Scientific Foundations of the Hundeo App
The Hundeo app specializes in holistic and reward-based training for dogs. The app provides a platform that helps dog owners train their dogs effectively and scientifically. Understanding the scientific foundations is crucial to ensure training effectiveness. This article examines the scientific methods and studies that form the basis for the training approaches used in the app.
Reward-Based vs. Aversive Methods
One of the most important aspects in modern dog training is the use of reward-based methods, also known as "Positive Reinforcement". Aversive methods are training approaches that use unpleasant stimuli to suppress unwanted behavior.
The study by Ana Catarina Vieira de Castro et al. (1) supports the effectiveness of reward-based methods. It shows that aversive methods can increase cortisol levels in dogs, a clear indicator of stress. Therefore, reward-based training is more stress-free and positive for the dog and its well-being.
Clicker Training and Operant Conditioning
Clicker training is a special form of positive reinforcement and an example of "Operant Conditioning", a learning process in which behavior is strengthened or weakened through rewards or punishments.
Clicker training works by using a special sound (the "click") as a signal for an upcoming reward. A study by Rachel J. Gilchrist et al. (2) confirms the effectiveness of clicker training and emphasizes clear and consistent communication between the dog and the trainer. This study also shows that other communication methods, such as a marker word, are effective.
Frequency and Consistency of Rewards
The frequency and consistency of rewards are crucial for training success. A study by Giulia Cimarelli et al. (3) from 2020 investigated how partial rewards in clicker training affect the learning speed and emotional state of dogs.
The study concluded that partial rewards neither improve learning speed nor have a positive influence on the emotional state of dogs. On the contrary, they can even cause a negative emotional state.
Based on these findings, Hundeo integrates consistent reward repetitions into the app to ensure more effective and emotionally positive training.
Dominance and Cognitive Learning in Dog Training
The traditional concept of dominance in dog training is viewed critically in current scientific research. According to a study by John W.S. Bradshaw et al. (4), the term "dominance" is often misunderstood and should not be described as a character trait of an individual dog.
Instead of focusing on dominance, the authors suggest that associative learning and the subjective value of a resource could offer better explanations for dog behavior. Associative learning refers to learning through association or linking of two events.
In this context, the Hundeo app offers a modern approach to dog training. Instead of using outdated and potentially misleading concepts like dominance, the app relies on scientifically based methods that focus on cooperation, associative learning, and strengthening the bond between human and dog.
By integrating these insights, Hundeo enables more effective, stress-free, and emotionally positive training for the dog and its well-being. This underscores the importance of modern, research-based approaches in dog training and shows how technology and science can work hand in hand to revolutionize dog training.
Gamification and Learning
The use of gamification elements in learning environments has gained importance in recent years. Gamification refers to the application of game elements in a non-game-based context.
A meta-analysis by Sailer and Homner (5) confirms that gamification can make learning more effective by increasing motivation. Hundeo builds on this by providing a variety of gamification elements such as confetti, trophies, and progress indicators for each successfully completed exercise to increase the dog owner's motivation.
The Role of Technology and Future Research
The integration of technology into dog training offers new possibilities for effective training. Apps like Hundeo can help individualize the training process and better track progress.
Through machine learning, the app can analyze the dog owner's preferences and the challenges of each individual dog and adjust training accordingly.
In future research projects conducted in collaboration with Hundeo, the focus will be on the long-term effects of gamification elements specifically in dog training and the application of machine learning to individualize training.
Developed Together with Experts
Hundeo was developed in close collaboration with renowned experts. Working with professionals ensures that the app is based on solid knowledge and proven practices.
- Health and Care: Veterinarian Mag. med. vet. Emin Jasarevic
- Nutrition: Nutritionist Julia Neumann
- Training: Dog trainers Melanie Fydrich, Anja Boecker, Saskia Schmöker
- Trick Dog: Sonja Heidbrink and Kira Schreiter
- Puppy Topics: Breeder Caroline Zeidler
Conclusion
The Hundeo app is based on a series of scientific studies and methods aimed at enabling effective and sustainable dog training. The app's multidisciplinary approach shows promising results for modern dog training.
The combination of technology and scientific research has the potential to revolutionize the way we train our dogs. We update this article annually to reflect the latest scientific findings and also plan independent studies in these areas.
Sources
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Vieira de Castro, A. C., Fuchs, D., Morello, G. M., Pastur, S., de Sousa, L., & Olsson, I. A. S. (2020). Does training method matter? Evidence for the negative impact of aversive-based methods on companion dog welfare. Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 40, 69-75. PubMed
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Gilchrist, R. J., et al. (2019). The click is not the trick: the efficacy of clickers and other reinforcement methods in training naïve dogs to perform new tasks. Journal of Applied Animal Behavior Science, 45, 123-130. PLOS ONE
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Cimarelli, G., Schoesswender, J., Vitiello, R., Huber, L., & Virányi, Z. (2021). Partial rewarding during clicker training does not improve naïve dogs' learning speed and induces a pessimistic-like affective state. Animal Cognition, 24, 107-119. Springer
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Bradshaw, J. W. S., Blackwell, E. J., & Casey, R. A. (2009). Dominance in domestic dogs—useful construct or bad habit? Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 4(3), 135-144. ScienceDirect
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Sailer, M., & Homner, L. (2018). The gamification of learning: A meta-analysis. Educational Psychology Review, 30(2), 419-436. ResearchGate
