How Your Dog Really Learns
Does this sound familiar? Your dog jumps up, you say “no,” they stop, you reward them. Next time? They jump up again! You’re stuck in a pattern, and here’s why…
Understanding How Dogs Learn: The Habit Loop
Dogs learn through patterns and habits. Every time your dog performs a behaviour sequence, it becomes stronger. Even if that sequence includes a correction!
Let’s break it down:
1. Dog jumps up (unwanted behavior)
2. You correct (say “no”)
3. Dog stops
4. You reward
5. Pattern established!
🤔 What’s Really Happening?
Your dog has learned this sequence:
Jump up → Get attention (even negative) → Stop → Get reward
To them, it’s all one successful pattern!
The Game-Changing Solution
Instead of creating a correction-reward pattern, we need to:
1. Prevent the unwanted behaviour
2. Teach an alternative behaviour
3. Reward the alternative consistently
Real-Life Example:
Instead of: Jump up → “No” → Stop → Reward
Teach this: Approach → Sit → Reward
Breaking Old Habits, Building New Ones:
• Identify trigger moments (when does the behaviour usually happen?)
• Plan your alternative behaviour
• Set up practice scenarios
• Be consistent with the new pattern
• Reward generously
Remember: Every time your dog practices a behaviour – good or bad – they’re building a habit. Make sure you’re building the habits you want!
Quick Tips for Success:
✨ Don’t wait for the unwanted behavior
✨ Teach alternatives during calm moments
✨ Practice in different locations
✨ Stay consistent with your new pattern
✨ Celebrate small wins
The Key Takeaway:
Focus less on correcting unwanted behaviors and more on preventing them and teaching alternatives. Your dog will learn faster, and you’ll both be happier!
Want to understand your dog better, improve your training and strengthen your bond?
