Aversive techniques are described as abusive, dominant, cruel, harsh, by opponents, and confident, assertive, alpha, strong, by proponents. Reward techniques are described as bribery, weak, misguided, being a slave to our dogs, by opponents, and kind, compassionate, scientific, learned, enlightened, by proponents. Each set of terms evoke different sets of emotions for exactly the same techniques.

So who is right and who is abusive? What works and what does not?

Emotional Awareness and Mindful Dog Training – Shiba Inu Sephy, our first dog.

Who Is Right and Who Is Abusive?

The thing to remember is that we ALL want to do the right thing. We all want to be happy, we all want what is best for ourselves and our dogs. However, when we ignore our emotions, we often let them lead us astray. Many popular arguments on dog training use learned emotional language to make their case, but contain logical fallacies. A common fallacy is when the premise(s) fail to support the proposed conclusion. The arguments are appealing because they always start with a clearly true premise, but the trick is that the conclusion does not follow from that premise. An example is –

My training technique has been used since the beginning, therefore, it must be effective/good/right.

This argument tries to use our love of tradition and ingrained tendency to revere the past. However, just because a technique has been used in the past does not make it better, more effective, or more right, than other methods. For example, we have ridden horses since the beginning, but it does not follow that horses are a better or more effective form of transportation. We also used leeches in the beginning, but that does not mean leeches are a better or more effective method of curing sickness and infection.

This is not to say that the conclusion is false, only that the argument is invalid, i.e., does not contribute anything to the discussion other than to misdirect and obscure the valid premises and valid arguments. Nevertheless, the emotions they evoke make those arguments convincing, so we believe them and continue repeating them to others.

The thing to remember is that we ALL want to do the right thing.

Other similar emotion based arguments include –

• This training technique is used by dogs or wolves on each other, therefore, it must be effective/good/right.
• These training techniques have worked on all of my dogs, therefore it must be effective/good/right.
• I use my training techniques on rescues and death-row dogs, therefore, it must be effective/good/right.
• Dogs are individuals and will respond differently to different motivators, therefore my training technique is more effective for some dogs.
• When used properly, my training technique is not abusive, therefore it is effective/good/right.

After we use a technique and have argued for it with others, we tend to stick to our convictions. Commitment to consistency is one of the key rules of influence described by Cialdini. Consistency builds trust and increases our chances of being accepted by others. These are useful for our survival, so they make us feel good. Furthermore, nobody likes being wrong because being wrong makes us feel guilt, pain, fear, and other uncomfortable emotions.

As a result, once we decide on the goodness or badness of something, our emotions make us resistant to changing our minds, even when confronted with overwhelming facts.

Siberian Husky Lara (a.k.a. JJ) is never afraid to be wrong or goofy. I miss you greatly my sweet girl.

Emotional Awareness

In truth, most discussions about dog training are really more about us and our emotions, rather than about our dog. Teaching or training a dog involves the dog and all the people around her. However, the dog is not the one reading up on training books or having online discussions, so really, the training is more about us, the primary caregivers.

Emotions are the mover of actions and they play a very significant role in our lives. Yet, we spend most of our time trying to avoid them because we perceive them to be bad, messy, and a sign of weakness. When we try to ignore or suppress our emotions, we prevent them from rising to our consciousness. By doing so, we give up our ability to override their prescribed action and become controlled by them. Emotions such as fear, pain, and anger, narrows our attention so that we lose our ability to see the big picture. I have been controlled by my frustration and anger many times, and these situations have a high cost.

Teaching or training a dog involves the dog and all the people around her.

For example, when a fellow Shiba friend introduced me to this new Mother Theory for dog training. I thought,

Here we go again, another self-proclaimed expert peddling the same baseless nonsense from 15 years ago, with statistics pulled out of his ass. Through the use of emotionally moving stories and language (like ‘mother’s love’), others will listen to him to the detriment of their dogs.

I was feeling frustrated and then angry. The Mother’s Love language combined with an emotionally repressive model of training (no talk, no touch, no emotion) brought up difficult memories of my own childhood. They also made me think about the dogs I had recently lost, especially Shania, who was my beloved and soul-mate. Our relationship was filled with talk, touch, and a lot of love, but also fear, pain, and suffering, when I lost her at the end. To avoid this pain, my very clever mind redirected me into using blame. Blame this new misguided theory, blame all the imaginary people who will believe it, blame myself for getting upset over it, do anything to redirect from the true source or true pain of the issue. At the base of this, is my own fear of suffering.

In this case, using unskillful speech and words such as misguided, baseless, and nonsense, will hardly endear me to anyone. In fact, it will likely anger many, result in retaliatory speech, cause more suffering, and do nothing to convince others’ of my position. On the contrary, it will push them farther away. Ultimately, responding with anger does nothing to help and creates a lot of suffering, not just for others but most of all for myself. It also closes my mind to new ideas and makes me emotionally brittle.

Emotional awareness – whenever I feel frustrated or angry, spending time with my dogs helps to calm me down.

Mindful Dog Training

Mindful dog training uses mindfulness techniques to insert our consciousness back into every step of the dog training process. When we are aware of our emotions, we can respond in a more healthy and helpful fashion, thereby not contributing to the suffering of self, dog, and others. Mindfulness is the practice of shifting our awareness repeatedly back to a given target object. Early mindfulness exercises focus attention on our breath, or on certain activities like walking or eating. In the beginning, our mind may be restless because we are used to avoiding our difficult emotions, worries, and thoughts. Fear or more generally aversion is a big force in my emotional landscape. As I described above, my fear of pain and suffering caused me to redirect to false objects, and to avoid fear with anger.

Mindful Dog Training – using mindfulness techniques to reinsert our consciousness back into every step of the dog training process.

