While reward training is commonly viewed as the most current style of dog training, it is actually a lot older than most other methods of dog training. It is likely that the reward training method has been in use since dogs were domesticated thousands of years ago. Early humans likely used some unofficial type of reward training when refining the wolf pups that ultimately became domesticated dogs.
A lot of the ideas about current methods of reward training go back several decades. But what we know as reward training today has only enjoyed its recognition for the past 10 or so years.
Most reward training proponents are not so eager about other methods of dog training, like the leash and collar style. It is likely, though, that the best approach to training your dog will be a mixture of leash and collar training with reward training.
Additionally, a certain training style might work great for one particular dog, but not for another. Some dogs who are not motivated by reward training but do well with the leash/collar method, and other dogs respond well to reward training while leash/collar training does not work at all. Fortunately, the majority of dogs fall somewhere in between.
One of the more popular methods of reward training currently is clicker training. While clicker training does not work for every dog, it can still be a highly useful method of training dogs. The way clicker training works is by teaching to associate a clicking sound with a positive reinforcement, such as a treat. When the dog does something well, the trainer reacts by clicking the clicker, then immediately offering the dog a treat. In time, the dog learns to react to the clicker only.
In reward training the most common type of treat is a food reward. Almost always, complex tricks or behaviors can only be taught using this type of reinforcement. In fact, trainers who train dogs for movies and television use food-based reward training almost totally.
Reward training is used for all types of dog training, including for police and military work. The majority of training in scent detection and tracking utilize a kind of reward training. You can also use reward training in teaching the basic dog training commands.
In reward training a lure is frequently employed to entice the dog into a desired position or stance. The lure helps to convince the dog to perform the sought after behavior of his own volition.
Getting the dog to carry out a behavior without being handled is important. The point of the training, in fact, is to get the dog to execute a behavior without any handling by the trainer.
Once the dog has carried out the commanded behavior, he is rewarded with a positive reinforcement, such as a food treat. Treats are often used in order to reinforce good behaviors, but other positive reinforcements, such as verbal praise, can also be used for reinforcement.
It is important that a reward-trained dog also be a reliable dog. If a dog is trained to do a job, such as police work or drug detection, outside distractions are to be expected. Therefore it is important to train the dog to work and be focused around diversions, as well as to socialize him with other animals and people.
Sometimes dog trainers only train the dog inside the house or back yard, only when the owner is there, free of distractions. It is important to take the dog outside of his comfort zone and introduced to new people and situations.
It is also important that the dog be trained to pay attention to the handler always. When the owner has the complete attention of the dog, he has complete control of the dog. When executed correctly, reward training is a very effective training method that helps to earn the respect and the attention of the dog.
2008年8月28日星期四
2008年8月22日星期五
Who wants to be the next dog owner to quickly train his new puppy to "go toilet" outside the house in just 3 easy steps
As you know when you come home with your new dog you will need to train him to behave in certain ways that will fit in with you and your family. Almost all dog owners realize on Day One that toilet training is the first lesson their dog needs to learn.
Be assured, this is easy! It's a simple task. If you know what to do, and you can be consistent, gentle and firm with your dog, you can teach him in just three simple steps.
Step one in showing your pup to do his "business" outside in an open area is to decide exactly where outside you want him to "go". There's plenty of choice, and this is the problem. You must simply pick one. Many new dog owners find that a quiet place out in the garden is an ideal spot. Lawns or grassed areas make good toilet places, of course. Under a small tree, or inside a convenient bush, could work very well. From the many places available on your property, select one. This will be the area he uses for toilet - at least when you're training him. Be confident and certain about this, and don't switch to somewhere else, which will confuse him.
Next thing you must do is watch your dog after he's eaten. Most dogs will behave in a peculiar way when they are about to "go" and you have to know your pup's behavior. Your dog might stand dead still. Perhaps he will look directly and intensely at you. Young puppies often strain and quiver . Whatever ... there will be signs of something happening. When you think your dog is about to eliminate pick him up and move quickly outside to your "potty area".
Make sure you carry him out by the same route each time. When this happens enough times he will realize that you are teaching him to associate his need to "go" with "outside".
When you get to the toilet area stay with your dog and just as he begins to eliminate say a word. The dog will associate that word with doing his business, and soon will only eliminate when you give him permission by saying that word. Choose your word wisely, though. It needs to be a word you can use in a public place. Sometimes when you are out with other people your dog will show signs of wanting to go. He will expect you to say your special word, so make it something unembarrassing.
