Today, let’s explore the three essential phases of dog training: the learning phase, the intermittent reward phase, and the no-reward phase.
Phase 1: The Learning Phase
During this phase, we focus on teaching our dog new tricks or commands. Starting with something easy and frequently used, like “sit,” is a great idea.
In the learning phase, we continuously reinforce the desired behavior. For “sit,” I ask my dog to sit, and as soon as his bottom touches the ground, I mark and reward him, every time. Regardless of how it looks or how long it takes, I reward the completion of the command. If he doesn’t sit, I simply repeat the command and wait for compliance. Depending on his performance, I may adjust the number of treats, but I always reward him once the command is completed. As his proficiency increases, I gradually introduce distractions, distance, and duration.
Phase 2: Intermittent Reward Phase
This phase keeps things interesting and helps your dog stay attentive during training. I start mixing it up by giving rewards sporadically instead of every time. I may also include more verbal praise, extra cuddles, or playtime.
Remember, consistency is key! Clear commands and expectations reinforce good behavior. If you’re not achieving the desired results during this phase, consider going back to the learning phase. Sometimes, it’s as simple as you’re asking for too much before offering rewards.
Phase 3: No Reward Phase
In this final phase, your dog becomes a pro at following commands without expecting treats every time. I may still offer treats randomly, keeping my pup on its toes! However, during this phase, my dog generally knows what’s expected, and treats are few and far between. After an exceptional training session or a competition, I may give a big jackpot reward, such as a bowl of food with something special mixed in or several handfuls of a particularly yummy treat.
No matter which phase of training you’re in, encourage your dog with verbal praise along the way. If they make a mistake, repeat the command or sequence. If they continue to struggle, go back a phase or ask for an easier task. It could also be a sign that they’re tired and need a break. That’s okay; take a break and try again later.
Remember to Practice Everywhere. The more you train in various settings, the more your dog will generalize their training skills.
Each dog is unique, so be patient and enjoy the process with your pup. Keep it positive, full of love, and you’ll both have a blast becoming an unbeatable team! Happy training!