Obedience schools mainly use positive reinforcement to train dogs. Some schools use this method exclusively, while others use correction along with positive reinforcement. One must choose a training method based on the personality of your dog. The temperament of dogs varies from one breed to another. Even dogs that belong to the same breed have different personalities. Although all training methods have the same basic commands, one method may be more suitable for your dog than the others. For example, Pit Bull training needs both corrective and positive reinforcement, while timid Yorkies don’t respond well to corrective techniques.
These are the main methods of training dogs:
Traditional Formation:
The origin of the modern version of traditional training dates back to the 1950s. This technique uses physical correction to train a dog. For example, if he asks your pet to sit, but he remains standing, he can gently tug on his collar. You should reward him when he completes a job well by saying encouraging things like “Good dog.” Many modern trainers think that this technique is outdated. However, some dog breeds like Pit Bulls respond well to this method. Pit Bull does not respond to positive reinforcement training.
Clicker Training:
Clicker training is a popular teaching method in recent times. You can use the technique for anything like giving basic commands, solving behavior problems like excessive barking, or potty training. The principle behind this technique is that dogs learn best from “operant conditioning.” In operant conditioning, animals learn from their environment and respond more to positive consequences than negative ones. Clicker training is purely positive reinforcement training. The clicker shows your pet what he is doing correctly. The method is very popular because it is gentle and provides a pleasant experience for you and your dog. Many schools use this teaching technique. Such schools often offer trained dogs for sale.
Reward Training:
Reward training is also a method of positive reinforcement. However, there is no clicker here, but some kind of reward. The reward is anything your dog likes, food or his favorite toy. While giving the treat, praise your pet in a high-pitched, encouraging voice. This method increases enthusiasm in both you and your pet.
Whispering Dog:
This method is very useful for training some dogs. The basis of this method is the understanding and connection between you and your pet. In this technique, you need to understand your pet’s body language and train it using your body language. The method implies correction, but you need to decide the correction according to the behavior of your pet. For example, if your dog is becoming aggressive towards another, you can correct it by placing a clawed hand on the dog’s neck. This is similar to what mother dogs in the wild do in such a situation. You have to study canine behavior to apply this technique. Create a very strong bond between you and your dog.
These are the commonly used methods to guide dogs. You can train dogs for many jobs. Schools that offer guard dog training often have facilities to house dogs.