|
|
food as reward in dog training |
| Puppy Training Tips > Food as Reward in Dog Training |
Food as Reward in Dog Training
How does food as reward in dog training stack up? When should it come into play? Is using food as a reward in dog training a good idea or not?|
|
Excellent question don't you think? And the answer, like many dog training philosophies, depends on who you ask. Sure treats are one way to reward a dog's good behavior. That's because dogs love food and will respond to food when being trained. But there's a downside. |
So bottom line is
Food as a reward in dog training good or bad?
Maybe it's better to ask "Is it a reward or is it bribery?"I mean what dog isn't going to jump thru hoops, even literally, to get that tasty tidbit?
By using food are you teaching the dog the desired behavior? Or conditioning him to expect a food reward for what he could be trained to do just as easily without the bribe.
And what to do when he does something wrong? Then what? Do you take away the treat? Not to mention what to do if he's not hungry that second.
Hopefully all the questions about food as a reward in dog training have gotten you thinking. It's not the slam dunk you may have thought.
This is why praise is the better choice. Plus a lot of love. It's also why praise may be the best possible positive reinforcement for proper behavior. Not food. Not treats.
If you insist on using food as a reward in dog training try it this way. Use food to help teach a new behavior. Giving praise and food upon successful completion. Then once the command or cue is learned, substiture praise for the edible tidbit. Only offering food every now and again to help imprint the learning.
|
Food as Reward in Dog Training |
|
|
All Rights Reserved 2004-2005