I use mindfulness to focus awareness on my emotions, so that I can practice catching afflictive emotions such as fear, anger, and dissatisfaction, before they start to control me, narrow my focus, and cause me to act in unskillful ways. Once I am able to do this, I apply introspective awareness to try and identify, then process the actual root cause of my difficult emotions. In this way, I try to face my suffering, learn from them, weaken the problematic patterns, and free my mind from unnecessary pain. There are a variety of methods for emotional regulation using mindfulness, including the RAIN and RULER methods.

With mindful dog training, I try to be mindful of my emotions in everything that I do. Dogs are very sensitive to our emotions, and respond much better to a calm person than to a fearful or angry one.

• We stay mindful when reading up on dog training techniques so that we catch emotional arguments and any associated logical fallacies.
• We stay mindful when discussing dog training techniques so that we use skillful speech, do not force our opinions onto others, and do not create more suffering for ourselves or others. We apply skillful listening and carefully evaluate new training techniques.
• We stay mindful when deciding which dog training techniques to experiment with our dog so that we make the best decision, picking the techniques that have the greatest chance of success and lowest risk.
• We stay mindful when training our dog so that we remain calm and stable. Emotions are contagious so this will have a calming effect on our dog. Similarly, fear, excitement, or anger, can hype our dog up and worsen his behavior.
• We stay mindful when evaluating the results of a dog training technique so that we make proper adjustments when necessary. If the results are unsatisfying, we are courageous enough to try something else.
• We stay mindful when we make mistakes so that we learn as much from them as possible and apply our knowledge in future training exercises.

Dogs are very sensitive to our emotions, and respond much better to a calm person than to a fearful or angry one.

In dog training, our emotions greatly affect our dog and our dog’s emotions will also affect us. Our job is to regulate afflictive emotions so that we can balance out our dog, especially if she has had difficult past experiences or abuse that cause emotional instability. Instead of letting our emotions control us, we remain emotionally aware, consciously regulate our emotions, increase our understanding of self, and cultivate positive mental states and habits. Staying mindful and facing my emotions is not easy, but it is the best thing I ever did for myself. Facing my emotions, pain, and fears allow me to think anything, feel anything, remember anything, and attain limitless mental freedom. Facing fear opens up the way to love, happiness, wisdom, and liberation.

Facing fear opens up the way to love, happiness, wisdom, and liberation.

Hi Shibashake.

I really enjoyed reading this, including all the comments. I also appreciate very much your inclusion of the Polski and Schalke studies. It is refreshing to see legitimate citations of actual controlled studies regarding a topic so incendiary as this one. I’m very curious as to why you didn’t find other studies, particularly the 1983 Tortora study, worth mentioning?

My 7yr old Bull Terrier has been my companion and my pride&joy for the past year. She is deaf, and she has some “instrumental” dog-aggression issues, as well as a prey-drive that can only be described as cartoonishly over-the-top. She doesn’t know the difference between a goat vs a cat vs a running valet vs a child on a tricycle vs a piece of trash blowing in the wind: if it looks like its running from her, she MUST get it… even straight into traffic. Deafness completely aside–there is no communicating with her when she goes into this “zone”. You may as well try to communicate with a cannonball en route.

I am concerned about her stress levels, and after reading your blog I am keenly aware of how difficult it must be to apply shock-training competently. I am also keenly aware of the unnecessary stress created by these behaviors (it is nerve-racking for her AND me). I’m trying to decide which outweighs the other. Her aggression issues seem to be diminishing over time as I learn more about pack-dynamics, but the intensity of the prey drive and tunnel-vision focus that accompany it remain overpowering.

After a year of deliberating, reading, and weeding out the namby-pamby appeals to emotion (“poor, poor dogs, evil, evil humans”) as well as the neanderthalic appeals to cowboy-complexes (“gotta show the dog who’s boss!”) I have decided that the vibration-signal feature is a must for us, but I’m still open to rational discourse regarding the shock feature. I would love to hear your thoughts on the Tortora study 🙂
~~[RUFTY]

Tortora’s 1983 Study

Tortora’s 1983 study consists of 3 experiments. The one most talked about in shock collar discussions is the “safety training” experiment (Exp 2). Some proponents of shock collars use Tortora’s study to claim that electronic collars are effective at reducing general aggression in dogs.

Based on my reading of Tortora’s paper, these claims are false. I will explain why below.

Tortora’s “safety training” experiment (Exp 2) consists of three phases:

Phase 1 – Pre-testing and Pre-training

36 dogs with avoidance motivated aggression were trained to perform 15 basic obedience commands using regular techniques. Training started with a continuous schedule of reinforcement, then moved on to variable. Both play and choke collars were used. No shocks.

Phase 2 – Conditioning

After a command was given, a warning buzz is presented, then the electrical stimulus is delivered. When a dog performs the command (correct escape behavior), a safety signal or tone was used right before the electrical stimulus was turned off.

Training of commands was conducted in progressively more challenging conditions, and the level of electrical stimulus was also increased during the training process. Ultimately, the dogs were trained to tolerate and perform under high levels of electrical stimulus. Once that was achieved, the dogs were trained without the shocks.

Phase 3 – Normalization

Subjects were tested for the absence of aggression under maximally stressful and aggression-inducing circumstances, for example, while the animal was roughly handled and beaten about the body with a rolled-up newspaper or switch.

If the dog failed to perform the command or responded with aggression then a full intensity electrical stimulus was delivered. Finally, the electrical stimulus was slowly phased out and training was transferred to the owner’s home.

Tortora reported that this procedure “resulted in complete and permanent elimination of aggression in all of the 36 dogs tested”. Note that this study specifically addresses cases of avoidance-motivated-aggression, which is different from pain elicited aggression and fear motivated aggression.

Tortora also showed (in Exp 1) that these other types of aggression and problem behaviors can be effectively addressed with established counter-conditioning techniques, and does not require such extreme measures.

Other types of aggression and problem behaviors can be effectively addressed with established counter-conditioning techniques, and does not require such extreme measures.

What Is Avoidance Motivated Aggression?

It is important to note that Tortora’s experiment 2 deals specifically with avoidance motivated aggression. Therefore, we should understand exactly what avoidance motivated aggression is, and how it differs from other types of aggression.

Avoidance motivated aggression is an aversively motivated aggression in dogs. I.e. the dog is using aggression as a means to avoid an anticipated aversive event (e.g. expectation of pain).

Avoidance-motivated aggression in dogs involves biting attacks or threats of attack directed toward one or more of the dog’s human caretakers. As the name implies, these threats and bites are assumed to be avoidance responses that are acquired and maintained by the prevention of anticipated aversive events.
~~[Tortora 1983, pp176]

Some properties of avoidance motivated aggression that differentiate it from other aversively motivated aggression:

1. It can appear to be unpredictable.
   

   Through higher order conditioning and generalization, a variety of apparently neutral and unrelated stimuli come to elicit the avoidance response of aggression.

2. The dog does not produce any signals that may indicate the onset of aggression.
3. It produces a much more serious attack than the other forms of aggression.
   

   Avoidance-motivated aggression usually involves multiple bites, a sustained attack, and is not self-terminating.

4. Avoidance-motivated aggression develops over time and there is a clear escalation in the level of aggression as it develops. The aggressive episodes increase in duration, frequency, force/damage, and occur over a larger range of stimuli. I.e., there are many chances to fix the issue before it develops into an “instrumental avoidance response”.
5. Counter conditioning techniques that are effective with other forms of aversively motivated aggression, have little effect on avoidance motivated aggression.

Tortora’s safety training is a complex 9 stage process that specifically addresses avoidance motivated aggression. Safety training using shock collars is very different from aversion therapy or aversive training using shock collars. Aversive training is how shock collars are commonly used today, i.e. shock the dog when he is performs an undesirable behavior. Continue delivering the shock until he stops that behavior.

In Exp 3, Tortora showed that when only “full-intensity signaled shock was used to punish aggression”, there was only a slight decrease in aggression. I.e., shock aversion therapy or simple shock aversive training is not an effective way to suppress aggression in our dogs.

Resource control training methods are much more effective in the long-term, a lot less risky, and strengthens the dog-human bond.

Key Points from Tortora’s 1983 Study

Some salient points I derived from Tortora’s paper:

1. Timing and clear communication

Timing and clear communication are very important, especially in pain based aversive training. This was shown in Phase 2 where Tortora used a warning buzz and conditioned the dog to a safety signal. Using a unique tone also allows us to more consistently and accurately mark a behavior in time (the same type of thing is used in clicker training).

Accurate timing and clear communication is important because it lets the dog know how to stop or avoid the pain from an electrical stimulus. This was also shown in Schalke’s study, where the dogs that could make a clear association, i.e. knew how to stop the pain, did not experience elevated stress levels. This only occurred in the very simple aversion case and not on recall.

This is also why aversive techniques are risky because most of us, especially novice trainers, have far from perfect timing, and may not always communicate with our dogs in a precise and clear manner.

2. Pain is a strong but risky motivator

Using pain can produce more reliable compliance in our dogs, because pain is a strong motivator. However, pain and stress can elicit an aggressive reaction from our dogs. This was also present in Tortora’s study. In fact, in Exp 1, Tortora reports that of the 92 avoidance motivated aggression cases, 90% had prior pain based aversive experiences.

The dogs in this study initially behaved as if they “expected” aversive events and that the only way to prevent these events was through aggression.

3. Tortora’s experiment 2 is a very extreme and specialized process

Dogs can also get habituated to the pain, and subsequently require a stronger and stronger stimulus. For example, Tortora reported increasing the electrical stimulus to high and ultimately maximum levels during the study.

Avoidance motivated aggression can be suppressed with avoidance training and the use of full intensity shocks.

Best to prevent avoidance motivated aggression altogether by staying away from pain and stress based training methods.

Conclusion

I am not sure why Tortora’s study is used to make the case for electronic collars or shock collars. As I understand it, his work is targeted at “dangerously aggressive dogs”, in particular those that did not respond to “established counter-conditioning treatments”, i.e., only cases of avoidance motivated aggression. It is clear that his procedure is very extreme, requires a lot of precision and knowledge, and is only meant for very limited situations. If anything, it is a cautionary tale of what could happen if we fail our dog in his management, care, and training.

Tortora shows that pain and stress can cause aggression (which is consistent with other studies), and that avoidance motivated aggression can be suppressed with avoidance training and full intensity shocks. To me, this underscores the risks of using pain based aversive techniques, and inadvertently creating a “dangerously aggressive dog”, who then has to undergo even more extreme treatment or face euthanasia. Tortora states

Behavior therapy for such dogs has always been the last step before euthanasia.
…
In conclusion, it should be emphasized that safety training for dogs is not being recommended literally as a behavior therapy program for avoidance-motivated human psychopathologies. A substitute for electrical stimulation may have to be found.

If you are considering using shock collars because of Tortora’s study, please read it carefully and in full first. Unfortunately, inaccurate claims abound on the internet.

Unfortunately, inaccurate claims abound on the internet.

Living well is not about training-terms and making catchy Sphinx-like statements such as “dogs are not human“. It is true that dogs are not human, but that seems rather obvious. What does this really tell me about living well with my dogs?

