Updates On 29th Jul 2013
SPCA Singapore 
Jul 29, 2013 
NGOs, SPCA Singapore 
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Why do we use food as rewards in positive reinforcement training?
A dog can have different motivators (e.g. food, play, a chance to chase something, a car ride, etc.). When a dog starts learning something new, we choose the reward that motivates the dog most in that situation. For many dogs, food is one of the strongest natural rewards. Think of it this way – when you start a new job, the strongest motivator may be the salary. As you get better in your job, your priorities may begin to shift and you could become more motivated by other factors – enjoying your colleagues’ company or appreciating the staff benefits. At the highest level, when you’re thoroughly enjoying what you do, you work for job satisfaction.
Similarly, a food reward to a food-motivated dog is like the initial salary – it pays well and sets the pace of learning. As the dog gets better at performing the desired behaviour, food rewards may become integrated with other rewards (e.g. a game of tug with you, a tummy rub, etc.). The behaviour eventually becomes second nature to your dog. However, just as you wouldn’t appreciate not being paid a salary when performing well at work has become second nature to you, neither should you expect your dog to completely forfeit its tangible rewards. That’s when you put in place a ‘variable bonus’ reward system – better performances earn better rewards.
Thank you Kang Nee for sharing another training tip with us!
Kang Nee is a certified professional dog trainer who works with us to help the dogs in our shelter increase their chances of finding a good forever home. Visit her website at http://cheerfuldogs.com/ to find out more on how to train dogs the kind (and right) way 
Source: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151586486363155&set=a.283797778154.142068.262947298154&type=1&relevant_count=1
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