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Training Methods

There are many different methods when it comes to training dogs and everyone has a different idea for the best techniques to use, but what is now becoming clear to much of the dog loving public is that even though there is more than one way to train a dog, there is a right way and a wrong way.

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.

It comes down to not only what is morally and ethically correct, but also what is safer. 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. Positive training teaches a dog to cooperate, while punitive training teaches a dog to respond through domination. There might be differences in opinion on what techniques to use but there is no arguing with fact.

But within the umbrella of positive training, there is no one size fits all! There are many great methods that can be utilized with positive training and while there is only one true philosophy to follow, there are numerous techniques that can be used to help dogs learn within the parameters of the positive philosophy. These include but are not limited to:

• Lure and reward training
• Clicker training
• Shaping
• Catching behavior
• Choice training