When I first started learning about dog training, the best advice I got was practical, easy to understand, and free of Sphinx prose. In fact, some of the best dog training tips I learned were not from so-called experts, but from a movie about how to reach our full potential, and how to live a good life – Kung Fu Panda.

This movie will give you a lot of laughs, entertainment, some very wise sayings, and many valuable life lessons. Some of these life lessons are key in building a strong bond with your dog, and training him to become a happy, well-adjusted canine.

There is no charge for awesomeness… or attractiveness.
~~ [ Po, the Kung Fu Panda ]

Here are five important lessons of panda kung fu applied to dog training.

There is no charge for awesomeness… or attractiveness.

Zen Dog Training Tip 1

A Dragon Warrior Never Gives Up.

You’ll never be the Dragon Warrior, unless you lose 500 pounds and brush your teeth!
~~ [ Po, the Kung Fu Panda ]

Living with a dog can sometimes be very challenging, painful, and emotionally draining. However difficult it becomes, do not give up on your dog.

If the dog training techniques we use are not working well, then we can do more research and try something else. The next thing that we try, may be the thing that works!

In my experience, the dog training process, similarly to the new roommate process, is usually difficult at the start. Both me and my dog are testing each other out, and getting a feeling for each others’ tolerances and limits.

Dogs, perhaps even more so than us, are very opportunistic by nature and will take advantage of us if we let them. Therefore, it is important to set some rules, boundaries, and a fixed routine for our dog. This will make the initial getting to know you phase a lot easier and less stressful for everyone.

A Dragon Warrior Never Gives Up.

Try to fix problems as soon as they arise.

Try to fix problems as soon as they arise rather than waiting until they escalate and become big problems.

If we have serious aggression issues with our dog, it is probably best to get a professional trainer to come to the house and observe our dog. This is the best way to identify the source of the aggression and develop solutions.

Giving up on an aggressive dog is pretty much choosing euthanasia for him.

Dog shelters and adoption agencies are already filled with many well-behaved strays that an aggressive dog will have no chance of adoption.

Consider carefully before getting a dog. A dog will be a lot of work, a financial drain, and a time drain for about 10-15 years.

Once we get a dog, giving up on him should not be an option.

Once we get a dog, giving up on him should not be an option.

Zen Dog Training Tip 2

A peach tree will always be a peach tree.

Ah, yes. But no matter what you do, that seed will grow to be a peach tree. You may wish for an apple or an orange, but you will get a peach.
~~ [ Oogway from Kung Fu Panda ]

Do not force a dog to become something that he is not.

Some people want/think they should have full control over their dog. That is neither necessary, nor healthy.

Let our dog be the dog that he was born to be. Just redirect his energies towards positive tasks and behaviors.

Many of us have an unrealistic view of what a dog should be – Lassie. All dogs are not Lassie. In fact, even Lassie was played by several different dog doubles.

A peach tree will always be a peach tree.

My first dog was a Shiba Inu and Shibas are very definitely not Lassies.

My first dog was a Shiba Inu, and Shibas are very definitely not Lassies. I tried forcing my Shiba to become a Lassie with collar corrections, alpha rolls, and other types of physical techniques. The results were bad for everyone.

It did not matter how many times I rolled him over and growled at him, he was still a Shiba and not a Lassie. In fact, he frequently used his teeth to let us know that he did not appreciate being compared to a Lassie.

Do not try to change the nature of a dog with physical force, instead use the dog’s nature to motivate him and redirect him into positive action.

What ultimately worked very well for me, was to carefully observe my Shiba and understand his nature. I saw that he valued his freedom above all else, I saw that he liked to chase and wrestle, I saw that he did not trust easily, I saw that he was wary of people touching him, I saw that he did not like submitting to other dogs.

Instead of doing leash jerks, I motivate him through the control of resources and access to new locations. Instead of hitting or spanking him for chewing on my shoes, I help him drain energy through structured chasing games, and redirect him onto interesting chew toys. Instead of forcing him to trust me, I try to gain his trust by fulfilling his needs, and protecting him from stressful encounters.

Once I stopped using physical force, my dog’s behavior and my relationship with him improved significantly. He became happier, I became happier, and we both had plenty of peaches to eat.

Do not try to change the true nature of a dog with physical force.

Zen Dog Training Tip 3

Pride is not a virtue.

From the first moment I’ve been proud of you. And it was my pride that blinded me. I loved you too much to see what you were becoming, what I turned you into. I’m… I’m sorry.
~~[ Shifu from Kung Fu Panda ]

Do not be blinded by pride.

Certainly we should be proud of our dog’s achievements, but it is also important to recognize his weaknesses.

In this excellent article  Know Thyself, Know Thine Dog, Know Thine Enemies by kblover, he suggests creating a  strength and weakness profile for both you and your dog. I think this is a great and very fun idea!

Let us start right now and list 3 strengths and 3 weaknesses for our dog.

Certainly we should be proud of our dog’s achievements, but it is also important to recognize his weaknesses.

My Shiba Inu’s strengths–

He is brave and loves to examine and explore new objects and environments.

1. He is brave and loves to examine and explore new objects and environments.
2. He is not possessive and is willing to give up toys, food, and resources to people and dogs.
3. He is very creative and persistent. If he cannot get to what he wants one way, he will try another way – especially when my back is turned.

My Shiba Inu’s weaknesses–

1. He can very easily lose his mind, and start acting based on instinct.
2. He is a stress cadet and does not like changes in his regular routine.
3. He is very stubborn. If he really does not want to do something, he will fight you tooth and nail.

I find that I make the best decisions for my dog when I am objective about him, and the dog training methods that I use. I try to keep an open mind, and look for new ways to improve my dog’s quality of life and our relationship.

