Positive Outcomes

Why is ‘force-free’ dog training the most effective way to train your dog?

Benefits of force-free training

Using this science-based method not only builds a strong bond of trust between you and your dog but also ensures no physical or mental harm. Force-free training means training without pain, threats, intimidation, force, or coercion. In essence, force-free training methods employ positive reinforcement to encourage desirable behaviors. This approach requires patience, consistency, and a commitment to using repetition to help your dog understand what you want.

Prohibited methods in force-free training

It’s accomplished without the use of choke chains, pinch, prong or shock collars, physical manipulation to change their position, pushing or pulling them by the leash or collar, and kicking or hitting them with an object, a foot or a hand in a misguided effort to win their compliance.

What types of rewards can be used for positive reinforcement?

There are various types of rewards you can use, including food, treats, toys, play, and praise. While many dogs love food rewards (such as cheese or dog treats), some might prefer a game of fetch with a tennis ball as a reward for a job well done. You’ll quickly discover what excites your dog, and you can use THOSE preferences as motivators in their training.

How does consistency and routine help my dog to learn more quickly?

By providing dogs with consistent rules and predictable structure (for example, the routine to go outside to potty), they’re being taught to understand what’s expected of them. And…by promptly rewarding them for any desired behaviors, it greatly increases the likelihood of desired behaviors happening again and again!

A few tips

Ignoring Unwanted Behaviors

Ignoring unwanted behaviors is also an integral part of force-free training. For example, ignoring a dog’s persistent barking for attention lets him know that his behavior won’t get him either the attention or the reward he’s seeking.

Examples include turning and walking away when a dog barks while you are preparing his food. Once calm, the food is placed on the floor.

Rewarding Calm Behavior

Rewarding for calm behavior is a far faster learning tool than yelling at a dog to ‘Be quiet’. Catch GOOD behavior (what a concept!) means that you reward your dog for what they are doing right in the moment! As an example, if a dog is simply standing (not jumping) while stopping to talk to a friend during a walk, you can reward for calm behavior. It’s catching GOOD behavior in the moment – not waiting for unwanted behavior to happen. Here’s the science part: catching good behavior accelerates the dog’s understanding of what is desired.

Looking for a Force-free Trainer?

The Florida force-free veterinary behavior and trainers network offers clear and concise advice on what to look for in an instructor and lots more information on force free training.

Informational links

• Force Free Florida
• The Pet Professional Guild
• Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers
• International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants