ABSTRACT
A responsible Animal Behaviour Consultant will advise the use of positive reinforcement techniques in behaviour modification as using punishment techniques can cause anxiety and has been found to be counterproductive in training dogs as well as being a potential welfare issue. Using reinforcement of behaviour with different rewards enables a change in the dog-owner relationship so that a dog learns that the owner is in control of situations without the need for the owners to use any physical force or demonstrate any aggressive behaviours. Treatment in the form of a behaviour modification programme is only given after a lengthy consultation with the dog owner(s) as well as anyone else in the household and/or anyone with involvement with the dogs. Whilst training the owner should not physically place their puppy in the position that is being asked of, but use treats to encourage that posture and reward them immediately so that the puppy knows what it is they have done correctly.