Do not resist listening to others and assimilating new dog training information because of pride.

I try to keep an open mind, and look for new ways to improve my dog’s quality of life and our relationship.

Zen Dog Training Tip 4

Even Dragon Warriors Need to Eat.

Tigress–It is said that the Dragon Warrior can go for months without eating, surviving on the dew of a single ginko leaf and the energy of the universe.

Po–Then I guess my body doesn’t know I’m the Dragon Warrior yet. It’s gonna take a lot more than dew, and, uh, universe juice.

~~[ Excerpt from Kung Fu Panda ]

Dogs need a healthy and balanced diet.

In general, a dog will eat more than he needs because in the wild, that is the best way to ensure survival. This often leads to obesity in a domestic dog, which can shorten his lifespan and cause a variety of health issues.

Therefore, it is important not to overfeed our dog.

I know, it can be difficult to resist our rascally beggar, or lie-at-our-feet furry friend; especially when he uses those big, round eyes to full effect. When I want to express my dog-love through treats, I also reduce his regular meal by an equivalent amount.

I also take my dog for yearly vet examinations, vaccine shots, and teeth cleaning.

Even Dragon Warriors Need to Eat.

Zen Dog Training Tip 5

The Secret Ingredient is Nothing!

Po–Wait, wait… it’s just plain old noodle soup? You don’t add some kind of special sauce or something?

Mr. Ping–Don’t have to. To make something special you just have to believe it’s special.
Po–There is no secret ingredient.
~~[ Excerpt from Kung Fu Panda ]

When I first got my Shiba Inu, I had a lot of troubles with him. He was starting to get aggressive with me, and at home, he was getting into all sorts of trouble practically every minute of every day.

My vet advised me to return him on our first visit, when Shiba was only 10 weeks old.

I considered it – but a Dragon Warrior never gives up right?

At that point, I was really quite desperate and was looking for any available miracle cure. But there really is no secret ingredient.

This beautiful face is the secret ingredient for my happiness.

To make things special between me and my dog, I only needed to work hard at building a good relationship. After I put in the time and effort to understand my dog, and properly communicate with him, our relationship got better and better.

No special collar, dog behavior medication, or expensive toy will magically fix our dog.

All we need for success is to believe in our dog, and do the work that it takes to establish a strong and lasting bond.

Quit, don’t quit? Noodles, don’t noodles? You are too concerned about what was and what will be. There is a saying: yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That is why it is called the ‘present’.
~~[ Oogway from Kung Fu Panda ]

All we need for success is to believe in our dog, and do the work that it takes to establish a strong and lasting bond.

The best way I found to approach dog obedience training is to get the facts for myself. Initially, this can be a bit daunting, but it gets easier with time.

In particular, it is important to get training information from multiple sources. Do not believe what you see on a single television show, what you read in a single book, what you find in any one web article, or even what you may hear from a so-called professional dog trainer. The dog obedience training field it not regulated and anyone can refer to themselves as a professional trainer.

Instead, get your information from all of these sources, from many different people, from top veterinarian schools, and scientific studies. Then, use that knowledge and common sense to determine which ones are dog obedience training facts, and which are myths.

Dog Obedience Training Facts and Myths.

Dog Obedience Training Facts

Fact 1 – Almost all dogs can be trained to follow obedience commands and to stop undesirable behaviors.

When I first got my Shiba Inu, it seemed like he was an extreme devil dog and no matter what I did, his behavior only got worse. However, after a few months, I finally started to understand the basics of dog obedience training and things improved dramatically.

The only time where dog obedience training fails is when there are health issues involved. For example, a dog may have neurological disorders, or some other physical ailment that is causing his erratic behavior.

Fact 2 – Most dog obedience training issues and bad dog behaviors are a result of human error, or human misunderstanding.

When a dog misbehaves, we commonly blame the dog. However, most bad dog behaviors come from us, rather than from our dogs.

Dogs are not born mean. In fact, bad dog behaviors usually occur when we mis-communicate with our dogs and inadvertently reward bad behaviors. If a dog consistently gets bad results for a given behavior, he will stop that behavior. Conversely, if a dog consistently gets good results for a given behavior, he will increase the frequency of that behavior.

Similarly, if we do not fulfill our dog’s needs, including his need for exercise, chewing, digging, playing, and wrestling, he will try to fulfill those needs on his own. This is when our dog suddenly turns into a devil, and causes havoc and much property damage. However, if we provide our dog with positive outlets for his hyper energy, he will be happy and content to lie by our feet when the day is done.

Ff we do not fulfill our dog’s needs, including his need for exercise, chewing, digging, playing, and jumping, he will try to fulfill these needs on his own.

Fact 3 – Dogs are not humans.

Dogs are not humans, therefore they do not learn or think in exactly the same way as we do. Many people attribute bad dog behavior to hate, malice, or spite. Those particular nasty emotions are a human thing and not a dog thing.

Similarly, we are not dogs. Therefore, we should not try to pretend to be a dog by biting our dog’s neck with our fingers, pinning them to the ground by their necks, or try to fight and posture like a dog. Our dogs are not stupid, they know we are not dogs, and that our fingers are not their mother’s teeth.

When we jab at a dog’s neck, he does not think that it is another dog biting at him. In fact, it probably feels nothing at all like another dog biting at his neck. Instead, the jab causes some discomfort or pain, which causes some dogs to stop his current behavior in order to avoid further pain.

Dogs are not humans, and we are not dogs.

Dog Obedience Training Myths

Myth 1 – Bad dog behaviors are a result of dominance and can only be dealt with through physical corrections.

Dogs usually misbehave not because of dominance, but because we respond in the wrong way. When a dog jumps, we try to push him away with arms and hands. This actually rewards a dog for jumping because from the dog’s point of view,

Jumping = Fun game of wrestle.

