Definition 

Partial reinforcement is a central concept in dog training that is based on the principles of operant conditioning. It is a form of reinforcement (i.e. reward) in which the dog is not rewarded every time, but only sometimes. Partial reinforcement causes slower learning, but the behaviour is much more firmly anchored. 

If the dog is successful from time to time, the behaviour becomes very resistant to extinction and is sometimes shown more frequently by the dog in the future. Partial reinforcement can be used deliberately in dog training, or it can creep in accidentally if there is a lack of consistency. 

Deliberate use of partial amplification

In contrast to continuous reinforcement, in which every correct behaviour is reinforced immediately, partial reinforcement is reinforced irregularly or according to a certain pattern, which results in the dog maintaining the desired behaviour even without the prospect of immediate reinforcement.

• Example: You build up a desired behaviour such as the tight radius or "foot". At the beginning, you reward a lot and at regular intervals. As you progress, you vary the frequency of the reward and also the type of reward. This gives you more flexibility to not always be dependent on the reward and also helps you to have many types of rewards to fall back on. 

Unintentional partial amplification and its consequences

In dog training, a lack of consistency can lead to the dog displaying unwanted behaviour more frequently because it has experienced with you that the chances of its behaviour being successful are particularly exciting and desirable. 

• Example 1: One example is begging at the table. If you occasionally give your dog food scraps from the table while he is begging, he will learn that begging is sometimes rewarded. This can lead to persistent begging behaviour that is difficult to get rid of.  

• Example 2: You are on the lead with your dog and your dog starts to pull on the lead. You give the lead slightly. This unconscious and seemingly harmless giving of the lead can lead to your dog pulling on the lead more often in the future in the hope of getting his way - after all, he was successful with it before. 

Unwanted partial reinforcement often leads to unwanted and disruptive behaviour in the dog, which is difficult to change. This happens because the dog learns that its persistence is occasionally rewarded. As a dog owner, it is therefore crucial that you are attentive to your dog and remain consistent. You should reinforce desired behaviours and ignore or correct unwanted ones to prevent misunderstandings and maladaptive behaviour.

Conclusion

The deliberate use of partial reinforcement is a powerful tool in dog training. It not only promotes consistency and reliability of the desired behaviour, but also strengthens the bond between dog and owner through a deep understanding and trust. While continuous reinforcement is important in the initial stages of training to establish a behaviour, partial reinforcement allows this behaviour to be permanently reinforced. It makes learning more interesting and challenging for the dog and prevents blunting towards rewards. However, it is important that partial reinforcement is used purposefully and thoughtfully to avoid confusion or frustration in the dog. A lack of consistency in dog training, on the other hand, can inadvertently encourage partial reinforcement and thus promote unwanted behaviour. 

Ultimately, a well thought-out mix of different reinforcement methods is the key to a successful and happy life together with your dog.