As soon as he has "gone", finish off this training with a reward. Some people use a small amount of food for this. Dog owners might get the same effect with a 'click!' Whatever you choose, get a reward that will assure your dog that he is a wonderful fellow and that you a very pleased with him.
Just make these three simple steps and your dog will learn that the place to do his business is not on your new carpet!
Be assured, this is easy! It's a simple task. If you know what to do, and you can be consistent, gentle and firm with your dog, you can teach him in just three simple steps.
Step one in showing your pup to do his "business" outside in an open area is to decide exactly where outside you want him to "go". There's plenty of choice, and this is the problem. You must simply pick one. Many new dog owners find that a quiet place out in the garden is an ideal spot. Lawns or grassed areas make good toilet places, of course. Under a small tree, or inside a convenient bush, could work very well. From the many places available on your property, select one. This will be the area he uses for toilet - at least when you're training him. Be confident and certain about this, and don't switch to somewhere else, which will confuse him.
Next thing you must do is watch your dog after he's eaten. Most dogs will behave in a peculiar way when they are about to "go" and you have to know your pup's behavior. Your dog might stand dead still. Perhaps he will look directly and intensely at you. Young puppies often strain and quiver . Whatever ... there will be signs of something happening. When you think your dog is about to eliminate pick him up and move quickly outside to your "potty area".
Make sure you carry him out by the same route each time. When this happens enough times he will realize that you are teaching him to associate his need to "go" with "outside".
When you get to the toilet area stay with your dog and just as he begins to eliminate say a word. The dog will associate that word with doing his business, and soon will only eliminate when you give him permission by saying that word. Choose your word wisely, though. It needs to be a word you can use in a public place. Sometimes when you are out with other people your dog will show signs of wanting to go. He will expect you to say your special word, so make it something unembarrassing.
As soon as he has "gone", finish off this training with a reward. Some people use a small amount of food for this. Dog owners might get the same effect with a 'click!' Whatever you choose, get a reward that will assure your dog that he is a wonderful fellow and that you a very pleased with him.
Just make these three simple steps and your dog will learn that the place to do his business is not on your new carpet!
2008年8月14日星期四
Dog Training - Socializing Your Dog
Dogs, just like humans, display a wide range of tolerance for others. Some are immediately friendly with every new dog, mouse or bird. Others are forever unfriendly to even the opposite sex of their own breed. Considering that dogs are by nature territorial, the diversity is odd, but there it is.
Naturally, animal lovers like to have more than one dog around and sometimes several breeds and other pets. Guaranteeing that furniture stays intact and bodies unscathed can be somewhat of a challenge. And don't forget about your neighbor's pets or nearby critters that wander into your dog's territory where your yard, not to mention your sanity, can be at a very real risk.
The initial step is to begin the process of socializing your dog as early as feasible. Just like young children, puppies are much more accepting of strangers. Since they haven't yet distinguished between friend and enemy, everything is a new experience to be explored rather than alarmed by or chased.
If you just have one dog, expose the puppy early on to other dogs and people. Get them comfortable with being touched, especially between the toes, in the ears and near the eyes. Along with impact on interaction with animals, that will make visits to the vet and outings a lot easier.
Dogs, typically, sniff everything. When they're about to interact with another, manage them until you are confident they won't chase or fight, and only then let them explore the other dog, cat or animal.
If the dog displays a tendency to jump or bite, put up with it to the point someone is going to get injured. It's normal for dogs to rough house, knock one another over and even lightly bite legs and necks. Stay nearby and be prepared to grab them, if necessary. Leather gloves may be useful during these first attempts.
If your dog continually barks, distract them with a treat, a toy or a sharp command. If they still refuse to stop pulling or barking after a few attempts at control, try another day. What works will differ widely depending on the individual dog and some will simply never put up with others (just like some humans we all know). You'll figure out over time what works and what doesn't as you observe your dog interacting with others.
It might be necessary to put the dog on its back, then hold it down with a firm hand on the chest. In more difficult cases a bark or shout into the face of the dog is helpful. Yes, you will look like a nut to others, but this technique is even employed by the Monks of New Skeet. The brothers of this upper New York State religious order are world-renown for their German Shepherd raising practices.
Rescued or animal shelter dogs usually need extra patience when socializing. These animals have often been abused by people or injured by other dogs. Those experiences naturally many times lead to aggression or fear. Remarkable transformations can take place even in these dogs, however. After continual exposure they often learn to at least tolerate other people and animals.
Start socializing early, expose for short intervals increasing to longer ones, repeat as needed. In each instance, be prepared to physically and mentally control the dog.
