How to Train a Dog Using Positive Reinforcement

Dog training is an integral part of living together – only with the right, sensitive approach can you deepen your bond and understand each other perfectly, even without words. In recent years, so-called positive training, based on the joy of working, motivation and rewards, has been gaining popularity! In contrast, it rules out fear, stress and shouting, none of which are good for you or your dog. Why is “positive training” so popular with dog owners and dogs alike, and what makes it so successful? That’s what this article is all about, offering inspiration for raising your four-legged friend. So let’s get started!

Positive dog training – how did it begin, and what is the principle behind it?

Positive training, often referred to by dog owners as “positive training” for short, has its roots, somewhat unexpectedly, in training aquatic mammals. Trainers knew that they could not force these enormous animals to achieve their goals, but could do so through positive motivation and rewards for completing a task.

Because this approach proved so effective, it quickly caught on among dog owners, too. What are its basic principles, and what definitely has no place in positive training?

• Motivation – this is the key to success. You need to motivate your dog to perform the desired action, and a positive approach is the way to do it.
• Enjoyment of training – approach training with joy and a positive attitude; think of it as a great way to spend time together.
• Patience – this is absolutely essential when training a dog. Every dog is unique and needs time to understand what you are asking them to do.
• Rewards – praise, treats or a cuddle are an integral part of training.
• Fear – you should never make your dog afraid during training. Not only can this lead to psychological effects that may take years to address, but your dog will quickly lose the desire to learn new things and spend time with you.
• Stress – you and your dog should be calm and relaxed during training. Dogs are very good at picking up on your feelings, and stress never does any good. 
• Pressure – positive training has no place for any form of pressure, whether shouting, intimidation or even hitting. This approach will not only quickly distance you from your dog, but your dog will follow instructions out of fear rather than enjoyment (if at all).

Bear in mind that there are days when it’s better to skip training – whether you’re tired or frustrated after work and might unknowingly pass your stress on to your dog, or you notice that your canine companion simply isn’t in the mood. On days like these, don’t push it. Instead, enjoy a relaxing walk in nature that will do you both good, body and soul! 

🐶 Dingo TIP! A sturdy, reliable leash is useful during training and regular walks – and why not make it cheerful and fun, too? Just choose one of our softshell Dingo leashes. They’re water- and mud-resistant and will brighten your day

Classical vs. operant conditioning

Positive training can involve two different approaches: classical and operant conditioning.

Classical conditioning was made famous by the legendary physiologist and psychologist Ivan Pavlov, who observed dogs’ behavior and reactions to repeated stimuli. In essence, it is learned, automatic behavior in response to a specific stimulus. It is common not only in dogs, but in people too – we respond to various stimuli in learned ways. This method can be used to teach commands such as “sit” or “lie down”, which dogs learn by associating a word with a particular action.

The second approach is operant conditioning, in which a dog is rewarded or “punished” for an action they perform. In other words, they learn through the consequences that follow an action. For example, if a dog sits, they receive praise in the form of a treat. If they don’t come when called, a consequence follows (for example, being put on a leash, which limits their freedom to move around).

🐶 Dingo TIP! Want to feel comfortable on a walk or while training your dog? Browse our range of casual Dingo clothing! We have stylish pieces for women, men and children!  

Do you have a puppy, an adult dog or a senior? It’s never too late to start training!

When it comes to training, it’s worth debunking a widespread myth: “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks!” Just like people, dogs learn throughout their lives and take in the stimuli around them. Yes, if you have a puppy at home, training may well be easier. But you should never give up on older dogs (or those with a difficult past). With a sensitive approach, patience and positive motivation, you can gain a lifelong companion and kindred spirit!

Important – don’t confuse positive training with spoiling your dog!

It’s important to emphasize that positive training follows clear rules. Rewarding your dog for unwanted behavior is definitely not one of them, although many owners do just that, often without realizing it. In the end, this can have just as negative an effect on training as the shouting or pressure mentioned above. Owners often end up creating a major problem for themselves, and if their dog tends to be dominant, sooner or later they may try to take charge of the household and become the pack leader. That’s definitely not what you want.

It is therefore essential that all family members involved in training the dog follow the rules set in advance. This will make communication clear and consistent for your dog, and they won’t feel the need to take matters into their own paws. 

You can’t do without Dingo treats when training – they provide motivation and a tasty reward!

Since most dogs love food, treats play an indispensable role in positive training, and few people can imagine training a dog without them. To make sure you’re giving your canine companion high-quality, healthy rewards, choose from our range!

We’ve developed special Dingo training treats (6 or 8 mm in diameter) for your furry friends. They’re ideal for frequent rewarding, which is essential during training. So you don’t have to worry about overfeeding your dog – you can also switch between several tempting flavors, so your dog won’t get bored of them anytime soon. Dingo meatballs also make a tempting reward and are suitable for both small and larger dog breeds – trust us, they’ll be licking their chops!