Description

In this episode, we'll discuss reinforcement. There are many misconceptions on the internet, YouTube, etc., about reinforcement. Especially positive reinforcement is advocated as the singularly required approach for everything around dogs. Instead of adding to the opinion pile, I want to provide some context on the complexity of reinforcement and discuss some of the fundamentals that are often ignored. Reinforcement is essential, but it is important to understand where it fits and doesn't in the overall picture of dog training. Our discussion includes:

• What is Reinforcement?
• Examples of Reinforcement
• Underutilized Reinforcers: Scent, Chase, Locations, People, Activities, etc.
• The Premack Principle and Deprivation
• Reinforcement Varies by Dog and Circumstance
• Primary and Secondary Reinforcers
• Competing Reinforcers
• Positive and Negative Reinforcement
• Reinforcement in the Brain
• The Limits of Reinforcement
• Positive and Negative Reinforcement Can't be Separated
• Differential Reinforcement (DRI, DRA, DRO, DRL)
  • DRI: Differential Reinforcement of Incompatible Behaviors
  • DRA: Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behaviors
  • DRO: Differential Reinforcement of Other Behaviors
  • DRL: Differential Reinforcement of Low Rate of Responding

Visit the Podcast Episode Page for additional content and a list of episode references.

Buy Ralf's book If Your Dog Could Talk - Understand Your Dog Like Never Before (5th Edition) on Amazon.