21/05/2022
As a trainer, I use all 4 quadrants of operant conditioning. This makes me a balanced trainer. This doesn’t mean I only use tools like prong collars. Every dog needs a base that is using positive methods. And so every dog I work with I will use positive based methods first. After that I will work with the individual dog and owner to see what they are comfortable with and what will work for the dog.
The ’negative’ parts of the operant conditioning are uncomfortable for the dog- making the action undesirable by the dog. Meaning it’s less likely to repeat that action. Mainly used for changing behaviours or habits the dog has. Like a dog who pulls on a leash may require a corrections to keep some slack on a leash
The ‘positive’ parts of the operant conditioning teach a dog to perform an action that is desired. Like teaching a dog to sit, you lure into position with treats and then reward when the dog performs that action. Or luring a dog into position with treats to the heel position which will help leash pulling
You cannot correct a dog for a behaviour it didn’t perform if it doesn’t know the behaviour you desire. If you ask a dog to sit, that you never taught how to sit, and correct it (scolding, withholding a reward, correction with prong or ecollar, etc) and expect it to understand. Or put a prong on a dog and take it for a walk and expect it to stop pulling. The dog must be taught pressure on prong = need to slow down/ lessen the tension on leash. And that has to be taught before you leave the house with a new tool. Including a martingale, slip lead, or even head collar.
