Dog Training 101
Tools of a Trainer
A trainer has many tools at their disposal when working with a dog, each to be applied with discretion and thoughtful care. While the definitions of some tools are under debate, there are three core concepts that all dog trainers understand and implement in one way or another. In addition to these three concepts, this page will include definitions and examples of common phrases in the dog training world. Enjoy a taste of what full programs hold, and learn something new in the process.
Motivation
Positive encouragement to help your pup reach their goal. As your pooch attempts to overcome the challenges faced in training, there may be times when they need some extra pep from you to achieve their goal. Different from praise, motivation is intended to let your pup know they're doing well and moving in the right direction; that the end goal is nearly reached.
Correction
An aversive to discourage a poor decision quickly and effectively. What this is varies widely between dogs, but it should always be the ultimate goal of training to involve as few corrections as necessary. A correction could be active, such as leash and collar feedback, or passive, such as removing a food bowl to discourage boisterous pre-dinner behavior. A correction should never cause physical harm to a dog.
Praise
The best tool in all of dog training. Usually given in the form of petting and verbal affirmation, praise is high-value positive reinforcement used to reward desired behaviors and affirm good habits. A powerful tool, praise should be worked into as many aspects of training as possible, but should not be given so freely as to devalue it. If your dog gets praise for simply existing, you have no way of giving them love for doing things that you find truly spectacular.
Dog Trainer Philosophy
Want to learn more on the thought process behind dog training? Check out our Philosophy page!
Trainer Terminology
Mark
A word or sound made by the trainer to indicate to the dog immediately when they've succeeded. "Yes" is a common verbal mark, while a clicker may be used as an effective non-verbal mark.
Lure
A reward, usually a treat, that is used to help a dog achieve certain body positions or behaviors. For example, a treat moving over most dogs' heads could "lure" them into a Sit.
Reward
An excellent addition to Marks that make repeating the success even more worthwhile to the dog. Rewards could include treats, extra pets, or a brief play with a toy; whatever your dog loves most.
Jackpot
An especially good reward reserved for the biggest achievements. A single treat would become 3-5 for a jackpot, and a tug on a rope could become a full play session. Exceptional rewards for exceptional decisions.
Trick
Fun to teach and practice, charming to show off, and sometimes even functional; tricks are always a great time, but are ultimately optional. Your pup can walk away from a trick performance anytime.
Command
Firm, but fair, commands are necessary for managing your pup's more impulsive behaviors, building habits that can earn them future praise, and maintaining safety for everyone. A reliable Sit could be the skill that stops your pup from running into the street.
Disengage
To intentionally "ignore" the dog you're working with. Though you can keep track of your dog with hearing or peripheral vision, proper disengagement depends on no direct eye contact, no side-eyeing, no touching, and turning your feet and torso offline from your pooch; regardless of your canine's insistence otherwise.
Avoidance
A technique employed by dogs and humans alike to minimize the effects of temptations. A dog may use avoidance when passing another dog on a walk, switching to the far side of their handler to stay farther from their distraction. Similarly, if told they can't yet have a treat put in front of them, some dogs may avert their gaze and choose to not even look at it.
Enrichment
Activities that stimulate an animal's mind to burn energy and give direction to natural instincts such as digging, foraging, sniffing, and problem-solving. Enrichment has been known to reduce boredom and destructive behaviors.
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