Training Without Conflict Podcast Episode 64: Variable Reinforcement is a LIE
Sep 10, 2025
What if the slot machine analogy in dog training is misleading? Discover why continuous reinforcement can be more effective than variable reinforcement. Learn how extinction bursts can actually enhance behaviors and understand barking and whining as feedback, not disobedience. This discussion challenges conventional wisdom, emphasizing the importance of clarity, joy, and connection in training. It's a fresh perspective for serious dog trainers eager to rethink their approach.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Reinforcement Schedules Aren't Just Slots
- Reinforcement schedules include continuous, fixed ratio, variable ratio, fixed interval, and variable interval.
- Trainers mostly use continuous for teaching and variable to maintain behaviors, but patterns can form unintentionally.
Persistence Is More Than Random Paychecks
- Variable schedules can make behavior persist, but randomness alone doesn't create durable behavior.
- True durability comes when the dog enjoys and forms a habit around the behavior.
Use Continuous Reward To Raise Criteria
- Use continuous reinforcement to sharpen and raise criteria during skill development.
- Reward every improvement to increase distance, speed, and precision in actions like sends and heeling.