Similarly, if we frequently take things away from our dog by force, he will learn that

People coming close to my stuff = Stuff gets taken away.

This conditions a dog to start protecting his belongings with whatever means necessary.

Myth 2 – Operant conditioning methods that work on dolphins, bears, tigers, and other animals do not work on dogs because dogs are pack animals. As such, they only understand dominance techniques.

Yes, dogs are pack animals; and in fact, so are we. Dogs do sometimes engage in dominance posturing, and they may sometimes fight because of dominance issues. Humans do the same things. However, dominance displays and fights are only a small part of a dog’s life. We are often the ones who project our own need for dominance onto our dogs.

Operant conditioning methods that work on dolphins, bears, tigers, and other animals will work on dogs as well. In fact, almost all of our current dog obedience training methods are based on operant conditioning principles. This includes both reward obedience training (time-outs, food rewards, withdrawing attention, NILIF) and aversive obedience training (leash corrections, alpha rolls, shock collars, finger jabs, muzzle slaps).

*We* are often the ones who project our own need for dominance onto our dogs.

Myth 3 – We cannot stop dog bad behaviors with reward training. Reward training is just for learning dog tricks.

Contrary to what some people may say, reward training can be used to both stop bad behaviors and to encourage good behaviors. Similarly, aversive training can also be used to stop bad behaviors and to encourage good behaviors. Each school of training has its advantages and disadvantages, but both can work to shape behavior.

Myth 4 – Using food to stop bad dog behavior is treating the dog like a human. Therefore, it does not work.

I will never understand why food is considered to be a human thing and not a dog thing. Dogs have to eat too.

The reason why dogs jump and bite during dinner time is because *we* become afraid when that happens, and quickly give them their food. This rewards the jumping and biting behavior, which causes the dog to jump and bite more. If we only give our dog food when he is sitting and waiting patiently, then our dog will quickly learn that,

Sit = Get food, while
Jumping and biting = No food.

Randomly giving food to a dog with no attention to timing, teaches him the wrong lessons. Similarly, randomly jabbing a dog because of some perceived dominance issue teaches him the wrong lessons as well.

Timing is crucial in dog obedience training, no matter which techniques we choose to use. However, the risks and consequences of timing mistakes are greatest, when we use pain based aversive techniques.

If we only give our dog food when he is lying down and waiting calmly, then our dog will quickly learn that lying down = food, while jumping and biting = no food.

Dog Obedience Training Facts and Myths

I believe that the most important thing, is to give our dog a good quality of life. This includes fulfilling his needs, as well as ensuring his health and safety.

Dog obedience training is necessary to provide some structure for our dog and keep him safe. This allows us to take him walking, play fun games, meet and greet people, and much more.

However, we must not forget that dogs are individuals, with their own will and their own mind. There are some things that my dogs must do, such as go to the vet, walk on a leash, and not use their teeth on people. At most other times, they are free to think and act on their own.

As pack leader, I help my dogs be the dog that they want to be; rather than use pain and force to make them into the dog that *I* want them to be.

As pack leader, I help my dogs be the dog that they want to be; rather than use pain and force to make them into the dog that *I* want them to be.

Indeed, dogs are not human. They do not learn in exactly the same way that we learn, nor do they think in exactly the same way as we think.

Dogs most frequently learn about each other and about us through visual and scent cues. In particular, they observe body language and smell butts to get information. Sometimes, they also use verbal communication, but much less so than we do. For example, dogs usually pick up hand gestures a lot faster than they do verbal commands.

Note, however, that just as dogs are not human, we are not dogs. Therefore, we should not pretend to be one by simulating dog bites with our hands, using alpha rolls, or try to fight like a dog. Even if we tried our very hardest, we would make poor dogs. We do not have sharp teeth, our skin is thin and very sensitive, we cannot run very fast, nor can we jump very high. We certainly did not get to the top of the evolutionary ladder because of our physical strengths.

Dogs are not stupid, they can clearly see that we are not dogs. They are also very good at observing human behavior and human gestures.

How Dogs Learn, How Dogs Think

How Do Dogs Think?

How Do Dogs Think?

Dogs do not read or write so they do not think in words and symbols the way humans do. However, just like us, dogs have needs and goals. Some of those needs may include the need for food, the need for shelter, the need to herd, the need to hunt, and the need to play.

When we do not provide proper activities for our dogs to fulfill those needs, they will act on their own. This is when, in our eyes, they suddenly become bad and destructive. Without any warning, it seems, they are chewing up our shoes, digging up our prize roses, and tearing apart our furniture.

When we lock our dogs up to keep them away from our shoes, couch, and roses; their needs and goals are still there, they just no longer have an outlet for them. As a result, they become frustrated, and that frequently leads to what we may perceive as dog aggression.

Contrary to what some may think, dogs are not slaves put on this Earth to please their human masters. Dogs have their own needs. It is important to fulfill our dog’s needs, and not just use him to fulfill our own.

Another important aspect of how dogs think, is how dogs learn.

Dogs have their own needs and it is important to fulfill our dog’s needs and not just use the dog to fulfill our own.

How Do Dogs Learn?

Dogs can learn from other dogs through social learning. They can also learn from us through a process called conditioning.

Psychologists such as Pavlov, Skinner, and others have done many experiments on animals, including dogs, in the area of behavioral conditioning. The behavioral conditioning methods that we use to train all dogs today are based on their extensive work and studies.

Dogs respond to classical and operant conditioning. Simply put, classical conditioning is responsible for involuntary responses, e.g. a dog salivating when dinner is served, while operant conditioning is responsible for voluntary responses, e.g. a dog sitting for a treat.

