Successful dog training can be achieved if there is a motivation to learn on both ends. We need to be motivated to learn as pet parents in order to understand our pets’ learning needs and how to duly acknowledge and fulfill them. Our pets, likewise, must feel motivated to listen to our instruction and learn how to modify their behaviors accordingly. Finding the motivation to complete these tasks may appear arduous, but understanding the neurophysiological correlates of motivation can help us figure out how to incentivize our pet in ways conducive to productive learning, and make the task at hand less daunting for both parties. How motivation is maintained between both parties can influence training outcomes and ultimately produce success.
What motivates us to learn in general? There is a wide assortment of drivers, but our intrinsic motivation is largely influenced by reward. Neurotransmitters carry messages to different parts of the brain directing behavior, internal physiology, and central nervous system regulation. The neurotransmitter most closely associated with our neurophysiological reward pathways and pleasure centers is dopamine. You may already be familiar with dopamine’s role in mood regulation, but it also plays a critical role in regulating attention and learning. Integrating reward-based techniques into your program can potentially improve training outcomes.
The results of reward-based methods have been shown to demonstrate higher efficacy rates than aversive methods in some studies. Dogs trained exclusively using reward-based methods were reported to be significantly more obedient than those trained using aversive methods (punishment) or a combination of both. A study by Viera de Castro et al., in 2020 found that dogs trained with aversive methods displayed more stress behaviors during training, and showed higher elevations in cortisol after training than dogs trained with either reward or mixed methods. High levels of cortisol are often linked to health issues in dogs such as behavioral issues and Cushing’s Syndrome. Aversive dog parenting methods can encourage overexcitement or induce an anxiety driven state in dogs which can cause engagement difficulties and potential conflicts. Reward based methods were found to reduce overexcitement.
When reinforced over time, a dopamine driven brain state assists the learning and bonding process beyond simply making life more enjoyable for our dogs. Here are examples of situations which help the process occur:
- Introducing treats to reinforce appropriate behaviors during the beginning stages of training.
- Healthy dopamine-inducing treats may include: foods, verbal and gestural cues, toys, and affection.
- Maintaining a consistent positive oriented training routine. Positive reinforcement can help to motivate our dogs to participate in the learning process. Blaming or shaming them does little to fix existing issues or inspire development.
Unhealthy or unacceptable behaviors can develop from connection to dopamine as well in dogs that will persist unless properly directed otherwise. It is important not to reinforce these behaviors through reward accidentally. Methods to prevent this include counter-conditioning and desensitization. See the links to our training section for more. Examples of unhealthy dopamine driven behaviors that can develop are:
- Barking at other dogs on a leash
- Food or resource guarding
- Jumping on house guests or visitors
Choice of training has also been shown to affect dog attachment to the owner. Findings from a 2019 study with Vieira de Castro et al., also suggest that secure attachment tended to be more consistent in dogs trained with a reward-oriented focus. These are consistent with our experience and core principles that outline our recommendations in the Wise Woof Training Section.
