Training Ideas: Non-food Reinforcement

In today’s quick read post, I wanted to give you some fun ideas for non-food reinforcement. Sometimes it is hard to think of fun new ways to reinforce your puppy, especially if you planned on being able to use food but found out that your puppy wasn’t really that interested. So, to help, here is a quick list of ideas you can try out with your puppy.

Toys:

• Fetch

• Tug (be gentle, let the puppy pull rather than you)

• Chew toys

• Cardboard box (make sure it doesn't swallow the cardboard)

Opportunities:

• Sniff something new (only if it is safe to do so).

• Investigate something new (only if safe).

• Play.

• Go Outside.

• Come into the room you are in.

• Be released from something like a stay or its crate.

• Run free.

• Go for a walk.

• Play in water.

Physical Affection:

• Belly rub.

• Ear scratch.

• Massage (better at the end of training).

• Back scratch.

• Hang out time (better at the end of training).

Other:

• Verbal praise.

• Nose-to-hand target.

• Other favorite trained behaviors such as bark or weave between your legs.

A Bonus

As a bonus, if you have a picky eater, here are some food reinforcers you can try (as long as your puppy doesn’t have any breed or individual-specific allergies). Please make sure to check with your vet before using any of these food treats:

• Fresh cooked Salmon

• Fresh-cooked chicken

• Raw veggies

• Faw fruit like blue berries

• Cheerios.

What is your puppy’s favorite reinforcer? Leave a comment below; I would love to hear from you!