Why We Prefer The Positive Reinforcement Training Model

Here at the Humane Society, we believe strongly in the positive reinforcement training model.

What is Positive Reinforcement Training?

Positive reinforcement training uses a reward (treats, toys, praise, or other rewards) for desired behaviours.  Essentially, a dog learns that good things happen when they do something you like.

Positive reinforcement teaching techniques use non-confrontational methods to work a dog’s brain.  Things like rewarding positive behaviour, lessening a dog’s anger or frustration, and establishing routines and training actions that are incompatible with negative behaviour, all while enabling a dog to feel good.

Because the reward makes them likely to repeat the behaviour, positive reinforcement is one of the most powerful tools for shaping or changing behaviours overall.

Watch a short video about positive reinforcement training from Positively by Victoria Stilwell:

Watch Here

Why do we believe in this model?

The more heavy-handed approaches used previously were believed to achieve obedience in dogs.  However, as science has evolved, so has our research and understanding of behaviour in companion animals.  Modern science has definitely shown that positive reinforcement training is the most powerful tool for shaping or changing a dog’s behaviour.

Want to read more about positive reinforcement training?  Check out these resources!

• Positive reinforcement training – Humane Society of the United States 
• Positively – Victoria Stilwell 
• Research article about training methods and tools – BC SPCA
• Educational Resources – recommended by Delightful Dogs