The Gentle Persuasion Training Philosophy
"With gentle and positive training methods, dogs not only behave better, but actually enjoy the training process. Reward- based methods also strengthen the dog/owner bond. We give our dogs treats, toys and affection, but for a long happy life together, training is really the best gift of all. Positive based training is teaching you how to teach your dog to be part of the family."

-Janine Yedowitz
Gentle Persuasion Dog Training, LLC
Westchester County, NY

Positive Reinforcement
The Gentle Persuasion way is non-aversive, positive reinforcement training, which rewards your dog for good behavior. Corrections are given with a firm but fair approach with the most up-to-date, humane, and effective methods. These methods help give your dog structure and clear rules.

Reasoning for Rewards
To understand dog training, it’s necessary to have some basic knowledge of how dogs think, learn, and behave. A dog decides whether or not he is going to repeat a behavior by the direct consequences of that behavior. If a behavior brings a reward either from you or the environment, it’s more likely to be repeated. Similarly, if a behavior brings about an unpleasant consequence, chances are good that the dog will not repeat it.

There are several factors that go into reinforcement training. First of all, what makes a reward “reinforcing”? Think of a reward as a motivator in the eyes of the dog. Reinforcement is anything that the dog finds motivating. The more you reinforce your dog’s good behavior, the more these behaviors become good habits. You need to find your dog’s motivating triggers such as play, praise, toys, affection, and the occasional food treat. This is your dogs "salary"; it’s what he’s willing to work for.