Just Like Their Human Counterparts, Also Known as Kids, Dogs Get Bored Too!
An excellent way to curb their boredom and prevent them from using that pent-up energy for destructive activities is through dog training. And just like kids, dogs respond best to positive reinforcement.
Why Should You Use Reward-Based Training for Your Dog?
Reward-based dog training with dog treats can help you strengthen your bond and understanding of basic commands. Because dogs respond well to rewards (treats, but also praise, toys, petting, and anything else your dog loves), they are more willing to perform desired behaviors.
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior stated: “Evidence supports the use of reward-based methods for all dog training. AVSAB promotes interactions with animals based on compassion, respect, and scientific evidence. Based on these factors, reward-based learning offers the most advantages and the least harm to the welfare of the learner.”
You can start using reward-based dog training techniques immediately. Choose the reward you want to use and follow these simple guidelines!
Choose a Reward for Your Dog!
Think of something you like! Our dogs are the same in that they love delicious treats and fun dog toys. Luckily for you, these can be perfect rewards to use in dog training.
Our PB BombitasTM and PB ChicharronesTM are excellent dog treats for training! Crunchy on the outside with double peanut butter filling and low in calories, they can fit into your dog’s daily diet.
Does your dog respond better to toys? Great! Our Los CojonesTM are fun day and night! If you plan dog training sessions during the day, our red "cojone" ball is the perfect reward. And if you want to have a training session at night? The yellow "cojone" lights up on impact, so you don’t have to reschedule!
Use Short Commands
Long phrases are harder to say consistently and much harder for your dog to learn. That’s why the most common verbal cues or commands are one or two words: Sit, Stay, Down, Off, Up, Come, Closer, Leave It, Drop It, Look at Me.
Practice these commands and incorporate body movements to help your dog make the connection between the verbal cue and the behavior. An example is Sit. You can lure your dog with a treat in your hand and pass it over their head, encouraging them to tilt their head back to follow the treat. Once they are sitting, say the verbal command Sit and give them their reward!
Be Consistent
The best way to ensure your dog learns your commands and desired behaviors is through repetition and consistency. This means the whole family should use the same commands and body movement techniques so your dog understands the cues and acts the same way every time. This also means always giving a reward, especially when teaching a new command.
Will you always need to carry dog treats with you? Yes and no! At first, you will probably reward your dog every time they perform the command. Then, over time, you can reduce the rewards until you only give treats occasionally.
When to Reward Your Dog
Reinforcing correct behaviors comes down to timing! Once your dog has performed the desired behavior, for example, you asked them to sit and they sat at your feet, reward them immediately after. This helps your dog associate that the verbal cue means they need to sit to receive their treat!
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