What is Positive Reinforcement Training?

What Is Positive Reinforcement Training?

Let’s start by clearing up some common misconceptions around positive reinforcement training:

- “You just throw treats at the dog and hope for the best.”

- “You can only train with food.”

- “It’s a soft, fluffy method that doesn’t really work.”

- “If I use this method, I must not be a serious trainer.”

Positive reinforcement is often misunderstood and it sometimes gets unfair criticism. But I also think part of that comes from the actions of a few extreme voices in the force-free community, whose approaches don’t represent what most of us are about.

I’ve heard some wild suggestions from that extreme end, like:

- Hiding behind cars when your dog is reactive

- Using umbrellas to block off approaching dogs

- Wrapping your dog in metaphorical cotton wool, shielding them from any challenge or growth

So, what do I believe in?

- Yes, I use food. Why wouldn’t I, if it motivates the dog? (And no, food isn’t the only motivator—check out April’s Training Tips for more on that!)

- I reinforce the behaviours I want to see more of (clear communication matters!)

- I break things down into manageable steps, at the dog’s pace - especially important for nervous or reactive dogs.

- I never use pain, intimidation, or fear to train a dog.

Is it true that this method might take a little longer? Sometimes, yes. But what’s the cost of faster “obedience” that comes from coercion or fear?

Take a moment to really listen to your dog and build mutual trust, then the things you can achieve together are incredible.

Me and my 40kg German Shepherd, who's only lived with me for 3 months after being rehomed from an overseas protection dog kennels, are learning lots simply through positive reinforcement.

Breed isn’t an excuse for poor training methods!

Emma, Elmtree Dogs (BSc, MSc Animal Behaviour & Training)