Training Articles

Basic Training Principles

Almost everything you need to Know!
by Maureen Haggerty

• Dogs repeat behaviors that work for them.
  
  
• Reinforce behaviors you like.
  Make them fun and rewarding for your dog.
  
  
• Prevent behaviors you don’t like.
  Use management to prevent your dog from practicing these behaviors. If they are practiced, make sure the behavior is not rewarding, so it is not reinforced.
  
  
• Provide for your dog’s behavioral needs.
  Many behaviors we do not like are natural dog behaviors. Rather than suppress these behaviors, provide appropriate outlets for them. (See Keeping Your Dog Busy.)