Developing your positive marker

A positive marker communicates to the dog that the behavior is one that results in a reinforcer (food). Any behavior that’s frequently reinforced builds a reinforcement history, which means the dog is more likely to offer it and more comfortable doing it when we ask.

Food is the reinforcer we use most often in training because it’s typically smoother and more functional than using toys and play. We don’t use praise or physical affection as reinforcers because studies have shown that they don’t work well in that context (they are valuable, just not for reinforcing behavior!).

A positive marker—for us, that will be “yes”—signals that the dog has done the behavior we’re looking for and that the reinforcer (food) is coming. A reinforcer must always follow the “yes” marker! Think about it as a contract; if you say “yes” you’re obligated to follow that up with a reinforcer (food).

One thing you must pay attention to is the order in which you mark and reinforce. In order for “yes” to hold predictive value (in order for it to predict food), we must mark “yes” first, then reach for the food and then deliver it to your dog. If you have food in your hand already, mark “yes” first, then reach down to deliver it. Try to avoid marking and delivering simultaneously!

Remember: Yes ➡️ Reach ➡️ Reinforce

I’m not one to fuss over the details, but this is a detail that truly matters. A clear (or unclear) positive marker can make or break your training success.

I highly recommend watching this short video and practicing the demonstrated exercise. It helps!

Note: The video below uses the term “reward” instead of “reinforcer.” I’m moving away from using the term “reward” because “reinforcer” is far more accurate.