Leash & Obedience Training Flashcards

A reactive dog lunges at cyclists on leash. The handler wants to use counter-conditioning. What is the CORRECT procedure?

Answer: Present the cyclist at a distance where the dog notices but is not reactive, then deliver high-value treats

Counter-conditioning works by pairing the trigger at sub-threshold distance with high-value food to change the dog's emotional response from negative to positive.

Which term describes the point at which a dog's arousal level becomes too high for it to learn effectively during leash training?

Answer: Superthreshold

A dog working 'over threshold' or 'superthreshold' is too aroused or stressed to process information and learn, making training ineffective until arousal is reduced.

A trainer uses a 'U-turn' technique during loose-leash walking practice. This technique works by:

Answer: Changing direction before the leash becomes taut, encouraging the dog to follow

The U-turn technique involves changing direction before tension occurs, rewarding the dog for choosing to follow and maintaining attention on the handler.

For a CDT candidate, what does the term 'stimulus control' mean in the context of a trained obedience behavior?

Answer: The dog performs a behavior only and always in the presence of a specific cue

A behavior is under stimulus control when it occurs reliably in the presence of the designated cue and not in its absence, at any time, or in response to other cues.

A dog trained to walk on the left side begins consistently drifting behind the handler's legs. The MOST likely cause is:

Answer: The dog has been inadvertently reinforced for the behind position

If the handler has accidentally rewarded the dog (e.g., by stopping, looking back, or giving treats) while the dog lagged behind, that position has been unintentionally reinforced.

Which management tool is generally recommended for teaching loose leash walking to a large, strong dog as a TEMPORARY measure while training progresses?

Answer: Front-clip no-pull harness

A front-clip harness redirects the dog toward the handler when it pulls, making it harder for the dog to gain forward momentum while training the loose leash behavior is underway.

In CDT preparation, what is the distinction between 'obedience' and 'manners' training in everyday practice?

Answer: Obedience involves formal cued behaviors; manners focus on default polite behaviors without cues

Obedience training involves behaviors performed reliably on specific cues, while manners training focuses on the dog offering calm, polite default behaviors without needing to be asked.