Dog Training Dog Trainer Test 1 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A dog consistently pulls on the leash during walks. Which training technique is most appropriate to address this behavior?
- Loose-leash walking with direction changes (Correct answer)
- Alpha rolling the dog when it pulls
- Using a retractable leash for more freedom
- Allowing the dog to pull until it tires out
Correct answer: Loose-leash walking with direction changes
Loose-leash walking with frequent direction changes teaches the dog that pulling does not lead to forward progress.
Question 2: What does the term 'extinction burst' refer to in dog training?
- A temporary increase in an unwanted behavior when reinforcement is removed (Correct answer)
- A dog losing interest in treats during training
- The point at which a dog fully learns a new command
- A sudden decrease in problem behaviors after training begins
Correct answer: A temporary increase in an unwanted behavior when reinforcement is removed
An extinction burst is a temporary escalation of a behavior when the dog realizes the previous reinforcement is no longer available.
Question 3: Which of the following is the best example of negative reinforcement in dog training?
- Releasing leash pressure when the dog sits (Correct answer)
- Giving a treat when the dog lies down
- Ignoring a dog that is barking for attention
- Using a clicker to mark desired behavior
Correct answer: Releasing leash pressure when the dog sits
Negative reinforcement involves removing an aversive stimulus to increase the likelihood of a behavior, such as releasing leash pressure upon compliance.
Question 4: A client reports that their dog becomes destructive only when left alone. What is the most likely underlying cause?
- Separation anxiety (Correct answer)
- Lack of obedience training
- Dominance behavior
- Teething in an adult dog
Correct answer: Separation anxiety
Destructive behavior occurring exclusively when the owner is absent is a hallmark sign of separation anxiety.
Question 5: When desensitizing a dog to thunderstorm sounds, what is the correct first step?
- Play recorded thunder sounds at a very low volume while the dog is relaxed (Correct answer)
- Expose the dog to a real thunderstorm while offering treats
- Play thunder sounds at full volume to show the dog it is harmless
- Confine the dog to a crate during storms until it stops reacting
Correct answer: Play recorded thunder sounds at a very low volume while the dog is relaxed
Desensitization begins with exposing the dog to the stimulus at a level low enough that it does not trigger a fear response.
Question 6: What is the primary purpose of a 'marker' in marker-based training?
- To precisely communicate the exact moment the dog performs the desired behavior (Correct answer)
- To signal the end of a training session
- To warn the dog that a correction is coming
- To get the dog's attention before giving a command
Correct answer: To precisely communicate the exact moment the dog performs the desired behavior
A marker, such as a clicker or verbal cue, pinpoints the exact instant the dog does the right thing, bridging the gap between behavior and reward.
A dog consistently pulls on the leash during walks.
Which training technique is most appropriate to address this behavior?