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Reward Marker

Importance• Lets the dog know instantly that the behavior he is doing is desirable.
• When giving a command, such as “sit,” it lets the dog know instantly that he is doing the correct behavior that was asked of him.
• Creates stability for the dog when everyone that works with him is using the same command.

How to Train
“Yes” is the Reward Marker.
To instill the Reward Marker:
• Take a handful of bite sized treats and get the dog focused on you.
• Say “yes” while immediately giving the dog one of the treats.
• Repeat this step until all of the treats in your hand are gone.
Note: While instilling the Reward Marker, do not incorporate any training, such as sit, down, etc.
Using the Reward Marker in Training:
• Give the dog the command that you want him to do, such as “sit.”
• As soon as he’s doing the command, say the Reward Marker, “yes” while giving him a treat.
• Once the dog knows the Reward Marker and does the command consistently, continue to say “yes” but only give him a treat every other time. Another idea, try giving the Reward Marker accompanied by a pat on the head or a scratch behind the ears.

Written by Rick Wiersum
Edited by Sarah Kaake
Reference – Brenda Aloft

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