That same reinforcement principle also applies to negative behavior, or what we humans might consider negative, like digging in the trash can, which the dog or puppy does not know is "wrong." If the puppy gets into the garbage, steals food or does anything else that he thinks is fun or makes him feel good, he will do it again—its a "self-rewarding" behavior. What better reason to keep a sharp eye on your puppy to prevent those normal canine behaviors? With a firm "No" and then a treat or hug when he stops the bad behavior, he will learn what not to do and that there are rewards for being good.
Next step: Puppy Class 101: English Springer Spaniel
Reprinted from Breeders Best: English Springer Spaniel © 2004. Permission granted by Kennel Club Books, an imprint of BowTie Press.
Page 1 | 2