What is the second step in the 3 steps to change behavior?

• A. Visualize the behavior you do want
• B. Consistently & generously reward the dog for the behavior you do want
• C. Prevent the dog from being rewarded for the behavior you don't want
• D. Establish a punishment plan

Answer: (C)

The step is about removing reinforcement for the undesired behavior. In shaping behavior, actions that get attention, food, or other rewards tend to be repeated, while those that don’t pay off tend to fade. By preventing the dog from being rewarded for the behavior you don’t want, you weaken that behavior’s appeal and likelihood of occurring. This prepares the way for the next step, which is to reward the behavior you do want so it becomes the default response in the situation. It’s important to distinguish this from punishment; the goal here is to remove reinforcement, not to scare or physically discipline the dog. Visualizing the desired behavior first helps you know exactly what to reward once the undesired behavior is no longer reinforced.