Classical conditioning can be useful in giving positive associations to potentially negative objects (e.g. muzzle, nail clipper/grinder, harness). For example, if we show our dog a muzzle before the start of dinner each night, he will start to associate the muzzle with dinner. Since every time he sees the muzzle, he gets dinner; he may start to salivate when he sees the muzzle, because food is likely on the way.

Based on operant conditioning, there are two classes of techniques for shaping a dog’s voluntary behavior, reward dog training (positive reinforcement, negative punishment) and aversive dog training (negative reinforcement, positive punishment).

Operant conditioning techniques are what we mostly use today to stop bad dog behavior, as well as to train them to do tricks and commands.

How Do Dogs Learn?

How Dogs Learn – Operant Conditioning

How Dogs Learn – Operant Conditioning.

Based on operant conditioning principles, we can change a dog’s behavior by adding or taking away a reward stimulus; or we can change a dog’s behavior by adding or taking away an aversive stimulus.

A reward stimulus can be food, or it can be a variety of other things including toys, freedom to roam, walks, play, and much more. Similarly, an aversive stimulus can be a collar correction, an electric shock, a slap on the muzzle, a finger jab, an unpleasant sound, and much more.

Different stimuli will have different results on learning depending on the temperament of the dog, the temperament of the trainer, the type of dog, the environment, the trigger event, how the stimulus is applied, and a variety of other factors. Some dogs are food focused which means that food will be effective at training good behaviors and stopping bad behaviors. Similarly, some dogs will wilt with just a stern word, while others will turn around and bite when jabbed by a foot or a finger.

How and what a dog learns is also highly dependent on timing (when a stimulus is applied), and frequency (how often a stimulus is applied). Generally, we want to apply the reward or aversive stimulus as close to the target behavior as possible. Operant conditioning studies also tell us that we do not want to over-correct our dog. If we apply an aversive stimulus too frequently, our dog will get habituated to it and it will no longer be effective.

Similarly, we do not want to reward our dog too frequently, or he may learn to expect a reward every time, and not be motivated to give his best effort.

A reward stimulus can be food, or it can be a variety of other things including toys, freedom to roam, walks, play, and much more.

How We Think and How We Learn

Always observe and listen to what our dog is saying.

Bad dog behavior relates to how our dogs think and learn, but it also relates to how we think and learn.

For example, once we commit to a given style of dog training, there will be a very great tendency to stick to it no matter what; even in the face of insurmountable opposing facts and data. In social psychology, this is also called commitment and consistency.

Do not let yourself be manipulated by carefully edited television shows or unsubstantiated dog training myths. Instead, do your own research on how dogs think and learn. Try out a variety of safe and reasonable dog training techniques, to find what works best for our own temperament and for our dog’s temperament. Always observe and listen to what our dog is trying to say.

The best decision that we can make for our dog, is an informed decision.

Do not dismiss new facts and data simply because it is inconsistent with our current set of beliefs. To make the best decision, we want to consider all the data objectively, and then decide what is best for our dog.

Bad dog behavior relates to how our dogs think and learn, but it also relates to how we think and learn.

NILIF is a simple and effective way to control our dog’s behavior, by controlling his most desired resources.

To implement NILIF, all we have to do is ask our dog to do something for us first, before giving him something in return. For example,

• If our dog wants to go out to the backyard, ask him for a Sit first, before opening the door.
• If our dog is looking for affection, ask him to Go Bed first, before scratching him on his favorite spots.
• If it is our dog’s meal time, then ask him for a Down-Stay before starting to prepare his food.

The Nothing in Life Is Free program is not a command or a single technique, rather it is a general strategy for dog behavior control.

With NILIF, we teach our dog that the best way to get what he wants, is to first do what we want.

Nothing in Life Is Free Dog Training

Why Apply the Nothing in Life Is Free Program

With NILIF we teach our dog to work for the things that he wants most.

With NILIF we teach our dog –

• To work for the things that he wants most.
• That people are the source of food, toys, play, and many other good things.
• That he gets the most resources by working together with us, staying calm, and following house rules.

This helps to build a strong bond with our dog that is based on cooperation, positive outcomes, and a good work ethic. It is an effective and non-confrontational way to achieve control.

Dogs have needs of their own. They are not mindless satellites that revolve around us, and that only live to serve us. With NILIF, we channel a dog’s energy into positive activities, and reward him well for his good works.

NILIF helps to build a strong bond with our dog that is based on cooperation, positive outcomes, and a good work ethic.

How to Apply the Nothing in Life Is Free Program

While applying NILIF on my dogs, I learned that it is very important to be consistent, firm, and fair.

1. Consistency

I set up a consistent set of rules, a consistent routine, and a consistent way of communication. My dogs understand what things they get rewarded for, and there is always ample opportunity for them to work for their supper.

Clear communication is also very important, so I identify good behaviors with a yes-mark (Yes or Good) and bad behaviors with a no-mark (Ack-ack). Similarly, they have a good dog name and a bad dog name.

Finally, dogs do not come with a ready-made human rulebook in their heads. For health and safety, we must teach a dog our very human rules. These rules will likely make very little sense to him, which is why we want to tie them to the things that he values most.

Dogs do not come with a ready-made human rule-book in their heads.

2. Firmness

If my dog fails to perform a command or only puts in a half-hearted effort, then I do not reward him for his lackluster performance; no matter how cute he looks.

For example, my Shiba Inu will sometimes only perform a half-down when I give him the command. When he does this, I just give him a look and wait for him to do it properly. When he sees that he will not get rewarded unless he does a good job, he puts in the extra effort.

He works even harder when I do group obedience sessions and he sees that my Siberian Huskies are being rewarded well for their good performance.

