Binary Feedback Puts the "B" in Balanced Dog Training

Here's a brief clip on punishment in training. The more information you provide in training, the clearer the message and the tighter the behavior becomes. (Think of playing the "hot and cold game" versus just playing the "hot OR cold game".) There is nothing in the little book of learning theory that says punishment has to be aversive and I believe it ought not be painful or frightening. I've come to realize that it is possible to punish a dog without any fear or pain, without even raising your voice. Maybe the problem is in the choice of words, perhaps we should call punishment a penalty instead.

This is just an hors d'oeurve of what's on the menu of my latest seminar series, check out my 2010/2011 appearance schedule if you'd like to take a bigger bite!