In psychology, schedules of reinforcement refer to the patterns or timing of delivering reinforcements (rewards) after a particular behavior. These schedules play a crucial role in dog training as they influence the frequency and strength of learned behaviors. There are several types of reinforcement schedules, including:

1. Continuous Reinforcement Schedule:

   • Every occurrence of the desired behavior is reinforced.
   • Useful for initial learning and establishing a new behavior.

2. Partial (Intermittent) Reinforcement Schedules:

   • Reinforcement is not provided after every occurrence of the behavior.
   • This type is further divided into various subtypes, including:
     • Fixed Ratio (FR): Reinforcement occurs after a fixed number of responses. For example, every 5 tricks performed.
     • Variable Ratio (VR): Reinforcement occurs after a variable number of responses. For example, treats given randomly after 3, 7, or 10 tricks.
     • Fixed Interval (FI): Reinforcement is provided after a fixed amount of time has passed since the last reinforcement. For instance, a treat every 2 minutes.
     • Variable Interval (VI): Reinforcement is provided after a variable amount of time has passed since the last reinforcement. For example, a treat given randomly after 1, 4, or 6 minutes.

Application in Dog Training:

• Continuous Reinforcement: Useful for quickly establishing a new behavior. For example, when teaching a dog a new command.

• Fixed Ratio: Effective for maintaining a behavior with a predictable number of repetitions. For instance, in agility training where the dog performs a set number of obstacles before receiving a reward.

• Variable Ratio: Creates a strong resistance to extinction, making the behavior more persistent. This is often used in obedience training where the dog is rewarded randomly for following commands.

• Fixed Interval: Can be applied in training sessions where a behavior is reinforced after a specific time interval has passed.

• Variable Interval: Useful for preventing the dog from predicting when reinforcement will be given, promoting consistent performance.

The choice of reinforcement schedule depends on the specific training goals, the behavior being targeted, and the individual characteristics of the dog. It's important to note that positive reinforcement is generally recommended in dog training as it strengthens desired behaviors without the use of punishment.

We at Camp Ruff Ruff almost always starts with continuous reinforcement (instilling new behaviors) then as fast as possible onto a variable reinforcement schedule (think slot machine at the casino).