A Beginner’s Guide to Positive Reinforcement Dog Training

• Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.

Positive reinforcement (also known as R+ or reward-based training) is one of the most reputable and effective ways to train dogs. It’s so effective that in 2021, the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) officially endorsed it for the training of all dogs. So how does it work?

Positive reinforcement training teaches dogs through a reward system. When a dog performs a desired skill or exhibits a wanted behavior, they are rewarded. Over time, the dog learns training cues and preferred behaviors thanks to their strong reinforcement history.

With help from professional dog trainer Caitlin Cruz, head dog trainer at Pupford, we review the key principles of R+ training, how to do it, and how and avoid common mistakes.

The Principles Behind Positive Reinforcement

Where did positive reinforcement training start? Most experts point to the research of psychologist B.F. Skinner and his work at Harvard in the 1930s and 1940s. While studying how positive and negative stimuli motivated pigeons and rats, he coined the term “operant conditioning” to describe how consequences influence future behavior.

The four quadrants of dog training

From Skinner’s operant conditioning research, the four-quadrant model of dog training emerged. In his system, “positive” and “negative” don’t mean “good” or “bad.” Positive just means adding something in, while negative means taking something away.

These are the four quadrants:

• Positive reinforcement (R+) works by giving your dog something they find rewarding—like treats, praise, or toys—to strengthen the likelihood that a behavior will happen again. Example: giving your dog a tasty piece of chicken after they sit on cue.
• Negative reinforcement (R-) means removing something your dog finds unpleasant once they’ve done what you want. Example: releasing the pressure of a prong collar once a dog stops pulling on the leash.
• Positive punishment (P+) means adding an aversive to get your dog to stop doing something, such as bopping them on the nose or jerking the leash when they bark.
• Negative punishment (P-) means removing something your dog wants until they’ve performed a desired behavior, like ignoring them until they’ve stopped jumping on you.

Why positive reinforcement training works

Out of the four quadrants, positive reinforcement is considered to be the most effective for dog training, says Cruz. That’s because dogs, just like people, are more likely to repeat a behavior that has a positive outcome rather than a negative one.

“For example, when you get a punch card at your favorite coffee shop, that is positive reinforcement,” explains Cruz. “They are encouraging you to keep coming back by giving you a free drink when you do. Similarly, if a dog knows that every time they come to you, they will get a reward, they will be more likely to continue to come when called.”

There’s also less chance of fallout. Research shows that using aversive training methods can harm both a dog’s physical and mental health.

Positive reinforcement training techniques

When using positive reinforcement training, there are three main techniques:

• Shaping involves breaking a behavior down into smaller steps and rewarding each one. For instance, when using shaping for crate training, you’d first reward for any interaction with the crate (a sniff, a paw in, sitting inside, etc.), before closing the door and adding time spent in it.
• Luring is what Patricia B. McConnell, an applied animal behaviorist, describes as showing an animal something it wants, usually food, and using it to encourage them to move in the desired way. For example, you can lure a dog to lie down by placing a treat in front of their nose and moving it to the ground.
• Capturing refers to reinforcing a behavior as it’s happening. For example, you can mark and reward every time your dog play bows, eventually adding a cue, to teach them the “take a bow” trick.

How To Use Positive Reinforcement Dog Training Effectively

Positive reinforcement training can be effective for dogs of all ages. You can even start puppies on an at-home training plan starting at around eight weeks. Here are some tips to get started.

Find the right reward

Food is a strong motivator for many dogs, but for training new skills, you’ll want to ensure you’re using something they find enticing. “For most dogs, the highest value items will be things with a strong scent, or foods they do not get very often,” says Cruz. “Think treats like string cheese, bacon, or hot dogs.”

Dogs who are play-driven might be more motivated by a special toy, while more handler-focused breeds may love getting praise. The bottom line is to get to know what your dog finds the most reinforcing and use that as their reward.

Mark and reward instantly

Timing is key for positive reinforcement training. As soon as your dog does the desired behavior, mark it with a click or an upbeat “yes!” and then immediately reward them.

“The marker is a way for you to communicate to your dog that they have performed the behavior you were looking for and allows you time to dispense the reward,” explains Cruz. “Think of using a marker like taking a picture. You want to mark (or press the shutter button) as soon as you see the behavior you want, not after.”

Use management

Set up your training environment so your dog is more likely to be successful. This could look like working on reactivity in a huge field that gives your dog plenty of space to move away from triggers.

Similarly, implementing management can help prevent your dog from rehearsing unwanted behaviors while you build new, preferred ones. For example, if you’re training your dog not to bark at every passerby, consider installing shades or adding window film until you’ve modified their behavior.

Keep sessions short and sweet

Don’t underestimate the power of short training sessions. Adding 5 or 10 minutes of training throughout the day can go a long way, keeping energy and enthusiasm strong. Always end sessions on a high note to keep your dog engaged and eager for the next session.

Train the dog in front of you

While it’s important to set goals, you’ll want to be open and adjust your training plan to the dog in front of you—meaning the pup you have today, in this very moment. This flexibility often means letting go of expectations, which can be incredibly difficult but worth it in the long run. For instance, if your original goal was to train your dog to be your hiking buddy, but they’re leash reactive, you’ll want to address their big feelings on walks first.

Make training fun

Keep sessions fun by incorporating games and playtime. You’ll get the best results by making it a positive experience. If you or your dog are feeling anxious, frustrated, or bored, take it as a sign to stop the session and try again another time when everyone is feeling more up to it.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

If your dog isn’t making progress in their training journey, it’s time to take a step back and assess where things went wrong. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when it comes to positive reinforcement dog training.

Moving too fast

Every dog learns at their own pace; some may pick things up quickly, while others may require more patience. Try to avoid advancing too quickly or putting your dog in more difficult situations before they’re ready.

Remember: Training is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s also not a linear path, and there will likely be regressions, even as your dog progresses overall.

Using low-value treats for hard tasks

If the treat is one that your dog eats regularly, your dog may be less motivated to stay focused throughout training. Instead, consider using a high-value treat like small pieces of hot dog or cheese, especially if you’re working on something particularly challenging. Remember, the bigger the ask, the bigger the reward should be.

Poisoning cues

When you give a cue, it’s important to say it only once and then wait, rather than repeating it over and over again.

“If you feel the need to repeat yourself, it likely means the behavior has not been reinforced enough, and the dog doesn’t understand what you’re asking, or they’re in an environment too distracting for their reinforcement history to kick in and encourage them to perform the behavior,” Cruz explains.

Not asking for help

If you’re struggling with training, remember to take it easy on yourself and your dog. Consider looping in a professional dog trainer near you for a customized training plan tailored to your dog’s unique needs.

When you get discouraged, remember you’re on the best path, as positive reinforcement methods are one of the most humane and effective ways to train your dog. Plus, it’s a win-win for you and your pet—it’s a natural way to increase your bond while motivating your dog to earn what they crave most—treats, and you!