In 'Don't Shoot the Dog,' Karen Pryor unveils the captivating principles of animal training that can be applied to everyday human interactions. With humor and insight, she demonstrates how positive reinforcement can transform behavior without resorting to punishment. This book prompts readers to reconsider their approaches to communication, learning, and motivation. Pryor's engaging anecdotes make complex psychological concepts accessible and relatable. Whether you're a pet owner or simply interested in human behavior, this book offers profound lessons that challenge conventional wisdom.
By Karen Pryor
Published: 2019
"The most effective way to change behavior is to change the environment."
Karen Pryor’s clear and entertaining explanation of behavioral training methods made Don’t Shoot the Dog a bestselling classic with revolutionary insights into animal—and human—behavior. In her groundbreaking approach to improving behavior, behavioral biologist Karen Pryor says, “Whatever the task, whether keeping a four-year-old quiet in public, housebreaking a puppy, coaching a team, or memorizing a poem, it will go fast, and better, and be more fun, if you know how to use reinforcement.” Now Pryor clearly explains the underlying principles of behavioral training and reveals how this art can be applied to virtually any common situation. And best of all, she tells how to do it without yelling threats, force, punishment, guilt trips—or shooting the dog. From the eight methods for putting an end to all kinds of undesirable behavior to the ten laws of “shaping” behavior, Pryor helps you combat your own addictions and deal with such difficult problems as a moody spouse, an impossible teen, or an aged parent. Plus, there’s also incredibly helpful information on house training the dog, improving your tennis game, keeping the cat off the table, and much more! “In the course of becoming a renowned dolphin trainer, Karen Pryor learned that positive reinforcement…is even more potent that prior scientific work had suggested…Don’t Shoot the Dog looks like the very best on the subject—a full-scale mind-changer” (The Coevolution Quarterly). Learn why pet owners rave, “This book changed our lives!” and how these pioneering techniques can work for you, too.
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“The most effective way to change behavior is to change the environment.”
Don't Shoot the Dog
By Karen Pryor
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Karen Pryor is an acclaimed author and pioneering figure in the field of animal training and behavior. She is best known for her books, including 'Don't Shoot the Dog!', which has become a seminal text in positive reinforcement training, and 'Reaching the Animal Mind', which explores the cognitive abilities of animals. With a background in biology and a passion for science communication, Pryor's writing combines rigorous research with practical application, making her insights accessible to both professionals and pet owners alike. Her engaging and informative style reflects her dedication to improving animal welfare through understanding and effective training techniques.
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