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What is positive training?
Teacher’s
Pet uses Positive Reinforcement Teacher's Pet uses humane, positive reinforcement
training methods for its canine (and human!) students. The key to positive reinforcement
training is to provide rewards for the behaviors we like - and would like to see
again. 
To do this effectively, we start by getting to know the dogs. Each dog/handler
team is considered unique. Each team may be motivated (rewarded) by something
different. For the dogs, it all depends on what that particular dog finds rewarding.
For
most of our dogs, food is a powerful reward. That is, most dogs don't have to
be taught to like food. Because of that, we typically use small food treats to
reward most of the dogs in our program. So, if a dog sits instead of jumping on
new people, we give that dog a tasty food snack. After a number of repetitions,
our dogs start to figure out that it is a really good idea to sit when new people
come around. If I sit, good stuff happens. If I jump and bark, I don't get a snack.
I should choose to sit. 
This
type of training works extremely well in that it not only boosts the confidence
of insecure/shy dogs, but it also helps teach dogs to think for themselves without
fear of physical punishment or pain. And for many of the dogs in the Teacher's
Pet program, this is the first time they've been given a chance to think for themselves,
bond with their handlers and truly enjoy working and communicating with people.
It
helps our dogs learn to trust people again. For the young handlers in the program,
positive reinforcement training teaches them to be patient with the dogs and to
recognize/reward good behavior. Many of the dogs take "baby steps" toward
the end result and simply need some encouragement to get there. The handlers learn
the importance of noticing the good instead of focusing on the bad. Punishment/pain
is never part of the learning process. The Teacher's Pet dogs are - fortunately
- given a second chance to learn to bond with people through humane, positive
training methods. 
If
you're having trouble communicating with the canine in your life, or are considering
adopting a Teacher's Pet dog and would like to continue his or her training, contact
the Michigan Humane Society Pet Education Center at 248-650-1059
or log onto www.goodindog.org for more
information on their classes and other services.
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