7. Reward Based Training

Emphasize positive reinforcement when training your pet.

Emphasize positive reinforcement.

Training with rewards is a form of non-aversive training with an emphasis on positive reinforcement. Your pet is rewarded for behavior you want and ignored if the behavior you request is not given.

Consistency is the key.

First, teach your pet what you are asking for. If you want them to sit or lay down, you must show them what that means. One of the easiest ways to teach them is by using a high value treat as a lure, like a small slice of hotdog, small piece of cheese or meat, etc. This will get their attention quickly.

For sitting, when you hold the treat between your fingers and then in front of your pet’s nose, move your hand over the top of their head slowly so their nose will follow it. This most often makes them sit. Try not to touch your pet but guide them into the position you want with the treat.

It works the same for the down position.

Place the treat in front of their nose and slowly move it toward the floor and then slide it about six inches along the floor, in front of your pet. Many times they will follow it but not lay down immediately. If you continue to hold it on the floor, most often they will nose it, paw at it and look at you confused. If you encourage them, they will usually lay down just out of exasperation! As soon as their elbows hit the floor you release the treat and praise them for figuring it out.

Repeat the steps right away and have them down 9 – 10 times more to help them understand what actions produce the reward.

You will not cause your pet to become treat dependent unless that is the only reward they receive. Varying rewards keeps them interested. Once your pet has learned what sit, down, etc., you should only ask them once. If they do not comply, you withhold the reward and walk away.

Be sure to use their name first to get their attention and then say sit, down, etc.

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