This document discusses reward-based and punishment-based dog training methods. It explains the four types of consequences in operant conditioning: positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, positive punishment, and negative punishment. While modern trainers prefer reward-based, positive training methods, all methods can be effective depending on the dog, situation, and handler. Rewards should be things the dog finds rewarding like treats, toys, or attention. Punishment should only be used carefully if a dog is willfully disobeying and understands what is being asked. Prevention and avoidance of situations that could lead to punishment is also important in training.
6. Positive punishment adds something to the situation to decrease the
chance of thebehaviourbeingexhibitedagain(forexample,growlingata
misbehavingdog).
12. Thereasonforthisdisparityisthatwhenadogistrainedthroughthe
prey drive, the training activates an instinctive, automatic sequence that
has to becompletedinorderforthedogtofeelsatisfied. Thatsequenceis:
search,eye-stalk,chase,grab-bite,andkillbite.Sowhenadogsearchesand
findsdrugsorexplosives,hefeelshehasn'tfinishedhisjobunlesshecanbite
something.Thisistheprimaryreasonhe'salwaysgiventhetoy.It'snotreallya
positivereinforcer.Ifitwereitwouldreducethereliabilityofthebehavior
overall.It'sameansofcompletingthepredatorysequenceforthedog.