Naturally, animal lovers like to have more than one dog around and sometimes several breeds and other pets. Guaranteeing that furniture stays intact and bodies unscathed can be somewhat of a challenge. And don't forget about your neighbor's pets or nearby critters that wander into your dog's territory where your yard, not to mention your sanity, can be at a very real risk.
The initial step is to begin the process of socializing your dog as early as feasible. Just like young children, puppies are much more accepting of strangers. Since they haven't yet distinguished between friend and enemy, everything is a new experience to be explored rather than alarmed by or chased.
If you just have one dog, expose the puppy early on to other dogs and people. Get them comfortable with being touched, especially between the toes, in the ears and near the eyes. Along with impact on interaction with animals, that will make visits to the vet and outings a lot easier.
Dogs, typically, sniff everything. When they're about to interact with another, manage them until you are confident they won't chase or fight, and only then let them explore the other dog, cat or animal.
If the dog displays a tendency to jump or bite, put up with it to the point someone is going to get injured. It's normal for dogs to rough house, knock one another over and even lightly bite legs and necks. Stay nearby and be prepared to grab them, if necessary. Leather gloves may be useful during these first attempts.
If your dog continually barks, distract them with a treat, a toy or a sharp command. If they still refuse to stop pulling or barking after a few attempts at control, try another day. What works will differ widely depending on the individual dog and some will simply never put up with others (just like some humans we all know). You'll figure out over time what works and what doesn't as you observe your dog interacting with others.
It might be necessary to put the dog on its back, then hold it down with a firm hand on the chest. In more difficult cases a bark or shout into the face of the dog is helpful. Yes, you will look like a nut to others, but this technique is even employed by the Monks of New Skeet. The brothers of this upper New York State religious order are world-renown for their German Shepherd raising practices.
Rescued or animal shelter dogs usually need extra patience when socializing. These animals have often been abused by people or injured by other dogs. Those experiences naturally many times lead to aggression or fear. Remarkable transformations can take place even in these dogs, however. After continual exposure they often learn to at least tolerate other people and animals.
Start socializing early, expose for short intervals increasing to longer ones, repeat as needed. In each instance, be prepared to physically and mentally control the dog.
2008年8月9日星期六
Top 5 Characteristics of Successful Dog Training Techniques
When it comes to dog training, there are several factors that will affect whether or not your approach is successful. In addition to being comfortable with the environment and the person handling the training, your puppy or dog must become familiar with a schedule. As the trainer, you must consider a number of factors that will help you to provide the proper training that your dog needs to get him/her started on the road to discipline and good behavior.
Convenience. Although some dogs can be professionally trained as rescue or medical respondents, the majority of pet owners simply want their animals to respond to common commands. Therefore, a convenient and easy to understand approach at dog training will be the most effective. Most pets respond to positive reinforcement, which involves rewarding them with a treat, praise and strokes when they have done something right. If a training program is too complicated, it may require the help of a professional trainer. For standard training, a convenient approach is more likely to produce results.
Cost. When you add up the cost of food, supplies and veterinarian expenses, the cost of a pet is anything but cheap. Unless it involves specialized rescue or medical purposes, training your pet shouldn't be something that costs a fortune. Enrolling your four-legged friend in dog training classes can be pricey, which is why many pet owner opt for training their puppies and dogs at home with a little help from books, videos and/or training programs. These methods often provide valuable insight and allow pet owners to receive the same results as a trainer could furnish, but at a fraction of the cost.
Training methods. When it comes to dog training, the approach that you use will ultimately determine whether or not your attempt is a success or failure. Dog or puppy training should always involve gentle treatment and never include physically or verbally harming your animal. Pets respond to the tone of your voice and positive reinforcement but, during no time, will instilling fear in an animal ever improve your training results. The best and most effective method will include rewards when your pet obeys and ignoring them when they refuse.
Persistence. As with most things in life, results take time. Successful dog training will not occur overnight but, given time, will prove to be a valuable asset to both you and your dog. In order to achieve the best results, you must be willing to spend time working with your pet on a daily basis and continually train your pet even if the task takes more time than you originally thought. In the beginning, responses may be slow or even non-existent. With persistence, you will start to notice a change in your pet that will last a lifetime.
Patience. When it comes to dog training, patience is truly a virtue. Because your puppy or dog doesn't have the ability to communicate in a verbal way, it will take time to teach him/her how to respond to your voiced commands and tone. When you initially start to train your dog, he/she may not respond at all or may even become anxious if they sense that you have treats in your hand or pocket. The key is to have patience with your pet as he/she tries to learn what you desire of them and how best to achieve it.
