Operant Conditioning In Dog Training: Explained With EXAMPLES!

Why is Operant Conditioning explained in such a confusing manner? It's not that hard! In this video, expert dog trainer Matt Covey breaks it down for you in simple terms with easy examples. In case you want it in fancier terms read below:
Operant conditioning is a type of learning in which behavior is strengthened or weakened by the consequences that follow it. The theory of Operant Conditioning was championed by B.F. Skinner. In the context of dog training, operant conditioning plays a crucial role in shaping a dog's behavior through reinforcement and punishment.
There are four main components in operant conditioning:
Positive Reinforcement:
Positive reinforcement involves presenting a desirable stimulus (reward) immediately after a behavior occurs, which increases the likelihood of that behavior being repeated in the future.
Example: Giving a treat or praise to a dog for sitting on command.
Negative Reinforcement:
Negative reinforcement involves the removal of an aversive stimulus when a desired behavior occurs, thereby increasing the likelihood of that behavior being repeated.
Example: Releasing tension on a leash when a dog stops pulling.
Positive Punishment:
Positive punishment involves presenting an aversive stimulus after an undesirable behavior, with the intention of decreasing the likelihood of that behavior occurring again.
Example: Pushing a dog away and saying no for jumping on people.
Negative Punishment:
Negative punishment involves removing a desirable stimulus after an undesirable behavior, aiming to decrease the likelihood of that behavior happening in the future.
Example: Ignoring a dog when it begs for attention to discourage the behavior.
Consistency, timing, and clarity are essential in operant conditioning. The reward or punishment should be given immediately after the behavior to strengthen the association between the behavior and its consequences. Additionally, it's important to be consistent in the application of reinforcement or punishment to avoid confusion for the dog.
Successful dog training often involves a combination of positive reinforcement for desired behaviors and appropriate use of consequences when necessary. This is generally called Balanced Dog Training.

[@user-lp7kr2gl1k]

We have three doberman, the youngest is a 15 month Euro male. He has been a barker ever since we got him at 12 weeks, he is our 6th doberman and we've never had a barker like this, although our previous have been American Dobes. This big guy barks for everything, to get out of a room, to get closer to me, to eat, to drink...you name it. He is barking at the other two dogs all the time for a toy or to play, just sooo much barking. I have tried redirecting him which does work sometimes but not 100%. We also use a spray bottle as well but he is still as barky as ever. I even find that my female who is almost three is now barking more too, mostly for attention from my husband and I. How do we get the barking to stop???

[@SuburbanK9DogTraining]

Hi Bonnie! I would suggest focusing on two main things. First, do a lot of calm training. I would use calm praise as the reward and no treats during training. Make your goal of each session to leave him much calmer than you started. If he doesn't know the place command you could add that to the routine. Here is a video on how to teach place: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jpyXinxsdrSDd9k Also, if he doesn't have a rock solid heel command I would put a lot of emphasis on it. Heel is inherently calming when done correctly. The second thing I would work on is proofing the word no. He needs to learn that no means something. You could leave a collar and short leash on when you are home and if he barks give a sharp no along with a tug on the leash. If he is too worked up you can use the heel command to calm him down. This works wonders once you get comfortable with it. Let me know what questions you have!

[@1915FadedBelly]

This made a lot of sense. Will give it a go on the crazed Poodle we came accross at 6 months old. Locked in a kennel for the first 6, no trainīng at all. She is very different from our Rotti and Staffy who have passed on. She's good on the lead, very smart. I can barely get her to sit for a treat unless there is only me there. There's a lot of negative behavious, always growling and worrying if I put different shoes on, change a jacket, etc. Anyway will try it out and let you know.

[@SuburbanK9DogTraining]

Sounds like she is keeping you busy! Definitely start with a solid heel command and teaching her to be calm on leash. This will make all of your follow up training much easier. When a dog is walking well, sit becomes fairly easy. If they are wild and pulling it can be difficult to get a good sit or down. What kind of collar do you use with her?

[@1915FadedBelly]

@@SuburbanK9DogTraining just a normal one. We tried a harness, not so good. Haven’t done a choker yet because she’s good on the lead.

[@SuburbanK9DogTraining]

Agreed on the harness. They are not our favorite training tool. If she is good on the lead then no need to make a collar change. That being said, if you do decide to change collars you may want to consider a martingale collar. They are similar to a normal cloth collar but make a little noise if you give a tug which can really help get the dogs attention. Sometimes we see dogs that don't pull on leash, but still haven't learned to focus or heel. It can be very helpful for them to learn how to turn left, turn right and get back into the heel position. This teaches them to think and listen and really does help with follow up training. Have fun with your dog and reach out with questions any time!

[@tinafernandez4138]

promo sm

[@kellyreigner2879]

So, if someone’s begins to pet a dog, and he growls, you should then withdraw your affection immediately and say NO!?

[@SuburbanK9DogTraining]

It really comes down to why the dog is growling. If it is fear based I would not tell them no. I would just stop petting and then call them to me to get petted. If it is your dog and they are grumpy and growling then telling them no is probably the right move.