R+ is a common abbreviation in dog training that stands for "positive reinforcement." It means adding something positive to increase the likelihood of a desired behavior.
Here's a breakdown:
- R: Represents "reinforcement," which means something that strengthens a behavior.
- +: Represents "adding," indicating that something is being added to the situation.
How R+ Works in Dog Training
When you use R+ in dog training, you are essentially rewarding your dog for performing a specific behavior. This reward could be:
- Treats: A tasty treat like a small piece of kibble or a training treat.
- Praise: Verbal praise, such as saying "Good dog!" or "Yes!"
- Toys: A favorite toy or a game of fetch.
- Attention: Petting, scratching, or a gentle hug.
Examples of R+ in Dog Training
- Sit: When your dog sits on command, you immediately give them a treat and say "Good sit!"
- Come: When your dog comes to you when called, you give them a toy and play a short game of tug-of-war.
- Leave it: When your dog leaves a dropped item alone, you give them a piece of kibble and praise them.
Benefits of Using R+
- Positive Association: R+ helps dogs associate positive experiences with training, making them more likely to cooperate.
- Motivation: Rewards motivate dogs to learn and perform desired behaviors.
- Stronger Bonds: R+ strengthens the bond between you and your dog by creating positive interactions.
Remember: The key to successful R+ is to be consistent and deliver the reward immediately after the desired behavior.
