Jess Trains Dogs is Central Ohio’s premier resource for all things dog training.
04/01/2025
Happy Monday and second day of understanding your dogs behavior. Today we will be talking about variable reinforcement. Variable reinforcement is one of the most effective ways to strengthen behaviors in dog training because it keeps dogs motivated and engaged while reinforcing desired actions more reliably over time.
The Definition:
Variable reinforcement means rewarding a behavior intermittently rather than every single time it occurs. Instead of giving a treat every time a dog sits, for example, you might reward it sometimes but not always, and you vary the pattern in an unpredictable way.
Why it works:
Increases Persistence: Dogs become more likely to continue performing the behavior because they don’t know when the next reward will come. This mimics natural reinforcement patterns (like hunting or foraging), making the behavior more resilient.
Prevents Extinction: If a dog always receives a reward and then suddenly stops getting it, the behavior may weaken. However, if a behavior is already conditioned through variable reinforcement, the dog is less likely to stop performing it even when rewards are less frequent.
Reduces Dependence on Rewards: Dogs trained with continuous reinforcement (treat every time) may only perform the behavior when they see a treat. Variable reinforcement helps dogs respond even when they don’t see an immediate reward.
Enhances Focus and Engagement: Since the reward is unpredictable, dogs stay more engaged, paying closer attention in anticipation of the possibility of a reward.
How to Use It Effectively:
Start with Continuous Reinforcement: When teaching a new behavior, reward every time until the dog understands the command.
Transition Gradually: Once the dog is reliably performing the behavior, start rewarding only some of the time.
Use Different Rewards: Instead of only treats, mix in verbal praise, toys, or playtime.
Keep the Schedule Unpredictable: Avoid patterns (like every third sit) so the dog doesn’t anticipate and stop trying when they expect no reward.
Variable reinforcement is the principle behind why behaviors like begging or chasing squirrels persist—dogs don’t always get a reward (food or the chase), but sometimes they do, which keeps them trying! When used correctly in training, it creates strong, reliable behaviors
I offer my clients a greater understanding of why our dogs perform behaviors and how to make sure they continue to do so. I would love to help you help your dog!
