Training with Science

Dogs, giraffes, and people all learn based on the same set of rules. It is called operant conditioning and it is not just one tool in a dog trainers toolbox it is the whole toolbox. I cannot tell you how often my clients get very confused by operant conditioning and how it applies to how all dogs learn. Operant conditioning is when an animal makes a choice and learns from the consequences of that choice. They either learn that their choice is associated with an unpleasant experience or a pleasant one. In other words, we all learn to avoid the bad stuff while getting access to the good stuff.

When our dogs jump on us, bark for attention, or sit before going outside they are asking the question “does this work to get me what I want?” How we answer that question depends on whether we want them to repeat these behaviors in the future or not. Understanding the quadrants as they apply to our dogs behavior is important but choosing how to apply them matters even more.

Punishment may seem like the quickest route to long-term behavioral change but do not be fooled. Just remember that time you got a ticket from a speed camera. Did you stop speeding all the time or only when you noticed cameras? Our dogs are no different. The pizza on the countertop may go untouched when you, as the punisher, are nearby, but the moment you leave the room all bets are off. However, if you instead spent your energy teaching your dog it is worthwhile to politely lay on a nearby bed he/she may just choose that in the future instead.

Each quadrant of operant conditioning has shaped our dogs behavior and our own. From speed cameras that change our driving to a promotion at work for a job well done. We already understand how punishment and reinforcement affect our behavior, now we need to consistently apply what we know to our dogs. With a large dose of patience, a solid understanding of our dogs favorite things, and precise timing we can teach our dogs anything.