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Basic Training: A Quick Guide to Teaching Your Bird the "Step-Up" Command

By Alyson Burgess, About.com

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Step 4: Praise Your Bird for Completing the Command

Rewards for completing commands are a good way to give your feathered friend a goal to work toward. Photo (c) 2005 Alyson Burgess licensed to About.com, Inc.

Birds, like other pets, need to be rewarded when they successfully complete a task. This is what allows the bird to realize that he has done what you wanted him to do. You should always remember to lavish praise on your bird whenever he achieves even the smallest of victories.

Provide Plenty of Yummy Treats:

Birds can and often do think with their stomachs. Offer your bird a tasty fruit, veggie, or other treat to reward him for a job well done. Make sure to avoid any treats that could be toxic or poisonous to your pet.

Present Your Bird with a Favorite Toy:

Some bird owners prefer to reward their pets with playtime. If you choose to try this method, you should designate a special link text to be used only as a reward for good training sessions. This will allow the bird to recognize that time with the toy is a reward for desirable behavior.

Birds that receive lots of positive reinforcement during training most always end up being fast learners and eager students. Make sure that you always convey your support to your bird by not missing a chance to let him know that he's done a great job.

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