Petting is a great way to praise and reinforce good behavior.

      Luring can be done with any type of positive reinforcer: food, praise, petting or a favorite toy. Different lures can be used for different situations. Praise is a good reinforcer if the dog did something well but did not improve the behavior, or if the dog is in the process of performing well. Praise encourages the dog to continue the proper response. Touch is a great means of rewarding dogs. They love being stroked and scratched. It’s part of pack bonding and affection display. For dogs that don’t care how delectable a food treat might be, stroking can be used as the primary reinforcer. Some dogs love a ball, a rope or a stuffed toy more than a piece of food. The action of giving the dog this toy to reinforce a specific behavior is rewarding and will encourage the dog to continue working. Food, however, is the easiest means of reinforcing good behavior. Most dogs have good food drives and it’s just a matter of finding the foods that motivate. Dogs without a food drive will be difficult to teach through positive reinforcement unless you can find another high-value motivator. I’ve had several dogs who prefer a tennis ball to food. Give it a try.