Question

Saying “good dog” and patting your dog are used to reward appropriate behavior. Are each of these two actions on your part primary or conditioned reinforcers for your dog? What is the reasons for your designation of each? If you believe your action is a conditioned reinforcer, what led to it becoming a conditioned reinforcer? Note: Answer these questions for each action separately.

Answer 1

'Good dog' is according to me a conditioned reinforcer. Since, this is kind of a reward present in the form of appreciation and also the action involved can build up some added tendency of good behavior in future and eventually is a feeling of satisfaction both on the part of the owner and the dog. The elated dog is now motivated to perform that particular behavior more often now, as it will make the owner happy and the dog will get love and appreciation.

'Patting the dog' is in my opinion a primary reiforcer since it is done naturally without any intention and is just coming to appreciate the dog out of love, whether it has performed any desired behavior or not. Some reinforcers are quite natural and does not take place in order to make it more happen but for the safe of bringing happiness and just reciprocating the emotions.