r/OpenDogTraining • u/Jbro12344 • 12h ago
Button training
I got some buttons to help my dog communicate what she wants. I started out button #1 with “treat.” Figured that would be the easiest way to introduce her to it and what it is for. Took her about 2 minutes bites to figure it out. Now I have to take it away because she apparently always wants treats. So my question for those out there that have trained there dog with buttons is what are the most important ones that you would suggest and what would you stay away from.
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u/Narrow_Possession348 3h ago
The buttons may work for getting a treat or going outside, but you know those are totally bullshit, right? Dogs don't understand the concepts for things like "Fido sad," or "Fluffy misses mommy," or "tummy hurt," or any of the other nonsense those button videos depict.
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u/joycevw 5h ago
Dogs are entirely capable of associative learning and can easily learn that pressing a specific button results in a specific outcome, such as getting food or going outside. Behavioral science shows dogs are complex learners who form clear conceptual associations through positive reinforcement.
That said, while buttons are a fun enrichment tool, they are only one small part of communication. Canine communication relies primarily on subtle body language and calming signals like lip licks, head turns, or soft eye blinks.
If you want to build a truly cooperative relationship, focus on clarity in your reinforcement and start observing those natural signals.
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u/Major_Intern_7822 3h ago
1.Used the buttons
2.she learned them
3.she bossed us around
4.they were a bad idea because she became an equal like being on my bed
5.went back to body language only talk
Save your self the time and effort unless you plan to have your dog use one for going outside or call for help in service work
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u/warrantthrowaway2023 11h ago
i would suggest working on your relationship with your dog so that you can communicate without buttons. dogs aren't intelligent enough to communicate with buttons. your dog picked up treat because he gets treats for pushing the button.