Dog training, dog treats, and dog handling techniques!

If we don’t want shock, choke, and prong collars to be used on dogs — and we don’t! What do we want? Dog training, dog treats, and dog handling techniques!

I don’t like to give too much air time to outdated techniques, but I will point out that the professional organizations I belong to all have clear statements against using these methods

Here's the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants saying this is a very science-y, behavior-y way:

“The IAABC strongly opposes the intentional use of aversive stimuli and methods, especially those that rely upon pain, fear, or intimidation. The IAABC stands against the use of shock in the intentional, purposeful application of behavioral contingencies.”

American Veterinary Society of Animal Behaviorists (AVSAB), "recommends that only reward-based training methods are used for all dog training, including the treatment of behavior problems." in its position statement on Humane Dog Training Methods.

The Pet Professional Guild takes a strong stance. It established the Shock-Free Coalition.

Dr. Zazie Todd of Companion Animal Psychology blog and author of Bark! The Science of Helping Your Anxious, Fearful, or Reactive Dog on The Double-Advantage of Reward-Based Training — "The science of dog training shows risks to canine welfare from aversive methods, and positive benefits from using rewards"

Dog trainer Victoria Stilwell of Victoria Stilwell Academy and Positively Take a Stand — An Important Statement on Training Practices with an "unwavering" stance against aversive methods and tools.

And here's dog trainer Susan Garrett addressing the effectiveness of R+ methods for training challenges.

Even organizations like the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers who've come under fire have some clear restrictions in their Prohibited Practices Policy that might surprise the average dog owner, flagging the use of debunked dominance hierarchy language and alpha theory and not allowing aversive tools on young dogs or for basic obedience and manners training, for example.

"If the trainer focuses on a model of dominance and submission—using language like “dominant” and “alpha” —or uses primarily punishment based methods, that trainer doesn’t meet the standards of science-based training." — CCDPT, How to Choose a Dog Trainer: Beware of Red Flags

When I encounter people using these tools they are often looking for quick solutions to big problems: A little dog barking in an apartment. A big dog pulling a vulnerable person down on lead.

We know everyone is doing the best they can with the information they have. Let’s give each other some grace, while acknowledging that you can’t stream, download, dash, or insta animal learning or animal trust.

My concern is that tools that cause unpleasantness (and pain) are known to make problems worse and damage your relationship with your dog. A person who has two little dogs, one who snaps at new people, hires an expensive trainer whose method is to shock the dogs, and ends up with two little dog who want to bite new people. That's malpractice.

The science is clear. Rewards-based training works. Aversive methods have risks. Credentialed professionals know this.

Will work for treats!

So, what do we want?

Dog Training Let's teach dogs how best to live with us. Dogs do what works. Let’s make sure the behaviors we want work for our dogs. Teach your dog skills they can use at home and on walks to be more confident, at ease, playful, and safe out in the world.

Dog Treats! Reinforce behaviors you like and you will get more of those behaviors. You can call this your dog’s paycheck, their meal on the go, or their just reward. Yes, you can use toys, play, real life rewards, and affection, too. But, also, why not use treats?! Everyone needs to eat! Think about the warm feelings you may have towards your favorite restaurant, your grandmother’s cookies, the person who brings cake into the office, the best dish at the potluck, a holiday meal, or even the drive thru treat that gets you through a Tuesday. You can be all that to your dog – and we’re talking by using pea-sized tasty training treats. Be generous. Give jackpots. Don’t be stingy about really important behaviors like coming when called.

Dog Handling Techniques Learning some handling techniques and being prepared when walking your dog can go a long way toward making everyone feel a lot more comfortable. Do you know what you will do when an off leash dog runs at you? What if your dog suddenly pulls toward a squirrel? What if a jogger is about to pass too close to your nervous dog? Make a plan and practice it so both you and your dog are ready. A trainer can help.

Do you need some help with dog training and dog handling techniques? Book an initial consult and let's get started. Training will be fun for you and your dog!

Your Initial Consult

Book Now