The Power of the Premack Principle for Dog Training Success: "Grandma's Rule"
Ever noticed how your dog eagerly sits for their dinner but seems less enthusiastic about practicing "leave it"? It's time to harness the power of the Premack Principle!
Is your dog struggling with obedience or exhibiting unwanted behaviors? The Premack Principle might be the answer.
"Eat your spinach, then you can have dessert" - a familiar phrase used by parents everywhere. Yes, this is the Premack principle in action, and yes, it also applies to humans. Watch the video embedde in this page to see the Premack principle in action during walks.
This principle suggests that a highly desired behavior can be used as a reward for a less desirable one. In dog training terms, this means that playtime, toys, and treats (valuable to the dog) can be used as incentives to encourage behavior that is valuable to you (like sitting, being quiet, or waiting).
How to Apply the Premack Principle to Dog Training
Identify your dog's favorite things: Is it fetch, tug, certain toys, treats, or simply going outside?
Choose a less desired behavior: This could be anything from sitting calmly when greeting visitors to walking politely on a loose leash.
Create the reward system: Make your dog’s preferred activity contingent on performing the less desirable one. This way you can effectively shape your dog's behavior. For instance, require five calm steps on a loose leash before busting out the toy and playing tug-of-war. Gradually increase the number of steps as your dog improves (10, 100, 300, etc.).
Be consistent: Ensure your dog understands the connection between their actions and the reward.
Tips for More Success:
Never use the incentive/reward as a bribe: The reward should always follow the desired behavior, not precede it. It helps to wear a training pouch (check the video for why and how to use a pouch) or have the rewards hidden in a pocket. Here is a common mistake and misuse of the Premack principle: [talking to the dog] “Hey, look what I have! You want it? Okay, sit!”.
Master your timing: The reward should come immediately after the desired behavior (mark the desired behavior to make it more clear to them).
Variety is key: Rotate rewards periodically if that helps to keep your dog’s motivation levels high.
Scenario:
Your dog loves to jump up on you and it then becomes difficult to get them off (staying down is a low-value behavior. You can encourage them by making your attention and playtime with them (a high-value behavior) contingent on not jumping up, making the most of the premack principle.
By understanding how to use motivation properly and apply the Premack principle effectively and consistently, you'll notice improvements in your dog's obedience and overall behavior in no time!
Check out my other blog posts or contact me for personalized guidance.
