DTCCC Training Primer
Welcome!
Congratulations on starting an exciting and rewarding journey with your dog at the Dog Training Center of Chester County (DTCCC).
This online module is designed to introduce you to our positive reinforcement-based training methods and some of the concepts you will learn in your first classes. After completing this module, we hope you feel well-prepared to begin training with us.
When you finish the Primer, be sure to learn how to Set Up Your Training Space.
At the end of this module, participants will be familiar with
commonly used training equipment
using a marker as a training tool
training methods used by DTCCC
Training Primer Contents & Navigation
We recommend working through the Training Primer in this order, but feel free to skip around.
Some sections have optional bonus content if you want to learn more about a topic. To return to this page from a bonus content page, use the menu at the top of the page or the navigation button at the bottom of the page.
You will be able to ask specific questions during your first online class.
Basic Training Equipment
At DTCCC, we recommend equipment that will result in an enjoyable experience for you and your dog.
The specific items you will need to get started include:
collar or harness
leash
treats and optional treat pouch
marker word
management tools: any or all of the following
crate
baby gate
expen
tether
water and water bowl for your dog
helper to hold your dog
Enrichment and Toys
Your dog will have some downtime during class. Included here are some suggestions that might keep him occupied.
Items you may want to have on hand:
• snuffle mat
• chew toys
• stuffed Kong or similar food stuffing toys
Training Methods
At DTCCC, we use positive reinforcement-based training methods. At a very basic level, we will use the things your dog loves (for example, food, balls, or play) to teach them desired behaviors (for example, sit, down, and come when called).
This section introduces important concepts and terms in the science of learning.
Classical conditioning is the science of learning by association. A signal that is always followed by an event will come to predict that event.
We use this type of learning to teach markers. Through repeated pairing, the dog learns that the marker predicts food.
Operant conditioning is the science of learning behaviors as a result of outcomes. A behavior that results in a favorable outcome is likely to strengthen (be repeated). A behavior that results in an unfavorable outcome is likely to weaken (not be repeated).
Favorable outcomes, or reinforcers, increase the likelihood of behaviors being repeated. In positive reinforcement-based training we give our dogs reinforcers like food and toys to increase the likelihood our dogs will repeat desired behaviors like sit and down.
Classical Conditioning and Operant Conditioning - Positive Reinforcement Examples
Classical Conditioning
Your dog gets a piece of turkey every time you say "yes!" and now looks expectantly when you use your marker word.
The lid on the dog food container snaps open just before meals and now your dogs run to the kitchen any time they hear a container open.
You get your sneakers out of the closet before walks and now your dog runs around excitedly when you open the closet door.
Your kids hear jingly music on a summer day and ask for money for the ice cream truck. (Note: Yes, classical conditioning also works on people.)
Operant Conditioning - Positive Reinforcement
Your dog gets a piece of cheese when he spins.
You take your dog for a walk when he sits while you put on your shoes. (Note: This is an advanced skill that can be built in small steps.)
The scary garbage truck disappears when your dog barks. (Note: The garbage truck didn't disappear because your dog barked, but she doesn't know that. It's still a reinforcing outcome and the barking is likely to be repeated unless you intervene with management and training.)
You leave a sandwich on the table and your dog gets a surprise treat while counter surfing. (Note: Your dog can find his own reinforcers!)
Your boss compliments the report you worked hard to produce. (Note: Positive reinforcement works on people, too.)
Developing Your Marker Skills
Markers are used to signal the precise moment a dog performs a desired behavior. In DTCCC's manners classes, we use a word like "yes" to mark desired behaviors.
As you progress through your training journey, you may hear the word clicker used instead of marker. Don't worry. A clicker is a specific type of marker, but both are used in the same way. Use whatever you are most comfortable with.
This video provides an explanation and demonstration of marker use.
Things to remember
always pair the marker with food
the marker signals the correct behavior
marking too early is better than too late
practice marker skills without your dog
the marker is not used to get your dog's attention or distract from misbehavior
Ball Bounce Exercise
In this exercise, you will practice marker skills using a small, bouncy ball. The goal is to mark or click the ball at its highest and lowest points. It’s better to be a little early with your timing/marker vs. late.
The specific pieces of equipment you will need to get started include
your marker word (for example, "yes")
bouncy ball
Steps
Toss a ball into the air.
Mark when the ball is at its highest point.
Mark when the ball hits the floor.
Catch the ball and repeat.
Remember: It’s better to be a little early with your timing/marker vs. late.
Important Terms and Concepts Used in Positive Reinforcement Training
Next Steps for You and Your Dog
Continue preparing for your online class by learning how to Set Up Your Training Space.
In-Person Classes
The schedule of classes offered at our training center in Exton, PA is regularly updated on the DTCCC website.
Please note: Online classes are not direct replacements for in-person classes. If you wish to enroll in an in-person class after completing an online class, it is recommended that you and your dog complete an in-person orientation so that you can be successful when working in our training center.
Wrap Up
Please take a few moments to reflect on what you've learned, the successes you've had, and the progress you've made. We would also like to hear your suggestions for improving this session and our online offerings.
