Which method is considered a principle rather than a training technique?

The principle of reinforcing the behavior you wish to keep emphasizes the fundamental concept of positive reinforcement in dog training. By consistently rewarding desired behaviors, trainers can strengthen those behaviors, making them more likely to occur in the future. This principle underpins various training techniques but stands alone as a guiding philosophy for effective behavior modification.

In dog training, reinforcing certain behaviors creates an environment where the dog learns what actions lead to positive outcomes, which fosters a deeper understanding and cooperation between the dog and the trainer. This principle transcends specific methods or techniques and is integral to the learning process.

The other methods mentioned – jerk and praise, luring, and mimicry – are specific training techniques that may incorporate the principle of reinforcement but do not, themselves, embody the broader principle of reinforcement. They are tools used within a training framework rather than foundational concepts guiding the approach to training.