Unleashing Potential: A Guide to Training Animals with Operant Conditioning

Ever wondered how trainers get animals to perform amazing tricks or seamlessly obey commands? The secret may lie in operant conditioning, a powerful learning technique in behavioral psychology proposed by B.F. Skinner.¹ Operant conditioning applies to a wide range of animals, is used in the ancient art of falconry, horse training, and many others, and may be beneficial to the furry (or feathered or scaled!) friend at home.

Operant conditioning revolves around the idea that behaviors followed by positive consequences are more likely to be repeated.² In operant conditioning, behaviors are strengthened or weakened based on the consequences they bring about.³ By understanding these principles, people can effectively train pets and create a strong bond built on mutual respect and positive reinforcement.

Here's a breakdown of the key steps involved in operant conditioning:

Define the Desired Behavior

What is the pet learning to do? It can be any observable action or response but be specific. Is it shaking a paw, sitting on command, or using a litter box? Clearly identifying the target behavior is crucial for success. In the beginning, it is helpful to look for actions that are:

• Observable and Measurable: The behavior needs to be visible and recorded. This allows researchers and trainers to track changes in the behavior over time.
• Voluntary or Seemingly Voluntary: Operant conditioning typically focuses on behaviors over which the organism has some control. However, some behaviors might seem involuntary at first glance but can still be influenced by operant conditioning principles (e.g., a dog "looking cute" to get a treat).⁴
• Focus on Frequency and Intensity: Operant conditioning is primarily concerned with the frequency (how often) and intensity (how strong) a behavior occurs.⁵ By manipulating consequences, the goal is to increase or decrease the likelihood of the behavior being repeated.

Choose A Reinforcer

What motivates the pet? Anything that increases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. Food treats are a popular choice, but praise, petting, or even a favorite toy can also be effective reinforcers, especially for cats.

Timing is Key!

The reward needs to be delivered immediately after the desired behavior occurs. This is the “key” to success with operant conditioning as it creates a positive association in the pet's mind, linking the action with the reward.⁶ The goal is to increase the frequency of a desired behavior. Providing a reward (reinforcement) immediately after the behavior strengthens the association between the action and the positive consequence, making the behavior more likely to be repeated in the future.

The timing of the reward can be categorized into different reinforcement schedules, each with its own impact on behavior:⁷

• Continuous Reinforcement: A reward is delivered every time the desired behavior occurs. This is effective for initial learning but can become unnecessary once the behavior is established.
• Fixed-Interval Reinforcement: The reward is delivered only after a fixed amount of time has elapsed, regardless of the behavior. This schedule can lead to a burst of activity just before the expected reward time.
• Variable-Interval Reinforcement: The reward is delivered after an unpredictable amount of time has passed since the previous reward. This schedule produces a steady response rate as the animal learns that the reward can come at any time.
• Fixed-Ratio Reinforcement: The reward is delivered only after a specific number of correct responses. This schedule can lead to a high response rate.
• Variable-Ratio Reinforcement: The reward is delivered after a varying number of correct responses. This schedule produces a high and steady response rate as the animal is unsure how many responses are needed to earn the reward.

 Immediate Versus Delayed Reinforcement

• Immediate Reinforcement: When the reward is delivered right after the desired behavior, it creates a stronger association and faster learning. However, this might not always be practical in real-world situations.
• Delayed Reinforcement: The reward is delivered after a short delay following the behavior. While not as strong as immediate reinforcement, it can still be effective in shaping behavior, especially when combined with other reinforcement techniques or cues.

Choosing the right timing is helpful. The ideal timing for reinforcement depends on several factors, including:

• The complexity of the behavior: Simpler behaviors might benefit from immediate reinforcement, while more complex behaviors might require delayed reinforcement with additional guidance.
• The animal's learning rate: Some animals learn faster and respond well to delayed reinforcement, while others require more immediate feedback. This is dependent on the type of animal and their individual personality.
• The desired outcome: If a consistent and high response rate is desired, variable-ratio reinforcement schedules might be more effective.

Mark the Moment in Addition to the Reward

A clicker or a short verbal cue like "yes" can mark the exact moment the pet performs the desired behavior. This helps them understand what action earns them the reward. Eventually, build on this and use the cue as a reward, saving the physical reward for bigger moments.

