Michael Ellis, a top notch trainer of dog trainers provides an excellent video clip as to why dogs should be treated if they sit but do so slowly. He explains that the dog sat as instructed and thus should be rewarded. The fact that he sat slowly does not dismiss the need for the reward.
In the past, many trainers have said to only reward for faster responses. There are three problems with that. First, the dog was correct by performing a sit. Secondly, if you don’t reward for a proper sit, then you have confirmed the dog’s suspicion that performing the sit wasn’t worth the dog’s effort. And, thirdly, the dog’s slow sit is not a function of being disobedient (he did the sit) but instead a glimpse into the dog’s mind and his motivational state to perform the requested command. As you reward for proper but slow sits, his motivation to do it quicker will improve provided the reward is motivating to the dog.
Click here to listen to Michael Ellis’ video explanation. For help with your dog, contact Michigan Dog Training in Plymouth, Michigan, 734-634-4152.
