Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Using Games As Positive Reinforcement When Training Your Dog

By Jennifer Dellows


Positive reinforcement has long been considered the most effective method for training canines. By rewarding desired behaviors, and ignoring those that are undesired, owners can ensure their pets willingly conform to their wishes. But most owners restrict rewards to food treats. While food will always be a prime motivator for dogs, it can also lead to weight problems if treats are given excessively.

Another form of positive reinforcement is time spent playing games with your pet. While he might choose food if given the chance, your canine also craves your attention. Combined with his near-childlike penchant for recreation, playing with him can be nearly as persuasive a training tool as treats.

This article will explain how to use games as a reward. We'll start by discussing how to set the stage with your pet, and how to blend training opportunities into the games you enjoy with him. We'll also provide a few creative ideas you can use when playing together.

Teach "Nothing In Life Is Free"

Many professional trainers recommend teaching your dog that "nothing in life is free." Canines learn that anything they want from their owners (e.g. food, a walk, attention, treats, etc.) comes at a price. In order to earn these things, the animal must work for them. That is, nothing is given for free.

In the context of using games as a reward for desired behaviors, owners must create the expectation in their pets that games follow compliance. That is, the animal must comply with a command before he is given an opportunity to play with his owner.

For example, suppose you normally play "catch" with your dog using the same tennis ball. Before long, he will begin to recognize the ball as a signal that you want to play catch with him. Tell him to "sit" and "stay" before doing so. As soon as he shows compliance, toss the ball.

If he fails to respond to your command, turn around and walk away from him (if he follows, do not address him). Allow a few minutes to pass, and try again. He will eventually realize that you'll play with him if he responds to your command.

Incorporating Training Into Games

While playing games with your dog, you'll have many opportunities to reinforce his obedience. Take advantage of them. These occasions can be valuable since they test your pet's compliance outside the scope of a "normal" training atmosphere.

For example, suppose you are playing fetch with your dog. If he displays resistance at letting the ball go, tell him to "drop it." Assuming he is familiar with this basic command, he'll realize that playtime is halted, and you expect him to comply. Once he does so, toss the ball again.

If your dog fails to respond correctly, turn around and walk in the opposite direction. He'll realize that playtime will only continue after he follows your instructions.

Ideas For Games To Play With Your Canine

There are several other games you can play with your canine in addition to fetch and catch. These activities provide opportunities to test and reward your pet's obedience while keeping his mind engaged.

For example, with your pet sitting in front of you, close your hands, and begin moving them near the sides of his head. Move them above and below his head, too. With your canine's attention drawn to your hands, open them suddenly and say, "go!" This prompts him to dash away to a selected marker, and return. Provide a treat and praise when he does so.

Another game you can play involves a hula hoop. Hold it upright with one end touching the ground, and instruct your dog to jump through. Praise him when he crosses over successfully. Then, raise the hoop a few inches from the ground, and do it again. This game is best played during short playtime sessions since your canine may otherwise tire or lose interest.

You can also teach your pet to play a version of basketball. Set a small bucket on the ground. Then, toss your dog a tennis ball. When he brings it back to you, point to the bucket, and say "drop it." Refrain from tossing the ball again until he drops the ball into the bucket.

These and other games may require training in order to teach your canine the "rules." But once he learns to play them, they can be used as rewards in the same way as food treats.




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