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Positive reinforcement increases the
probability that a desirable behaviour will be repeated. Your dog
must be rewarded when he stops barking in order to encourage this
no-bark response. Use food, toys, or any other object or activity
your dog loves and which you introduce at the exact moment he stops
barking. It is up to you to find out your dog's favourite rewards.
Reinforcement consists of any reward the dog craves,
anything he will be motivated to obtain (food, play, affection,
attention, toys etc.). combined with your voice, giving a verbal
praise like "GOOD DOG". This "Good dog" tells
him at precisely what moment he completed a correct response.
Praise your dog by saying "Good dog" followed by a
reward. He will anticipate the reward after a praise and react
happily. In order to intensify the motivated behaviour you could
reduce quantities of food at mealtime and use them for his training
instead. After a couple of weeks, once the link is solidly established
and the barking has diminished, it is recommended to replace
these systematic reinforcements by sporadic rewards.
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