

Why In 2025 We Still Have Dog Trainers Who Believe “Reinforcement Dog Training Doesn’t Work“ #297
10 snips Mar 12, 2025
Discover the truth behind the misconceptions of positive reinforcement in dog training. Learn about the biggest mistakes trainers make that lead to frustration. Dive into techniques like desensitization and counter-conditioning, essential for success. Hear relatable examples of training reactive dogs and handling distractions effectively. Explore why simply masking emotions with treats won't cut it and uncover the pitfalls of cookie-stuffing. Get ready to transform your dog's training journey with practical insights!
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Encore's Reactivity
- Susan Garrett's dog, Encore, was reactive to motion at six months old, despite game-based training.
- This raises questions about the effectiveness of positive reinforcement in certain situations.
Masking vs. Training
- Masking a dog's emotional state with high-value rewards isn't training.
- It's a temporary fix, not a solution to underlying issues.
Desensitization and Counter-Conditioning
- Desensitize your dog to triggers from a safe distance.
- Then counter-condition by associating the trigger with positive reinforcement.