Training Methods
It should not be radical to say teaching our dogs with fear or intimidation is an outdated and harmful approach. The science shows that this is not only likely to cause long term emotional harm to the dog and a recurrence of those “negative” behaviors, but that it is also unnecessary. When I say fear or intimidation this includes: choke collar, prong collar, shock collars, rolling the dog over, holding them down, hitting them, etc.
There is nothing I cannot help a dog and their owner with that I require the use of fear or intimidation. I certainly never use painful tools–and please don’t believe trainers that say these tools do not hurt or make the dog uncomfortable–because then they would not work as training tools in any way, so that is simply untrue and nonsensical. I have continuously, successfully, helped owners with their dogs behaviors—yes even reactivity. I say reactivity because true “aggression” is fairly rare, but I digress (that’s a future topic). There is no special “type” ‘or “breed” of dog or behavior that warrants using outdated methods. I don’t care if they are a bully breed, a shepherd, an “alpha” dog…it simply doesn’t matter because that is also categorically untrue. I do not need to treat different breeds with different training methods by using harsher methods on different types of dogs. Positive and science-backed methods work for every dog.
If I would not like someone to use a tool or method on a person, then it understandably extends (or should) to animals as well. I mean, especially dogs, our furry companions that have been bred to be with us working and living as “man’s best friend” for hundreds of years. I never want people to feel like they are at war with their dogs or need to be some tough and mean leader (aka bully).
As a pet owner, if you are ever uncomfortable with a method a trainer (or anyone) is using, you have a right to be your dog’s advocate and ask them to use a different method (if they are familiar or comfortable with the newest methods and science) or you can fire them and/or leave the situation. You and your dog should never feel uncomfortable in the name of training or behavior modification.
I have to note, because it comes up, that not once did I say that it does not work to use fear/intimidation to have a dog do (or not do) something. Of course fear and intimidation work. This has been proven throughout history to be true. The point here is that we can do better. We should do better. The results are consistently better with current science-backed methods. The dog’s emotional state is better. The relationships with owners and their dogs are better…and isn’t that the whole point?
Contact Kera for a behavior consultation or other support needs here: ccps.semn@gmail.com
