Most dog trainers / handlers / owners that have been training dogs for 20 years or more will have started out using
punitive training methods.
It is clear from the studies available so far the fear is closely associated
with punitive training methods, even when non physical punishment is involved.
Meanwhile, dog trainers and behavior consultants who are still steeped in
using punitive training methods commonly use outdated terms such as «dominance,» «pack leader,» and «alpha dog,» all of which have been proven by canine behavior scientists and specialists to be inappropriate and completely inaccurate in their application to pet dogs.
For decades «Prussian school» domination rituals and
punitive training drove dogs and humans crazy, until dolphin trainer Karen Pryor in Don't Shoot the Dog (1984) revived attention to behavioral science and revolutionized how many dog trainers looked at dogs.
Though Sabine always enjoyed good relationships with her cats, dogs, horses, and parrots, she was left wishing for
less punitive training techniques.
Some people argue that a heavier hand is needed for tougher dogs while others say that positive training methods are the only methods that should be used on these dogs,
as punitive training causes confrontation and confrontation exacerbates aggressive response.
In an effort to replace the «choke collar» and
punitive training devices with a kinder and gentler alternative, he co-invented the Gentle Leader (the first head halter for dogs) and later helped to create the Easy Walk Harness.
Dog trainers who are still steeped in using
punitive training methods are often known to use outdated terms such as «dominance,» «pack leader,» and «alpha dog,» all of which have been proven by canine behavior scientists and specialists to be inappropriate and inaccurate in their application to pet dogs.
Pillar # 2 — Avoidance of Punitive Methods Scientific studies have shown that the use of confrontational,
punitive training techniques on dogs not only does not work long term, but actually exacerbates aggressive response and makes already aggressive dogs even more aggressive.
Punitive training is inhumane, frequently results in an unhappy dog, and does not work long term.
Positive training has proven to be a much more effective, safer and humane way of teaching dogs than
punitive training methods and while ultimately every person has the right to choose what techniques they use, the evidence is clear.
Punitive training methods are having a profound affect on our canine companions, making them more insecure, unable to communicate and more aggressive as a result.