CDT Training Techniques & Methodologies 2

Question 1

Which training principle states that a behavior followed by a pleasant consequence is more likely to be repeated?

Accepted Answer

Law of Effect

Answer

Thorndike's Law of Effect states that behaviors producing satisfying outcomes are strengthened and more likely to recur.

Question 2

A trainer uses a clicker the instant a dog sits, then delivers a treat. What is the clicker functioning as in this scenario?

Accepted Answer

Secondary reinforcer

Answer

The clicker is a secondary (conditioned) reinforcer because it gains value by being paired with a primary reinforcer like food.

Question 3

What is 'shaping' in dog training?

Accepted Answer

Reinforcing successive approximations toward a target behavior

Answer

Shaping involves reinforcing incremental steps that progressively get closer to the final desired behavior.

Question 4

When a trainer adds an unpleasant stimulus to reduce a behavior, this is called:

Accepted Answer

Positive punishment

Answer

Positive punishment involves adding (positive) an aversive stimulus to decrease the likelihood of a behavior.

Question 5

A dog that has learned 'sit' in the kitchen struggles to perform it at the park. What training concept does this illustrate?

Accepted Answer

Lack of generalization

Answer

Generalization is the ability to perform a learned behavior across varied contexts; dogs often need explicit training in multiple environments.

(CDT) Certified Dog Trainer Practice Test