# Episode 25: Variable Reinforcement

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/canine-connection-podcast-7356214/episode-25-variable-reinforcement
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/canine-connection-podcast-7356214/episode-25-variable-reinforcement.md
Podcast: [Canine Connection Podcast](https://stenobird.com/podcast/canine-connection-podcast-7356214)
Published: 2026-01-12T23:14:00+00:00
Episode link: https://rss.com/podcasts/canine-connection-podcast/2452778
Audio file: https://content.rss.com/episodes/344164/2452778/canine-connection-podcast/2026_01_10_21_12_58_d8fee65a-ecd2-4ac0-be13-c30e66baebda.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/canine-connection-podcast-7356214/episodes/episode-25-variable-reinforcement
Duration seconds: 3356

## Resource

In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, Petra and Laurie dive into the concept of variable reinforcement in dog training. They discuss the importance of unpredictability in reinforcement, how to recognize and address struggles in dogs, and the role of cookies in training. The conversation emphasizes building confidence through challenges, creating self-reinforcing behaviors, and the need for mindfulness in reinforcement strategies. They also explore the impact of predictability on performance and provide practical strategies for implementing a variable reinforcement schedule. The episode concludes with insights on teaching through confidence and the importance of planning in training sessions. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Understanding Variable Reinforcement 02:43 The Importance of Unpredictability in Training 05:51 The Role of Struggle in Learning 08:26 Building Confidence Through Variable Reinforcement 11:11 Creating Self-Reinforcing Behaviors 14:05 Mindfulness in Reinforcement 16:55 The Power of Surprise in Training 19:57 Managing Expectations in Training 22:40 The Balance of Reinforcement 25:22 Teaching Through Tricks 28:18 The Mindset Shift in Training 31:02 Using Praise as Reinforcement 33:50 Planning Your Reinforcement Schedule 36:33 Avoiding Predictability in Training 39:28 Encouraging Persistence in Dogs 42:13 The Journey to Variable Reinforcement 45:03 Final Thoughts on Training Mindfulness FOLLOW US: https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast PETRA: https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/ www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com LAURIE: https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025

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## Transcript

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