A Conversation with Jennifer Rueli, Lead Instructor at Spot On Academy

When it comes to training your dog, there’s one method that leads the pack… it is what’s known as positive reinforcement training. At The Good Dog Spot, we believe in training that supports not just obedience but a strong, trusting relationship between you and your dog. 

No one champions this philosophy better than Jen, our Lead Instructor at Spot On Academy. With a wealth of credentials, including Certified Professional Animal Care Manager (CPACM) and ABC-Certified Dog Trainer, Jen is passionate about educating both pets and their people. We recently sat down with Jen for a chat about positive based dog training.

What is positive-based training?

It’s when you reinforce the behaviors you want to see. The goal is to reward good behavior rather than focus on punishing the bad. 

What does this look like?

This method avoids corrections, physical handling, or even unintended positive attention for unwanted behaviors. For instance, if a dog jumps up on you, ignoring the dog completely can be more effective than scolding. Then the moment all four paws are on the floor again, that’s when you mark the behavior either with a clicker or a simple word like “Yes” followed by a treat or praise.

Is this type of training only about how the owner acts (or reacts) or is there more to it?

It’s the actions PLUS communication and consistency. It is important to have clear, consistent communication with your dog. That means everyone in the household should be using the same cues (ex: a marker word or a clicker) and rewarding with praise or treats. This helps the dog understand what’s expected and builds confidence in their ability to succeed. She likes to remind humans that every dog has a choice. It’s our job to give them the opportunity to make the right one.

What are some tips for common dog behaviors like barking, chewing, or digging?

First it’s important to recognize these are self-rewarding behaviors for your dog. Next, instead of eliminating them completely, we recommend finding acceptable alternatives. One example, for a doggy digger is to give them a dedicated place to dig (ask Jen to share how she did this for one of her dogs). 

Okay, but what about Barky Bogart the Boston Terrier? Jen recalls working with one dog whose family learned to acknowledge the barking with gratitude followed by transitioning the dog into a comfortable, quiet routine. By allowing your pup these few barks before redirecting with a thank you and a cue to go to bed; hopefully (like this client) life will become more enjoyable for both you and your fur-baby. 

Why does positive based training have such a great impact?

One of the most powerful aspects of this approach to training is that it’s rooted in mutual respect. Instead of reprimanding, which is often the go-to response for humans, positive-based training celebrates what the dog is doing right. It encourages a better way of interacting, not just with dogs but potentially with each other as well. One of Jen’s favorite examples to share comes from The Big Bang Theory, where Sheldon rewards Penny with chocolates for good behavior. “Imagine if we all treated each other that way,” she says with a laugh.

At The Good Dog Spot, Jen follows the Human Hierarchy and adheres to the LIMA Approach which stands for Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive methods. This means all training is rooted in empathy, respect, and science-based strategies that prioritize a dog’s well-being.

What are some training no-no’s?

We are strongly against using aversive tools or punishment-based methods. These often lead to fear, avoidance, and even aggression. The goal of training your dog should be to build a bond which will improve behavior, these negative methods do not work. Instead you want your dog to feel safe and motivated to learn.

What should someone look for when exploring dog training?

Jen recommends doing your research:

• Ask about a trainer’s education and certifications because sadly the field is not well regulated. 
• Ask your friends – word of mouth has been a tried and true method for ages. 
• Look for online resources from respected professionals like Karen Pryor, who offers a wealth of content on clicker training and positive reinforcement.

Any additional information you’d like to share? 

• In our world today, there are more triggers than ever for dogs (all the beeping, buzzing, and hustling) – it’s important to remember it is okay to slow down with your dog and give them the space and time they need to learn. 
• Dogs, like people, are always learning (no matter their age). It’s a myth that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks. Learning is lifelong for all species.

Spot On Canine Academy and Spots Tots are now available two days a week in both Good Dog Spot locations (Northampton: Monday & Tuesday, Chicopee: Wednesday & Thursday). For more information visit our website or email Jen directly at jennifer@gooddogspot.net. 

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to reinforce the good habits your dog already has, remember this: with the right approach, training can be fun, rewarding, and truly transformative—for both ends of the leash.

Jennifer Rueli 

• TGDS Spot On Academy Lead Instructor
• Mom to 5 dogs
• Certified Professional Animal Care Manager (CPACM)
• ABC-Certified Dog Trainer
• Certified Instructor, #2709
• Pet Tech-First Aid/CPR
• Fear Free Certified Professional