Operant Conditioning

Operant conditioning describes how behaviour is shaped and maintained by its consequences. It is divided into four quadrants, each explaining how behaviour changes when something is either added or removed in response to what a dog does, with the aim of increasing or decreasing that behaviour. In everyday life, dogs are constantly learning this way, often without us realising it. Understanding these four quadrants helps explain why dogs repeat some behaviours and abandon others, and it also provides a clear framework for choosing training methods that support learning while protecting emotional welfare.

Positive reinforcement means adding something pleasant to increase a desired behaviour. “Positive” here means adding, not “good”. For instance, when a dog sits and you give a treat or verbal praise, the added reward strengthens the likelihood of the dog sitting again. This is the cornerstone of ethical, science-based training because it builds trust and motivation.

Negative reinforcement involves removing something unpleasant to increase a behaviour. “Negative” means taking away. For example, a dog might learn to walk nicely on a lead when mild pressure on the collar stops once it moves closer to you. Although it can work, it sometimes relies on discomfort being applied and then removed, so it’s not always considered ideal for emotional welfare.

Positive punishment means adding something unpleasant to reduce an unwanted behaviour. For example, shouting at a dog that jumps up adds an aversive stimulus (your loud voice), which may suppress the jumping. However, punishment often causes fear or confusion and doesn’t teach the dog what to do instead, so it’s widely discouraged.

Negative punishment involves taking away something pleasant to reduce an unwanted behaviour. For instance, if a dog jumps up to greet you and you turn away or withhold attention, the pleasant social interaction is removed, which discourages jumping. This is generally the most humane form of consequence when used thoughtfully, especially when combined with teaching an alternative behaviour.

As you’ll no doubt have gathered from the name, my own approach is firmly rooted in positive reinforcement, not just because it is effective, but because I find it the most fulfilling way to work with dogs. Seeing a dog gain confidence, understanding, and choice through learning is far more rewarding than simply suppressing behaviour. In everyday life there may occasionally be moments where attention is briefly withheld, or gentle guidance is needed, but these are always secondary to, and supportive of, positive reinforcement, rather than a focus in their own right. This approach extends beyond the dog itself, as everyone in a dog’s life benefits from learning that is clear, positive, and enjoyable, and from the confidence that grows when progress is made together.