The Complete Dog Training Glossary: 100+ Essential Terms
Understanding your dog starts with learning their language. We built this glossary using 16 years of professional, force-free behavior consulting at Camp Ruff Ruff. Every definition is grounded in modern science and matches the practical framework we use with our clients daily. Skip the confusing jargon—here is exactly how your dog learns, thinks, and communicates.
The Complete Dog Training Glossary: 100+ Essential Terms
There are currently 6 names in this directory beginning with the letter L.
Law of Effect.
Edward Lee Thorndike, the first important animal researcher observed through his research what is now known as the ‘law of effect’. It states that ‘any behavior which is accompanied by satisfying and agreeable consequences maybe repeated and those which are followed by undesirable consequences will most probably be terminated.’
Learned helplessness
Learned helplessness in dog training occurs when a dog, subjected to repeated and unavoidable negative experiences, becomes passive and accepts unfavorable situations without attempting to escape or avoid them. It is associated with punishment-based training methods and is discouraged in favor of positive reinforcement approaches that promote active learning and a positive relationship between the dog and the trainer.
See Aversive Training Can Cause Fallout for more...
LIMA
In dog behavior training, "LIMA" stands for "Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive." It's an approach that emphasizes using the least intrusive and minimally aversive methods possible to address behavior issues in dogs. LIMA promotes humane and effective training techniques, prioritizing the well-being of the dog and avoiding methods that cause fear, pain, or discomfort whenever possible. Trainers following the LIMA approach consider the individual dog's temperament, history, and learning style to determine the most appropriate and least invasive training methods for achieving desired behavior changes.
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