What defines a Fixed Duration (FD) schedule in dog training?

A Fixed Duration (FD) schedule in dog training is defined by the requirement that the dog must maintain a specific behavior for a predetermined amount of time before receiving a reward. This approach encourages the dog to hold a particular behavior consistently, and the training process relies on timing that is consistent and clear to the dog.

In this scenario, the expectation is set explicitly that the behavior needs to be performed without interruption for a defined duration. This method is particularly effective for teaching behaviors that require persistence, such as sitting or staying in a specific position for a set period. By providing rewards only after the dog has successfully held the behavior for the specified duration, trainers can reinforce the importance of remaining in that position or performing that action accurately and diligently.

Other methods, such as variable duration schedules or random reinforcement, do not utilize the fixed time aspect and vary the criteria, which could lead to confusion for the dog regarding when the reward will be given. Similarly, rewarding behavior without a time constraint can lead to less predictable outcomes and does not instill the same level of focus on maintaining the behavior over time.