Which type of reward is considered a Secondary Reward?

Which type of reward is considered a Secondary Reward?

• A. Scented reward object from source
• B. Food that is given after a task
• C. Unscented reward object from handler
• D. Treats from a previous training session

Answer: (C)

A secondary reward is typically something that does not have inherent value but is conditioned through association with a primary reinforcer, such as food or praise. It becomes valuable to the dog because it consistently occurs after a primary reward or reinforces a desired behavior. An unscented reward object from the handler qualifies as a secondary reward because it may not inherently appeal to the dog but has been associated with pleasurable experiences through training. For instance, if the dog receives praise or a treat after interacting with the unscented object, it reinforces the dog's behavior, making the object more desirable in the future. Thus, through association, the unscented object gains value as a reward, fitting the definition of a secondary reward. On the other hand, other options such as a scented reward object from source, food given after a task, or treats from a previous training session are either primary rewards (food, for example) or tied closely to a specific, rewarding experience that has not been indicated as a conditioned response by itself.

A secondary reward is typically something that does not have inherent value but is conditioned through association with a primary reinforcer, such as food or praise. It becomes valuable to the dog because it consistently occurs after a primary reward or reinforces a desired behavior.

An unscented reward object from the handler qualifies as a secondary reward because it may not inherently appeal to the dog but has been associated with pleasurable experiences through training. For instance, if the dog receives praise or a treat after interacting with the unscented object, it reinforces the dog's behavior, making the object more desirable in the future. Thus, through association, the unscented object gains value as a reward, fitting the definition of a secondary reward.

On the other hand, other options such as a scented reward object from source, food given after a task, or treats from a previous training session are either primary rewards (food, for example) or tied closely to a specific, rewarding experience that has not been indicated as a conditioned response by itself.