Creating motivation using a reward system

[Marker]

Encourage motivation (drive) in your working dog using the reward your specific dog wants in training.

When training dogs we want to develop a deep rooted sense of motivation to complete the task we are training it to do. Many times we train a dog to do what is not possible for the handler to know if the dog is doing the task assigned. Training motivation in the dog gives the handler confidence in the dogs work.

Here are the three elements of a good reward system: 1. The dog gets its favourite reward 2. The dog gets praise 3. The dog gets to run around around and have fun.

1. When the dog has learned a new skill reward IMMEDIATELY after with a toy or treat of its choice. The toy or treat is chosen by the dog beforehand, whatever it chooses this is only given as a reward for completing its training, at no other times does the dog get this special toy or treat. This can be difficult if the dog is living in a house with other family members so it is important to ensure all members of the household follow this rule.

2. In combination with the treat IMMEDIATELY after the dog completes a task successfully the handler gives lots of praise and pets.

3. Use a crate or kennel. When not training keep the dog kenneled, it is the safest place for the dog, part of the reward system is letting the dog get out and do the training, daily short sessions are much better than infrequent long sessions. When the training is done for the day put the dog back in the crate for the trip home.

[Sharon]

Excellent advice. The word IMMEDIATELY is essential. Thanks.

[ninepointer]

Good stuff, Marker, about safe-guarding the efficacy of that high-value reward. Tell me, is the high-value reward reserved for training, or is also available in real-world situations in the field?
One of the best trained dogs I've ever met was a SAR dog.

[bellerivercrossbowhunter]

My lab will do anything for a treat! lol