Canine Comprehension

A simple guide to how dogs learn

As a dog owner, training your dog can sometimes feel like a daunting task. However, understanding the basics of how dogs (and all other creatures) learn can be a huge help. Put simply, there are two processes through which dogs learn, and we can use these to help communicate with them and teach them more effectively. This blog will introduce you to these concepts and how they can be applied in dog training.

Classical Conditioning

Classical conditioning is a learning process that occurs through associations between an environmental stimulus and a naturally occurring stimulus. This concept was first described by Ivan Pavlov, a Russian physiologist, in the early 20th century. Pavlov's experiments with dogs demonstrated that a neutral stimulus, when paired with an unconditioned stimulus, could eventually elicit a conditioned response.

In Pavlov’s experiments, he would ring a bell when putting food out for the dogs to eat. When the dogs smelled the food, they would begin to drool. After a few weeks, they would start drooling when they heard the bell, whether food was present or not. In other words, the sound of the bell was such a strong signal that food would follow shortly, that it triggered a physical response in the dogs.

In classical conditioning, there are several key components:

• Unconditioned Stimulus (UCS): A stimulus that naturally and automatically triggers a response without any learning needed (e.g., food causing salivation in dogs).

• Unconditioned Response (UCR): The natural, unlearned reaction to the unconditioned stimulus (e.g., salivation in response to food).

• Conditioned Stimulus (CS): A previously neutral stimulus that, after being paired with the unconditioned stimulus, comes to trigger a conditioned response (e.g., the sound of a bell).

• Conditioned Response (CR): The learned response to the previously neutral stimulus (e.g., salivation in response to the bell).

Classical conditioning plays a crucial role in various aspects of behaviour and learning, influencing everything from emotional responses to the development of phobias.  Critically, in dogs, it is the process that allows the ‘marker’ system to work. If the use of the word “yes” or the sound of a clicker predicts the arrival of a reward, then we have a way of letting the dog know when they are doing something we like.

Operant Conditioning

The second process is called Operant Conditioning and it is a more complex but arguably more powerful system of learning.  Operant Conditioning is a method of learning that leverages rewards and consequences to influence behaviour.

Operant conditioning, developed by psychologist B.F. Skinner, is a form of learning where behaviours are influenced by the consequences that follow them. It is based on the principle that behaviours followed by positive consequences are more likely to be repeated, while behaviours followed by negative consequences are less likely to be repeated. This method of learning is widely used in various realms, including animal training.

The Four Quadrants of Operant Conditioning

Operant conditioning involves four key strategies, often referred to as the 'four quadrants': positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, positive punishment, and negative punishment. These strategies are used to either encourage or discourage specific behaviours.

• Positive reinforcement involves adding something rewarding to increase the likelihood of a behaviour being repeated. For instance, giving your dog a treat or praise when they successfully sit on command encourages them to sit on command in the future. The reward makes the behaviour enjoyable and worth repeating.

• Negative reinforcement entails removing something the dog finds unpleasant when they perform the desired behaviour. For example, if you apply gentle pressure to your dog's harness and release it when they walk nicely beside you, the removal of pressure reinforces the good behaviour. The dog learns that walking nicely leads to the removal of the uncomfortable pressure.

• Positive punishment involves adding something unpleasant to reduce the likelihood of a behaviour being repeated. An example is using a loud noise to startle your dog when they jump on guests. The unpleasant consequence discourages the unwanted behaviour.

• Negative punishment entails removing something desirable to reduce the likelihood of a behaviour being repeated. For instance, if your dog jumps up to greet you and you ignore it, this “removal” of attention serves as a punishment. The dog learns that jumping up results in the loss of something they value.

Applying Operant Conditioning in Dog Training

Effective dog training involves understanding when and how to use these four quadrants. Here are some practical tips to help you apply operant conditioning in your training sessions:

Start with Positive Reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is often the most effective and humane way to train your dog. Begin by rewarding your dog for behaviours you want to encourage. Use treats, praise, toys, or any other rewards your dog enjoys. Consistency is key—reward the desired behaviour every time it occurs, especially in the beginning stages of training.

Be Clear and Consistent. Dogs learn best when the consequences of their actions are immediate and consistent. Ensure that you apply rewards and consequences right after the behaviour occurs, so your dog can make the connection between their action and the outcome. Consistency in your responses will help your dog understand what is expected of them.

Use a Marker Signal. A marker signal, such as a clicker or a specific word like 'yes,' can help bridge the time between the behaviour and the reward. When your dog performs the desired behaviour, use the marker signal and then follow it with a reward. This helps your dog understand exactly which behaviour earned them the reward.

Gradually Reduce Rewards. Once your dog reliably performs the desired behaviour, you can gradually reduce the frequency of rewards. This process, known as fading, helps ensure that your dog will continue to perform the behaviour without expecting a reward every time. Instead of treating every time, use intermittent reinforcement, where rewards are given at random intervals.

The Role of the Other Quadrants

Despite what you may see on social media, there is no such thing as a purely positive or force-free approach to dog training.  Anyone who says otherwise is lying, oblivious or doesn’t use any equipment. The fact is that the moment you start teaching a dog to walk on a lead, you are both applying force (lead pressure) and utilising something other than positive reinforcement (negative reinforcement).  If you remove a toy from a dog to help them calm down, you are using negative punishment.

The most controversial and emotive quadrant is that of positive punishment, aka corrections. People get upset by the language and interpret it as always being violent or painful to the dog. It can be as simple as using a negative marker e.g. “no” and physically preventing a dog from making a bad decision. This is often wrapped up in the term “management”, but behaviourally, it is positive punishment, especially if the dog learns from the experience. However, there are clear instances where the application of a sudden forceful sensation may be justified e.g. to prevent a dog from running onto a road or biting an electrical wire.

Conclusion

Training takes time, and every dog learns at their own pace. Be patient and maintain a positive attitude throughout the training process. Avoid using unnecessarily harsh or excessive punishments, which have the potential to damage the trust between you and your dog and, in some instances, lead to increased fear or aggression. Focus on reinforcing good behaviours and firmly redirecting unwanted behaviours without getting angry or frustrated.

Classical and Operant conditioning are powerful tools for dog training. Classical Conditioning opens up a way of effectively communicating with our dogs so we can tell them what we like and what we don’t like from their behaviour.  Operant Conditioning relies on the principles of rewards and consequences. By understanding and applying the four quadrants effectively, you can shape your dog's behaviour positively and humanely. Remember to be patient, consistent, and positive throughout the training process. With time and practice, you'll build a strong and trusting relationship with your dog, leading to a well-behaved and trusting companion.