What gets you to show up for work every day? Is it the paycheck? Would you still do what you do if you were not paid?
There have been countless studies that have shown that money can be a de-motivator, but it is seldom a good motivator. The paycheck might be what gets you to show up for work, but it is not what will make you excel. What will have you striving for excellence is interesting work, challenging work, meaningful work. You might excel because you are recognized and appreciated and because you have a sense of accomplishment.
How can we apply this to dog training? Dogs need a paycheck too! They want to know WHAT you want them to do and WHY they should do it. When your dog is learning something new, he must understand what is being asked of him and why he is doing it. The Paycheck, for a dog, is a primary reinforcer. This means that patting him on the head and saying “Good Dog!” is NOT ENOUGH. Primary reinforcers used in training are usually high value treats. Just like money can be a de-motivator, the wrong reinforcer can also send your dog looking elsewhere for fulfillment. Kibble is NOT GOOD ENOUGH. Your dog loves you, but you might as well come to terms now that he is still a selfish creature. Most of the time he is thinking WIFM (What’s in it For ME?).
You know that you will be paid for your work. Your boss does not have to dangle the paycheck in front of your nose to get you to do your job. Same goes when you are training your dog! You are not dangling the treat in front of the dog to “make him” do what you have asked. You are rewarding your dog with the paycheck and not leading your dog with it.
Help your dog excel by making the training fun, rewarding, challenging (but not discouraging). If you have a scent hound, put that nose to work! Hide-and-seek games are made for these dogs! If you have a herding dog, put those instincts to work! Does your dog like to jump? Use those talents!
Not only does your dog need a paycheck, but he also needs satisfying, motivating work.
