All training is based off reinforcement of some kind, whether it's positive or negative. Positive reinforcement is the preferred method as it tends to last longer and work better---especially when teaching complicated tricks and behaviors. Negative reinforcement also has a place in training, although it is much smaller.
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Positive Training
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Positive reinforcement training bases behavior modification on a reward system. If you do this behavior I will give you something you want, such as a treat or praise. This is the preferred training method of most professional animal trainers as it breeds a positive environment where the animal is choosing to participate. The animal begins to build confidence under the constant praise and will generally look for other ways to receive the "at a boy."
The basic model of positive reinforcement is as follows. Have a treat that your dog enjoys at hand. Break or cut them into small pieces so they are not even a mouthful; smaller dogs such as Chihuahuas will need small pieces. The idea is to feed them about half of his normal sized meal over a training session. If the pieces are bigger, the dog might fill up and not be as interested in the reward. Once you have given a food reward several times, you can start to introduce the praise reward every other time the dog performs the correct behavior.
Offer the dog a bit of treat so he knows you have something he likes. Next, say the desired command, such as "sit" and gently raise your hand above and slightly over the dog's head; this usually results in the dog sitting so he can continue to look at your hand. If he doesn't sit on his own, simply place him in the desired position and repeat the command and give him the treat. Repeat until saying the command results in the desired behavior. Dogs typically figure out quite quickly the behavior equals food or a "good boy."
Negative Training
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Negative reinforcement is not typically recommended by trainers except in extreme cases. Extensive positive training should be tried to correct the behavior problem before negative means are used. Negative reinforcement works through giving a painful or unpleasant response to the behavior demonstrated. For example, rubbing a dog's nose in an accident in the house or kicking a barking dog. These kinds of reinforcements create an atmosphere of fear where the dog becomes insecure and is actually more likely to act out.
It is useful, however, in situations such as avoidance of danger---for example, rattlesnake avoidance. Trainers use shock collars to teach dogs their interest in the snake will result in pain. In this situation, the pain of the shock is far easier on the dog than getting bit while out on the trail thus the aid is warranted. Trainers often put a shock collar on the dog and have a rattlesnake under a bucket. The dog hears the rattle, goes to investigate, and the owner gives the dog a shock, which, ultimately, will teach the dog not to go near a rattlesnake.
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