When working with dogs exhibiting fear-based aggression, traditional training methods that focus on dominance can often exacerbate the problem. Instead, positive reinforcement techniques, such as the “Retreat ‘n Treat” method, offer a path to building trust and modifying behavior. This approach, pioneered by Suzanne Clothier and further developed by trainers like Ian Dunbar, emphasizes rewarding a dog for approaching, even when the initial interaction is tense. This article explores the principles behind “Retreat ‘n Treat,” its application, and its effectiveness in transforming fearful dogs into more confident companions.
The “Retreat ‘n Treat” technique, a derivative of lure/reward training, involves strategically using high-value treats to encourage a fearful dog to move closer. Initially, the dog is enticed to retreat with less valuable rewards, such as kibble, creating a sense of safety and predictability. This is followed by a significant reward, like freeze-dried liver, for approaching the handler. This counter-intuitive strategy, where you ask the dog to do the opposite of what you ultimately desire, capitalizes on the dog’s natural inclination to investigate and engage with rewarding stimuli. The goal is to gradually decrease the dog’s “flight distance” – the proximity at which they feel threatened – and increase their comfort and willingness to interact.
Understanding the Fearful Dog’s Perspective
Fearful dogs, especially those that have bitten, often operate within a very specific safety zone. Any perceived intrusion into this zone, such as a handler moving too quickly or reaching out, can trigger a defensive response. A common mistake is to attempt to lure the dog closer by pushing a treat into their space. While the dog might take the treat, they often immediately retreat or even snap, indicating lingering stress. The “Retreat ‘n Treat” method avoids this by focusing on rewarding the dog’s own initiative to approach. It’s crucial to always have multiple treats readily available, so as one is consumed, another can be immediately offered, reinforcing the positive interaction.
The effectiveness of this method lies in its ability to build confidence. When a dog learns that approaching a human results in positive experiences and rewards, their overall confidence increases. Teaching basic cues like “sit” and “down stay” further reinforces prosocial behavior and can act as a “behavioral pacifier,” reducing anxiety and promoting calmness. This is particularly important for dogs who may not know how to regulate their behavior when stressed, leading to hyperactive tics or stereotypic behaviors. By establishing control through positive reinforcement, trainers foster happy and willing compliance, which is the cornerstone of ethical and effective dog training.
Assessing a Dog’s Willingness to Engage
A key indicator of a dog’s trainability and underlying emotional state is their willingness to accept food treats. During the “Retreat ‘n Treat” process, observing this interaction provides valuable insight:
- Treat Acceptance: If a dog readily takes treats from the trainer, training is likely to proceed smoothly and quickly. This suggests a manageable level of stress and an openness to the positive reinforcement being offered.
- Refusal from Both: A dog refusing treats from both the trainer and the owner indicates significant stress. In such cases, training must proceed very slowly, focusing on building a foundational sense of safety before attempting further interactions.
- Owner vs. Trainer Refusal: If a dog accepts treats from the owner but not the trainer, it suggests the dog is stressed specifically by the trainer’s presence. This necessitates an even slower approach, with the trainer being mindful of their own body language and proximity.
For classical conditioning and desensitization to be successful, a dog must readily accept a primary reinforcer. While praise and physical affection are desirable, they can sometimes increase anxiety in fearful dogs. Food treats, therefore, become the preferred reinforcer. If a dog accepts treats, there is a high probability of quickly modifying their behavior and temperament. However, if a dog consistently refuses treats, the training process can become exceptionally long and challenging. To maximize the chances of success, it is highly recommended to hand-feed the dog for at least a week before the initial training session, allowing them to become comfortable with the trainer and the act of receiving food. This foundational step can significantly improve the efficacy of the “Retreat ‘n Treat” method and other positive reinforcement techniques, paving the way for a trusting and compliant relationship.
The “Retreat ‘n Treat” method, while seemingly counter-intuitive, is a powerful tool for building trust and confidence in fearful and aggressive dogs. By understanding the dog’s perspective, using high-value rewards strategically, and patiently observing their responses, trainers can guide these dogs toward a more secure and positive future. This approach underscores the importance of empathy and positive reinforcement in modern dog training, moving away from outdated dominance-based methods.
Adapted from an article originally published in The Chronicle of the Dog — the Newsletter for the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (www.apdt.com).
©2006 Ian Dunbar
