Glossary

Positive punishment

Adding something unpleasant right after a behavior to make that behavior less likely, such as a leash jerk or a startling noise.

Also called: P+ punishment, adding a consequence, correction

In operant conditioning "positive" means something is added and "punishment" means the behavior becomes less frequent. A leash correction, a shouted word, a spray of water or an electronic stimulation each add something the dog wants to avoid.

Whether something is punishment is judged by its effect on behavior, not by the owner's intention. Timing and intensity are hard to get right, and the dog may link the unpleasant event to the wrong thing, such as a nearby person or dog. Welfare organizations and veterinary behavior groups advise against relying on it because it can raise fear and stress and can damage trust.

It is not the same as clearly marking that a reward will not come, and it does not teach a dog what to do instead.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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Related terms

Negative punishment Removing something a dog wants right after an unwanted behavior so that the behavior becomes less likely. Aversive Anything a dog wants to avoid, from a leash pop or shock to a loud noise, when used to change behavior. Force-free A training approach that avoids pain, fear and intimidation and teaches dogs with rewards, patience and good management. Operant conditioning Learning in which a dog changes its behavior because of the consequences that follow it.