Convenience. Although some dogs can be professionally trained as rescue or medical respondents, the majority of pet owners simply want their animals to respond to common commands. Therefore, a convenient and easy to understand approach at dog training will be the most effective. Most pets respond to positive reinforcement, which involves rewarding them with a treat, praise and strokes when they have done something right. If a training program is too complicated, it may require the help of a professional trainer. For standard training, a convenient approach is more likely to produce results.
Cost. When you add up the cost of food, supplies and veterinarian expenses, the cost of a pet is anything but cheap. Unless it involves specialized rescue or medical purposes, training your pet shouldn't be something that costs a fortune. Enrolling your four-legged friend in dog training classes can be pricey, which is why many pet owner opt for training their puppies and dogs at home with a little help from books, videos and/or training programs. These methods often provide valuable insight and allow pet owners to receive the same results as a trainer could furnish, but at a fraction of the cost.
Training methods. When it comes to dog training, the approach that you use will ultimately determine whether or not your attempt is a success or failure. Dog or puppy training should always involve gentle treatment and never include physically or verbally harming your animal. Pets respond to the tone of your voice and positive reinforcement but, during no time, will instilling fear in an animal ever improve your training results. The best and most effective method will include rewards when your pet obeys and ignoring them when they refuse.
Persistence. As with most things in life, results take time. Successful dog training will not occur overnight but, given time, will prove to be a valuable asset to both you and your dog. In order to achieve the best results, you must be willing to spend time working with your pet on a daily basis and continually train your pet even if the task takes more time than you originally thought. In the beginning, responses may be slow or even non-existent. With persistence, you will start to notice a change in your pet that will last a lifetime.
Patience. When it comes to dog training, patience is truly a virtue. Because your puppy or dog doesn't have the ability to communicate in a verbal way, it will take time to teach him/her how to respond to your voiced commands and tone. When you initially start to train your dog, he/she may not respond at all or may even become anxious if they sense that you have treats in your hand or pocket. The key is to have patience with your pet as he/she tries to learn what you desire of them and how best to achieve it.
2008年8月3日星期日
A Guide For Setting Up Saltwater Aquariums (Part I)
So, you are wondering if a saltwater aquarium is for you. Most people believe that marine aquarium keeping is infinitely more difficult than freshwater. Not so. The simple truth is that saltwater fish and invertebrates are not necessarily more difficult to keep, they just have different requirements than freshwater fish and are a bit less forgiving when it comes to mistakes. The key to fully understanding this section is to understand the basics presented here.With the outstanding assortment of beautiful saltwater fish to choose from, it is no wonder that so many hobbyists dream of maintaining a marine aquarium. This guide is intended to answer many of the questions a novice marine aquarist may have, and to provide some basic guidelines for selecting and caring for saltwater fish and invertebrates. In addition, we hope that every saltwater hobbyist will read several good, current books on the subject.Reef Tank and Fish Tank: What is the Difference ?There are many different ways you can set up an aquarium depending on what you would like to keep and what interests you most in the hobby. Accordingly hobbyists tend to put names on the different types of aquariums that can be set up because they have similar general requirements depending on the classification of tank.Fish Only TankA Fish Only Tank is a tank that is dedicated to keeping fish, without any sort of corals, anemones or clams. They can contain some mobile invertebrates mainly for helping keep the tank clean. This set up is easier to set up and less costly then a reef tank. This type of tank can be classified into two different areas as well, fish only or fish only with live rock.Reef AquariumA Reef Aquarium contains a lot of life with the main focus being corals or anemones. This type of system generally contains a huge variety of species that require an extremely specialized setup. The needs of the corals or anemones take priority whereas fish in these tanks are considered secondary. Although we generally classify all tanks with corals in it as a reef tank, there are still different types of reef tanks such as softy, LPS (large polyp stony) and SPS (small polyp stony) tanks. These three tanks also have different requirements as well.Here is a brief summary of some of the different equipment requirements for the two types of tanks.Requirements Reef Tank Fish Only TankAlkalinity Yes OptionalCanister filter No OptionalCalcium reactor Optional NoCalcium Yes OptionalHydrometer Yes YesIntense lighting Yes NoLive Rock Yes OptionalLive Sand Optional OptionalNitrate Yes OptionalProtein Skimmer Yes YesRO/DI water Yes PreferableSump Preferable OptionalRefugium Preferable OptionalKalk Dripper Preferable OptionalpH Yes Yes
订阅：
博文 (Atom)