Dog Training: Rewarding Your Dog - When & How Much?
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Dogs love to be appreciated! Just like us, when a job is performed well, we enjoy the approval and rewards of our peers or employers. But every dog is different in personality and this means that every dog needs a different type of reinforcement. Special tasty treats, playing in the backyard or a brisk walk are types of rewards that your little pal needs and really appreciates.
There are a variety of treats on the market and one of them is sure to be the preference of your dog. High-strung guys usually do better with a dry biscuit. But the finicky eater or one that is naturally retiring may prefer a bit of real meat or cheese. Rewarding your dog with Bil-Jac Soft & Chewy Liver Treats seems to work equally well on all dogs.
When your best friend is unable to predict which type of treat he will receive, he becomes much more enthusiastic about the entire affair. Variety is the spice of life and well he knows it. Most dogs love to play ball: fetching balls, chasing balls, chewing on balls. Playing is a good thing. Other dogs like the challenge of a pulling contest and some little guys even find tearing a great amusement. There are tons of rag toys to be found that will accommodate this need.
Very excitable or high-strung dogs will only become more excited at the thought of receiving a treat. And this is the last thing you want when training your dog. Try using the tactile method of rewarding him This simply means petting him in areas that he enjoys until he is calm and relaxed.
When your dog has accepted the fact that his new behavior is appreciated, you will be able to “fade out the treat.” This is a simple process that begins with combining a tactile reward with a food reward. Eventually, begin to reduce the number of food rewards he is given until you reach the point where he is rewarded by love and pats alone.
Above all, when you are rewarding your dog, remember to appreciate and enjoy his special personality. Each little guy is different and the reward system will have to be adjusted to his character. Have fun with him and remember, pleasing you really is the uppermost thought in his mind.
