Reward Based Training

Reward Based Training is built on the concept that you reward your dog for any correct action offered, following these key points -

• Reward Based Training pairs the correct action with something the dog perceives as good - food, treats, attention, or toys. This guides your dog to make the right choice.

• Aversive punishments, such as hitting, kicking, the use of shock collars, leash pops, or yelling at your dog, must be avoided, because these methods can increase stress and and frustration and may lead to aggressive responses.

• Not doing what you want is not dominance.  Dogs often "disobey" due to a communication breakdown - they just don't know what you want. Dogs aren’t trying to be the pack leader - they want to understand and communicate effectively with their owners.

• Dogs can’t speak, but humans can learn to read their pet’s body language and to base their pet’s perceptions on those cues. Reward Based Training bridges the communication gap and allows people and their dogs to understand each other.

Reward Based Training often uses high-value treats—chicken, steak, cheese, a tennis ball, or a belly rub. Once you learn what your dog values most, you will learn to communicate effectively with your dog using their treat of choice, you can guide them toward correct behaviors. They will learn much more quickly when you use rewarding methods instead of harsh punishments.  

• Builds a strong bond with your dog based on trust and respect
• Avoids increasing anxiety or aggression
• Uses fun, easy training methods 
• Provides mental stimulation, preventing boredom and problem behaviors
• Allows a dog to choose, without fear of repercussions
• Builds a dog’s confidence