How many times a day do you thank someone for doing a nice gesture?
Positive reinforcement is a weird theory in our society. It can be a little difficult to notice that someone is doing something "good." We are taught that "good" is the normal way to act. If we act out, punishment will happen to help stop the unwanted behavior.
Reinforcers are all around us though. We get paid from working. We have our comments "liked" on Facebook. We get compliments on new clothes. There are presents given to us on our birthdays.
We tend to reinforce others when it is expected, but it is not as prevalent during "normal" times when good behavior is expected.
What would happen if you were pulled over by a police officer when you were going the speed limit and given a gift certificate for a free lunch? Would you be more likely to continue following the law because of the chance that the good behavior award might happen again? Check out how a school in Pittsburgh is using positive reinforcement methods to lower behavior problems: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d2t--FqCZ74
Look for opportunities to give your dog the good behavior award. When you see something you like, click and treat. The more often you do this, the more often you will see the good behavior. This is very helpful in situations where anxiety and stress might be a little high (i.e., at the park or in a training class). If you are waiting try something in class and you would like your dog to "behave," catch those moments as much as possible. Let your dog know that you appreciate eye contact and focus on you while you are waiting to do something else or if another dog is attempting something new. It will calm yourself and your dog.
The graphic below gives a few examples of what to look for in calm, good behavior.
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