Dog Training Terms Every Pet Parent Should Know

Whether you're enrolling your pup in a professional training program or brushing up on techniques at home, understanding dog training terminology is essential. At A Peaceful Pack, we believe informed pet parents make the best training partners. Knowing the language helps you communicate clearly, set realistic goals, and work more effectively with your dog and their trainer.

This guide breaks down some of the most commonly used dog training terms—what they mean, how they apply, and why they matter in your journey to raising a well-behaved, confident pup.

1. Positive Reinforcement

Definition: Adding something desirable (like treats, praise, or play) to encourage a behavior to happen again.

Example: Giving your dog a treat after they sit when asked. The treat is the reward that reinforces the behavior.

Why it matters: This is one of the most popular and effective methods in modern dog training. It helps build trust and motivation.

2. Negative Reinforcement

Definition: Removing something the dog finds unpleasant to encourage a behavior.

Example: Releasing leash pressure when a dog stops pulling.

Why it matters: While the word “negative” can sound harsh, this method is about relief, not punishment. When done properly and ethically, it can clarify boundaries and improve responsiveness.

3. Positive Punishment

Definition: Adding something unpleasant to reduce the likelihood of a behavior happening again.

Example: Using a firm “No” or a leash correction when a dog jumps on someone.

Why it matters: This approach should always be used thoughtfully and with professional guidance. At A Peaceful Pack, we focus on balance—addressing unwanted behaviors while maintaining trust and safety.

4. Negative Punishment

Definition: Taking away something the dog wants to reduce an unwanted behavior.

Example: Turning away or withholding attention when your dog jumps up during greeting.

Why it matters: This method teaches impulse control and is a gentle way to reduce behaviors without adding pressure.

5. Marker Word / Clicker

Definition: A word (like “yes” or “good”) or a clicker sound used to mark the exact moment your dog performs the desired behavior.

Example: Saying “Yes!” the instant your dog sits, followed by a reward.

Why it matters: Markers create a clear communication bridge between the behavior and the reward. It’s all about timing—and dogs learn faster when they know exactly what earns them praise.

6. Threshold

Definition: The level of stimulation a dog can handle before reacting (e.g., barking, lunging, shutting down).

Example: A reactive dog may be calm 20 feet away from another dog but begins barking at 10 feet. That’s crossing their threshold.

Why it matters: Training below your dog’s threshold ensures learning happens in a calm state, which is essential for behavior modification.

7. Luring

Definition: Using a treat or toy to guide your dog into a desired position or behavior.

Example: Moving a treat above your dog’s nose to guide them into a sit.

Why it matters: Luring is a foundational technique in early training. It helps dogs learn without confusion and builds muscle memory.

8. Shaping

Definition: Reinforcing small steps that lead toward a final behavior.

Example: Rewarding a dog first for touching a cone, then for circling it, then for completing a full loop.

Why it matters: This is a powerful method for teaching complex behaviors or building confidence in fearful dogs.

9. Desensitization

Definition: Gradual exposure to a fear or trigger at low intensity to reduce the dog’s emotional response over time.

Example: Playing recordings of fireworks at low volume while feeding high-value treats.

Why it matters: Desensitization helps dogs overcome anxiety and fear-based behaviors in a controlled, safe way.

10. Counter-Conditioning

Definition: Changing your dog’s emotional response to a trigger by pairing it with something positive.

Example: Giving treats every time your dog sees another dog, turning what was once a fear into a happy association.

Why it matters: This method is often used alongside desensitization and is critical for long-term behavior transformation.

11. Impulse Control

Definition: Your dog’s ability to pause and think before acting.

Example: Waiting patiently at the door before being invited out.

Why it matters: Teaching impulse control is one of the pillars of a well-mannered dog. It builds self-regulation and calm behavior.

12. Recall

Definition: The command that tells your dog to come back to you—often life-saving.

Example: Saying “Come!” and having your dog return from across the yard.

Why it matters: A strong recall keeps your dog safe and gives them more freedom off-leash.

13. Generalization

Definition: Your dog’s ability to apply a learned behavior across different environments and distractions.

Example: Your dog knows “sit” at home but also responds at the park or vet’s office.

Why it matters: Dogs don’t automatically generalize. That’s why we train in a variety of settings at A Peaceful Pack to ensure real-world reliability.

14. Reactivity

Definition: Overreaction to certain stimuli (dogs, people, sounds), often due to fear, frustration, or lack of socialization.

Example: Barking and lunging at other dogs on walks.

Why it matters: Reactive behavior can be managed—and often improved—with structured training, consistency, and patience.

15. Proofing

Definition: Strengthening a behavior by practicing it in different environments, with distractions.

Example: Asking your dog to “stay” while kids run by or a ball rolls past.

Why it matters: Proofing turns “my dog listens sometimes” into “my dog listens everywhere.”

Why Knowing the Lingo Matters

When you’re familiar with training terminology, you can:

• Communicate more clearly with your trainer

• Track your dog’s progress more accurately

• Stay involved in your dog’s learning process

• Feel confident continuing training at home

At A Peaceful Pack, we love helping owners not only train their dogs but understand them. That’s why we take the time to explain the "why" behind every method we use.

Ready to Speak Your Dog’s Language?

Whether you’re just beginning your training journey or brushing up on advanced techniques, understanding these terms gives you a leg up. If you’re looking for personalized, compassionate training that puts your dog’s emotional and behavioral needs first, we’d love to work with you.

Contact us today to learn more about our Boarding & Training Program, and let’s bring peace, purpose, and clarity to your pack.