Start Small and Gradually Increase Difficulty

Break down complex behaviors into smaller, achievable steps. Divide the complex behavior into a series of smaller, achievable steps. Each step should build upon the previous one and gradually lead towards the final goal. For example, if the final behavior is teaching a dog to "fetch the leash," smaller steps might include picking up an object on command, bringing it to the person, and differentiating the leash from other objects. Ensure the dog consistently performs the current step before introducing the next one. This builds confidence and prevents frustration. Once the dog has mastered each individual step, start chaining them together in the desired sequence. Reward successfully completing the chained steps, gradually building towards the final behavior. Celebrate and reward each successful step as the pet progresses towards the final goal.

Be Consistent and Patient

Learning takes time and repetition. Maintain consistent training sessions and avoid getting discouraged if the pet doesn't get it immediately. Multiple short training sessions throughout the day are more effective than long, infrequent ones. Keep training sessions fun and engaging for the dog. Use the same cues, rewards, and training methods every time. Consistency helps the dog understand what is expected of them. Don't expect the dog to master a complex behavior overnight. Be patient and consistent and celebrate small victories. Positive reinforcement and patience go a long way!

Keep it Positive

Operant conditioning is all about positive reinforcement. Focus on rewarding desired behaviors and avoid punishment. Instead of punishing, ignore the incorrect behavior and make sure not to reward the unwanted behavior inadvertently. Positive reinforcement builds trust and creates a positive association with training; harsh punishments or yelling can create fear and hinder learning.

Operant Conditioning in Action

How this translates to training a dog to sit:

1. Desired Behavior: Sitting on command.
2. Reinforcer: A small treat the dog loves.
3. Timing: Hold the treat above the dog's head, naturally encouraging them to look up. As their rear end lowers in a sitting position, click the clicker or say "yes" and immediately give them the treat.
4. Mark the Moment: The clicker or verbal cue marks the exact moment the desired behavior (sitting) occurs.
5. Start Small: Begin by rewarding approximations of the sitting position, like a head tilt or a hip dip, and gradually increase the criteria as the dog progresses.
6. Consistency and Patience: Practice short training sessions daily and celebrate each successful sit.
7. Positive Reinforcement: Focus on rewarding the desired behavior and avoiding punishment.

Operant conditioning offers a powerful and positive approach to pet training. By understanding the principles of positive reinforcement and by carefully timing rewards, one can effectively shape the pet's behavior. This method fosters a positive relationship built on trust and mutual understanding, leading to a well-behaved and happy companion. Remember, consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key to unlocking the full potential of operant conditioning in pet training. With practice and patience, operant conditioning can be a fun and rewarding way to train a pet, strengthen a bond, and unlock their full potential! 

References

1. Skinner, BF. 1984. Selection by consequences. Behav. Brain Sci. 7(4):477-481. Doi:10.1017/S0140525X0002673X
2. Staddon, JE, Cerutti, DT. 2003. Operant conditioning. Annual Rev. Psychol. 54(1):115-144. Doi:1146/annurev.psych.54.101601.145124
3. Tapp, JT. (Ed.). 2013. Reinforcement and behavior. Academic Press.
4. Murphree, OD. 1974. Procedure for operant conditioning of the dog. The Pavlovian J. Biol. Sci. 9:46-50. Doi:10.1007/BF03000502
5. Kelling, A. 2022. Dogs are a lot cuter: An analysis of student perspectives on an operant conditioning laboratory at an animal shelter. Intern. J. Teaching Learning in Higher Ed. 34(1):36-44. Doi:10.1016/j.applanim.2011.05.010
6. Berridge, KC. 2004. Motivation concepts in behavioral neuroscience. Physiol. Behav. 81(2):179-209. Doi:10.1016/j.physbeh.2004.02.004
7. Henton, WW, Iversen, IH. 2012. Classical conditioning and operant conditioning: A response pattern analysis. Springer Sci. Bus. Media. Doi:10.1007/978-1-4612-6310-4_1

Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest updates on all things happening here at BSM Partners.

About the Author

Dr. Katy Miller works as the Director of Veterinary Services at BSM Partners. She earned her veterinary degree at Ross University and completed her clinical year at Louisiana State University. She previously served for 11 years as the Director of Dog and Cat Health and Nutrition for Mud Bay where she earned multiple certifications and specialized in pet food nutriton, prior to which she practiced general and emergency medicine for seven years. She is also a competitive three-day eventer, licensed falconer, and claims only two (Golden and Mini Doxie) of their nine dogs.