Dogs learn through the 4 quadrants of Operant Conditioning

Each section of the quadrant has its place; however, positive reinforcement is in my opinion the most powerful. Therefore, it needs to be used correctly to highlight and “mark” desired behaviors. Most people dilute their positive by using it all the time.

The goal is to eventually be able to do that, but we must stay focused on the behaviors we’re reinforcing to avoid rewarding anything unwanted. That being said, you can also “mark” and undesirable behavior as well. (See Patterns)