In this episode, Michael Ellis and Ivan Balabanov trainers discuss various topics within the dog training industry. They cover the definition of a good repetition in training, the importance of timing and motivation, the impact of human intervention on dog evolution, the use of errorless learning versus trial and error learning, the utilization of a dog's genetic predisposition in training, and the changes in the detection dog world over the years. This part of the conversation focuses on introducing variable reward schedules in training, the legalities of working with detection dogs, the challenges of managing vocalization in dogs, and the distinction between opposition reflex and opposition response. The importance of introducing blanks and control negatives in training is also discussed, as well as the value of signaling and conditioned reinforcers. The conversation also touches on understanding dogs with ADHD-like behaviors, embracing challenges and failures in training, and the process of training obedience with distractions. In this conversation, the hosts discuss various topics related to dog training. They emphasize the importance of exposing dogs to different environments and not isolating them until their behaviors are perfect. They also discuss the use of personal vs. impersonal punishment and the role of clarity in training. The hosts share their thoughts on the use of pharmaceuticals in dog training, highlighting the need for a plan to eliminate them and the potential side effects. They also discuss the future of the dog training industry and offer advice for the next generation of dog trainers.
Takeaways
Focus on invested repetitions in training rather than empty repetitions.
Timing and motivation are key factors in the learning process.
Understanding a dog's genetic predisposition can greatly enhance training.
Errorless learning can be effective in certain situations, but trial and error learning is also important for dogs to learn from their mistakes.
Bonding and building a strong relationship with the dog is crucial in training.
Using the dog's food allowance for training should be done with caution and consideration for the dog's overall well-being.
The detection dog world has seen changes in training techniques, including the use of markers and variable reward schedules. Expose dogs to different environments to help them adapt and perform well in various situations.
Use personal punishment signals to mark mistakes and provide clarity in training.
Consider the context and purpose of punishment, and ensure it is associated with the correct behavior.
Use pharmaceuticals as a temporary solution and have a plan to eliminate them.
Focus on becoming a skilled dog trainer before seeking fame or attention on social media.
Prioritize the joy and presence in dog training, rather than seeking external validation.
The future of the dog training industry may involve a shift towards recognizing and valuing expertise and experience.
Chapters
Defining a Good Repetition in Training
03:38
Motivation and Endurance in Training
04:12
The Role of Arousal in Learning
05:39
Emphasizing Precision over Speed
07:37
The Rewarding Effect of Avoiding Correction
09:02
The Impact of Human Intervention on Dog Evolution
13:04
Exploring Genetic Predisposition in Dogs
20:19
Focusing on the Dog's Strengths in Training
21:59
The Importance of Bonding and Understanding in Training
23:55
Utilizing the Dog's Genetic Predisposition
32:46
Using the Dog's Food Allowance for Training
44:24
Changes in the Detection Dog World
51:53
Introducing Variable Reward Schedules
52:52
The Importance of Introducing Variable Reinforcement Early
53:47
Legalities of Working with Detection Dogs
55:04
Handler Bias and Cueing the Dog
55:52
The Value of Release and Independence in Detection Dogs
56:51
The Role of Control Negatives and Blank Searches
57:39
Using Variable Reward Schedules for Odor and Blanks
58:31
The Challenges of Introducing Blanks in Training
59:24
The Value of Signaling and Conditioned Reinforcers
01:01:06
Managing Pavlovian and Anticipatory Responses
01:01:40
Managing Vocalization in Dogs
01:06:34
Understanding Dogs with ADHD-like Behaviors
01:09:05
Patience and Incremental Building of Focus and Concentration
01:10:45
Embracing Challenges and Failures in Training
01:15:09
Training Obedience with Distractions
01:27:33
Opposition Reflex vs Opposition Response
01:34:06
Introducing Distractions and Corrections in Obedience Training
01:38:43
The Importance of Exposure to Different Environments
01:41:02
Personal vs. Impersonal Punishment
01:43:49
Handler Aggression and Clarity in Training
01:46:02
Collaborative Learning and Relationship Building
01:50:49
Activation of the Dog vs. Activation of the Handler
01:57:26
The Use of Pharmaceuticals in Dog Training
02:03:16
The Future of the Dog Training Industry
02:03:41
Advice for the Next Generation of Dog Trainers