Tips on positive reinforcement training for dogs

We all enjoy learning new things and our dogs are no different.

With basic training, most dogs will not develop bad habits and become 'problem dogs' to you and your neighbours. Training will enrich your bond with your dog and make them a pleasure to be around.

Modern dog training methods uses the positive reward system a technique favoured by most animal trainers, and definitely owners who have used the system.

Here are a few tips before starting a training session:

It really does not matter whether you're dog is young or old, small or big; all dogs need to be trained.
Any training sessions should be no longer than 5 to 10 minutes as many dogs have short attention spans. The training sessions should be repeated regularly and performed in an area free from distractions, such as other dogs, cats, toys etc. Your dog needs to focus on you only.

Knowing what really motivates your dog is a really good starting point. It may not be food, it could be a toy or good old favourite tummy rub.
However most dogs are definitely motivated by food and food is how we initially trained our dogs. Both dogs do not rely or get food for their deeds of good behaviour now. They are very happy to be rewarded with other favourites as well.
When food is used as motivation and reward, it should be prepared in small pieces and be highly palatable. Ideally it should be a special treat the dogs really enjoys and only receives during training sessions. Small pieces of meat treats or liver treats are ideal.

For the training techniques to be successful the rewards must be given immediately after the dog has performed or responded correctly to your command, and ideally be backed up by words of praise such as “Good Dog’ and every now and then, a pat as well.
Do not forget to make sure that value of food intake rewarded as training treats, forms part of the dog’s normal total food intake otherwise you could end up dealing with a weight increase problem with your dog. This is why the reward treats should be very small.

Training should be enjoyable for both of you so praise and reward desired behaviour, ignore any negative behaviour. There is enough good evidence available that punishing your dog will probably teach him to be afraid of you.
Consistency and patience is essential during training sessions. If you’re not in a good mood, or feeling angry, frustrated, or just not feeling well, don’t do any training; wait until you are ready to do it. Dogs are sensitive to emotions and will sense your emotions and could misunderstand your instruction.
Just the same as when we talk to each other, look at your dog when giving a command and always use a happy friendly voice. Never yell as that may frighten or terrify the dog.
Make certain to use simple clear, concise commands which are agreed amongst all family members and don’t change them. If you mean “drop”, do not change it to “lie down” otherwise you will confuse your dog, or another family member use "down" expecting the same result, as it also will only confuse the dog.
Only when you are confident you dog has mastered what you have been teaching him, should you move on to something new.

If you feel that you would like external help to train or assist your training of your dog, there are puppy pre-schools and dog obedience clubs to choose from. Do your homework first and ask about the style of training they teach, to make sure it suits what you intend for your dog. There are still clubs that use the old punishment for unwanted behaviour techniques such as chock collars etc.