We are talking about the number one most important thing in dog training. Actually, it's the one thing vital for all species. It is of course, reinforcement, and it is critical to understand for training all animals.
In the episode you’ll hear:
- Why there are times your dog might find something more reinforcing than food.
- Activities that your dog will find reinforcing.
- Reinforcers to avoid.
- How to grow the value of a reinforcer.
- Transfer of value.
- Reinforcement and dopamine release.
- How dogs predict patterns of reinforcement.
Raising and training my 3rd SDIT and she is more of a challenge than my first 2. I am a Boxer lover so that is what is all my SD’s have been. The 1st one was amazing and so easy to train, the 2nd one is only 6 yrs old and unfortunately I have to retire her because of her own medical issues. So my 3rd one is now 1 yr old. She has anxiety and does not like to be left home whenever I go somewhere. She also does not like the dogs across the street. They are a bunch of very vocal Pointers and each time we are in our yard they BARK loudly at us and she returns FIRE! However she is learning to love her name…and comes running when I call her. So thank you for your help.
I watched ‘Season of Nuances’ and I have joined’ Homeschool the Dog’ and I am making my way through these podcasts as well.
I am disabled and need the time to process and work with my girl. I also have a 14 yr old Cairn mix.
HI Ellen, Welcome to Home School the Dog! We’re so glad you and your girl are here 💛 It sounds like she’s already making great progress—coming to her name is a big win! Take all the time you need—we’re here to support both of you every step of the way. Sending a warm welcome to your Cairn mix too! (Julie – DogsThat Team)
We are so happy to have found Susan G. We have gone through many training sessions with our dogs but Susan’s training methods far exceed our expectations. She has helped us understand our dog so much better. It helps to get into the psyche of the dog. We enjoy her that much more. And the bonus is she is a much better behaved and happier dog. Thank you Susan.
The light bulb finally went off in my head after watching your wonderful podcast # 2, reinforcement. The main activity that all 6 dogs love is their morning walk in the park. Their excitement made me realize (Susan, YOU actually made me realize) I have to learn to transfer the value of their morning walks into something beneficial for my partner and I AND the dogs. I am on a journey (thanks to you!) to watch every podcast you have produced.
Thank you so much
These are great. Is there an index or list of these podcasts so I could pick and choose the order for my needs?
Hi! Thank you for sharing of your knowledge. Can you cite the research paper you talked about in regards to the dopamine? I’m that level of nerd, love to read it! Thank you!
Can you make a podcast about transferring value for different reinforcements.
Eg: increases toy value by using food
I am raising my first toy driven pup (4mo). I’m wondering about when/how to use tug for reinforcement vs food. At the momen she gets pretty excited when she’s offered a tug but might lose focus for the next thing.
Oh My Goodness! I love how you explain things. So down to earth and honest sincerity
I love your approach to dog training and hope to be able to follow through with following you. Your podcasts are really helpful. Keep up the great work!
Hi Susan!
I recently adopted a puppy mill survivor. She was the breeding female and is very scared and submissive. She won’t play with any toys and is only interested in ham as treats. A couple questions/topics I’d love to hear about are:
1. How do you work on her gaining confidence? Loud noises or quick movements usually result in her flattening and peeing.
2. Separation anxiety. She has become very attached to me and will bark and howl until I come home. Leaving the tv on and covering the crate with a towel hasn’t worked.
Great new medium. Hope to catch up and listen to all your Podcasts. Just packed with info. I just hope a lot of people tune in and learn. Thank you!
Reinforcement. We all work for our reinforcement; rewards, paycheques, holidays. Our dogs also need reinforcement to make good choices. Thanks for bringing these podcasts. I say, “Amen sista!” everytime I listen!