05/06/2024
Training never happens in a vacuum. Our dogs are complex, sentient beings with their own distinct personalities, learning histories, likes, and dislikes. If there are skills we’d like them to learn, we can work together to reinforce behaviors to get us there, and sometimes that includes changing behaviors. When you work with a trainer, the plan will always include elements of managing behaviors, making sure the dog’s needs are met, and working on reinforcing behaviors to build skills.
Management: By setting up our dog's environment to prevent access to situations where they might engage in unwanted behaviors, we help them avoid rehearsing those behaviors. It's like child-proofing a house to keep little ones safe.
Enrichment: More than just puzzles and fancy stuffed toys! Enrichment means meeting your dog’s physical, mental, and emotional needs. This includes (but is not limited to) exercise, sensory experiences, plenty of mental stimulation, and adequate rest. Having unmet needs can be stressful for our pets, which makes learning difficult. Which brings us to…
Positive Reinforcement Training: Using treats, praise, and rewards to reinforce desired behaviors creates a strong bond between us and our furry companions. When we reinforce a behavior, we see it happen more often. This is the focus of positive reinforcement training.
When training, management, and enrichment are used together, they create an environment where the animal feels safe, engaged, and motivated to learn. This leads to more desirable behaviors (and fewer undesirable behaviors), improved welfare, and a stronger bond between you and your dog!
