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POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT DOG TRAINING
How positive training methods foster a stronger bond and build trust between the dog and owner.
Idog training. Positive reinforcement n the 1980s, we saw the beginning of a major shift in the basic principles of techniques began to gain widespread popularity. These methodologies utilize science-based learning theory centered on reward-based reinforcers. Positive dog training was propelled forward by histor ically significant trainers and behavior ists such as Karen Pryor, who popularized clicker training, and Ian Dunbar, who further connected the study of animal behavior and science with practical dog training. The revolutionary trend toward positive training includes clicker training, food-based rewards, and a concentration on reward-based learning versus punish ment, or aversive-based learning. From the 1980s forward, positive reinforce ment dog training has been gaining popu larity among trainers and dog owners. Today, you can still find dog trainers who work outside of the principles of positive reinforcement training. However, with the large amount of research now available, the number of trainers who utilize positive training overwhelmingly outnumber those who do not.
Providing a More Positive Training Option Dog owners have likely embraced posi tive training over the previously popular aversive techniques because it provides an experience that overwhelmingly feels more comfortable. However, the reasons for the growth and popularity of this style of dog training go far beyond the effects on humans. Extensive research supports the success and benefits of this type of training. Studies show that positive training creates a low-stress learning environ ment for the dog and builds a better bond between the dog and owner. It also supports quality training results and stronger long-term learning. Finally, dogs trained using positive training versus aversive techniques are less likely to develop unwanted behaviors.
Creating a Strong Bond A strong bond that gives the dog a feeling of trust and safety is important for a pro ductive, low-stress training environment. A study done by Stephanie Deldolle and Florence Gaunet at the University of Paris Nord shows that dogs taught using positive reinforcement show increased attentive ness toward their owners. An increased connection between dogs and handlers is an indicator of a stronger bond. The study also concludes that training with negative reinforcement has a negative effect on the relationship between humans and dogs.
Comparing Techniques It seems a reasonable conclusion that a less stressful learning environment will make the training experience more positive and therefore more productive. A more recent study from the University of Porto looks at a large group of compan ion dogs. There were dogs trained with positive training and dogs trained using aversive techniques. Findings indicate that dogs trained with aversive methods show more stress. In contrast, the dogs in the positive group are more relaxed and excited during training sessions. The study concludes that dogs trained with reward methods have more secure attachments to their owners. Today, positive reinforcement training is recognized as a highly effective training method. While aversive techniques can also be effective, positive training shows at least equal, and often better results, with less stress and potential harm to the dog. In addition, these methods have strong long-term results. The American Veteri nary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) published a position statement on dog training in 2021, citing that studies indicate reward-based training is highly effective, and there are some studies that show it to be more effective than aversion methods. This position statement further
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