How guide dogs learn

At Guide Dogs, we use the latest ethical and science-based techniques to train our dogs. Every partnership is unique, and we design individual training programmes to meet the needs of you and your guide dog.

Our approach to dog training

The approach to dog training and our understanding of how dogs learn has changed significantly over the years, resulting in updated techniques to teaching dogs new behaviours. We keep up to date with these methods and new thinking, ensuring our dogs receive the best possible training experience so they enjoy learning new things and look forward to their work.

Early dog training theory was based on studies of captive wolves in the 1930s and 1940s. which promoted the view that people should dominate their dogs to manage their behaviour. However, this view is flawed as in captivity, wolves behave very differently to how they would in the wild. Also, dogs and wolves are different species, so comparing them isn't always helpful. We've now learned that the concept of dominance isn't very useful when it comes to understanding dog-human relationships.

Consistency and focussing on the positive

We use clear and consistent communication to teach our dogs what we want them to do. So, if a dog jumps up at food or passing dogs, we set up our training to reward them for ignoring those distractions. Providing clear and consistent cues for desired behaviour will help your dog to understand what’s expected of them and how to respond in different situations. 

Similarly, by being consistent in your training and how you reward behaviour, you can help your dog to develop reliable and predictable responses. Our dogs learn that training is rewarding, which means they’re engaged, motivated and look forward to their work.

What is positive reinforcement and how does it work?

Positive reinforcement is a training approach that involves rewarding your dog for desired behaviour. The power of positive reinforcement is central to training our dogs and creating strong, trusting partnerships. The reward can be food, verbal praise, toys and enrichment, or something you know motivates your dog. Positive reinforcement is important because encouraging your dog to repeat desired behaviour will help them understand what’s expected of them.

Dogs are individuals, and your dog's personality may also affect their behaviour. By using positive reinforcement, you can teach your dog that demonstrating desired behaviour leads to good things. Your Guide Dog Mobility Specialist can help you reinforce and maintain your dog's behaviour based on their unique needs.

Marker training

Marker training is a technique used in dog training that uses a distinct sound, like a clicker or a verbal cue, to "mark" the exact moment your dog performs the behaviour you want to see. This technique works well as the marker links the behaviour and the reward, helping your dog understand what they did to earn a reward.

Rewarding desired behaviour

When it comes to reinforcing behaviour, it's important that you focus on what you want your dog to do and use the power of rewards! Ultimately, it's all about creating a positive and enjoyable learning experience and celebrating desired behaviours.

We don’t recommend punishment as part of training because negative associations with work can cause or increase behaviour problems, inhibit learning, and damage your dog’s relationship with you.

What are the most effective rewards?

It's important to include a variety of reinforcers, such as food, verbal praise and physical contact, to support your training. By combining these techniques and consistently rewarding positive behaviour throughout your partnership, your dog will remain motivated, content, and prepared to conquer any challenge that comes your way.

While food is rewarding for many dogs, for others food isn’t a big treat! If this is the case for your dog, it's important to find other rewards that your dog finds enjoyable and motivating. Here are some other options to consider if your dog isn’t food motivated:

• Verbal praise: Verbal praise and encouragement can be just as rewarding as receiving food for some dogs.
• Touch: You can also use physical touch, such as petting or giving your dog a scratch behind the ears as a reward, if they enjoy this.
• Toys: Another option is to use toys as a reward. Some dogs are highly motivated by play and enjoy a game of fetch or tug-of-war.
• Activities: You can use a favourite activity, such as a trip to the dog park or a game of frisbee, as a reward for a job well done.

Ultimately, the key is to learn what motivates your dog and use these as rewards. Your Guide Dog Mobility Specialist will help by showing you positive reinforcement techniques and help you find the perfect rewards for your guide dog. Using the rewards your dog loves throughout their working life will also help ensure their work remains focused, allow you to build a strong bond and establish a partnership based on consistency and trust.

If you need advice about training or working with your guide dog or have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact us via Guide Line. They're on hand to provide guidance and support whenever you need it.