2021 ANIMAL STORIES MAGAZINE

Page 48 2021 PET MAGAZINE LINCOLN DAILY NEWS JANUARY 21, 2021 a desired task.” This one is not for use by the average pet owner. 5. Model-rival or mirror training “relies on dogs learning by observation when they watch a model of good behavior.” 6. Alpha dog or dominance “relies on a dog’s instinctual pack mentality to create a relationship of submission and dominance.” Modern dog trainers consider this method outdated. 7. Relationship-based training “combines several different training methods, but focuses on a more individualized approach for both dog and owner.” This approach values and assumes a close owner-pet relationship. It is important to find a method that works well for you and your pet, but knowing what researchers say can also be helpful. For example, in “Positive Reinforcement vs. Alpha Dog Methods ‘’ Trainer Dawn Sylvia- Stasiewicz notes “Some training focuses too much on ‘bad’ things a dog does and forces the animal to figure out, through trial and error, what they must do in order to not be punished.” She further asserts, “training doesn’t have to be cruel and punishment oriented…if you train using positive reinforcement, you’ll get a trained dog and you will retain the spirit of the dog.” In looking at the science of dog training, the writer says, “Researchers have found that dogs trained with more reward-based techniques had greater measures of overall obedience.” These techniques “show an increase in a dog’s welfare, seem to decrease anxiety for animals and leads to searching, exploring and risk taking.” The reward-based techniques also “lead to a greater sense of security and fewer problem behaviors.” In contrast, “punishment-based techniques can cause more aggression of excitability” in animals. No matter what strategies you choose, it is important to manage the consequences of your dog’s behavior. Influencing the way dogs behave will mean rewarding the behaviors you like and not rewarding one you do not like. This method will help communicate your expectations for the dog. Methods for training cats Training a cat is likely to require different techniques. AWebMD article on “Training tips for your cat or kitten” says many believe cats are not trainable because “They don’t respond to methods used to train dogs. However, reinforcement of behavior was first used with cats.” Continue p