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.
Episode Transcript
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!