Shiba works even harder when I do group obedience sessions and he sees that my Siberian Huskies are being rewarded well for their good performance.

3. Fairness

All my dogs follow the same rules and get similar rewards. Their rewards are not always identical because they each have different temperaments, and are motivated by different things.

For example, both my Siberian Huskies are very motivated by food, especially Shania. My Shiba Inu is less motivated by food and more motivated by freedom, new objects and experiences, as well as chasing games.

Husky Lara likes to chase, jump, and weave between a person’s legs. Husky Shania loves meeting people, getting tummy rubs, and licking faces. A big part of being successful with NILIF involves understanding our dogs, and identifying what motivates them most.

A big part of being successful with NILIF involves understanding our dogs, and identifying what motivates them most.

I always try to set my dog up for success. In particular, I give him tasks where he has a good chance of completing. For example, I start by teaching him simple commands such as Look and Sit. I wait until he has mastered more basic commands before moving on to Fetch, Come, or Go Bed which are more complex commands, that include a sequence of actions. The more successful he is, the more confident he will become, and the more quickly he learns that working with me is a very rewarding activity.

Instead of throwing my dog into a situation that I know he cannot handle, I start small and we take small steps together. He works for each step, and gets rewarded for it with food, play, affection, and more.

I make sure to only reward good behaviors, and not give him anything for bad behaviors, including my attention and affection. Instead, when he does something undesirable, he may lose a reward or privilege.

In this way, a dog learns to repeat good behaviors because he gets what he desires most. Similarly, he stops bad behaviors because it gets him nothing, or he loses something that he desires. With NILIF dog training, we build a relationship that is based on trust and respect, rather than one that is based on confrontation and fear.

I make sure to only reward good behaviors, and not to give my dogs anything for bad behaviors.

The Spirit of NILIF

My ultimate goal is to provide my dogs with as good a quality of life as I can.

Some people interpret the nothing in NILIF in the most extreme way. In particular, they give a dog access to some resource if and only if he completes a requested task. At other times, the dog is kept in a kennel or crate, so that he does not have his freedom, which in itself is a desired resource.

Confinement also prevents the dog from getting other desired resources on his own, including sticks to play with, or objects to chew on. In short, the only way he gets any and all resources is through us.

This may be one of those instances where we are trying so carefully to follow the letter of the law, that we end up defeating the spirit of the law.

The spirit of NILIF, as it is widely used today, is to build a strong bond with our dog that is based on trust and respect rather than on confrontation and physical force. We would hardly be doing this by keeping our dog locked up all day, with short bursts of freedom to hero-worship us. Such a strategy focuses purely on the human, and leaves nothing for the dog.

I train my dogs and use NILIF, not to boast about my dog training prowess, or to follow random rules for no reason. My ultimate goal is to provide my dogs with a good quality of life. Constantly depriving them of freedom and activity would hardly achieve this goal. Common sense dictates that this extreme interpretation of NILIF is not only untenable, but also unproductive.

The Spirit of NILIF

When I implement NILIF, I reward my dogs for good behavior. It does not matter whether I asked for a behavior or not; if they behave well, they get rewarded. They are still working for their resources by behaving well, therefore they are not getting resources for free. However, I see absolutely no need to explicitly control every single action by my dog.

If my dog follows house rules, then he gets to roam freely in the house, play, rest, drink water, chew on toys, or whatever else. If he breaks an important house rule, then he may lose a reward, or very temporarily lose the privilege of his freedom.

Sometimes, I also reward my dogs with food and affection when they are resting calmly together. They get rewarded for sitting while greeting people. They get rewarded for staying calm while out on walks, and much more.

Sometimes, I also reward my dogs when they are resting calmly together.

Isn’t the ultimate goal to get our dog to behave well on his own? Isn’t that much better than dictating his every move – like a robot controlled dog? It is extremely unhealthy to set ourselves up as the sole focus of our dog’s world, and take away all of his freedom and options. It is unhealthy for us, and unhealthy for our dog.

I like giving my dog options and helping him fulfill his needs. In my book, that is what trust and respect mean. That is also what love means.

We can nitpick on terms until the cows come home, and twist words to win online debates. At the end of the day though, what matters is not the terms used but what we do, and how we strive to give our dogs what they deserve – a good life that is safe and filled with happiness.

What matters is not the terms used but what we do, and how we strive to give our dogs what they deserve - a good life that is safe and filled with happiness.

Because dogs are such close companions to us, it is easy to humanize them. Many dog movies and television shows including Lassie, 101 Dalmatians, Lady and the Tramp, Bolt, and others have encouraged this view.

However, dogs are not humans, and humans are not dogs.

Humanizing a dog causes miscommunication between human and canine, which can result in a variety of dog behavioral issues.

For example, many dog owners attribute their dog pooping on their favorite carpet or eating poop, when they are not home, as an act of vengeance. In actuality, it is just a symptom of stress from having an unexpected change in their routine (separation anxiety).

Dog Psychology - How Dogs Learn, How Dogs Think

Dog Psychology vs. Dog Training

Some trainers claim that dog psychology involves pack theory and acting like a dog. According to them, obedience training is not dog psychology but simply teaching a dog tricks.

In particular, a dog who has undergone obedience training may understand training commands such as Sit, Down, and Heel, but may still engage in destructive and aggressive behaviors, such as chewing our designer shoes, or digging up our prize roses.

Is this true?

• Is there a big difference between dog psychology and dog obedience training?
• What about dog behavior modification?
• How do dogs really learn?

In fact, this separation of terms is unnecessary and only creates confusion.

Dog behavior modification, dog training, and dog tricks are ALL based on operant conditioning.

Dog behavior modification, dog training, and dog tricks are ALL based on operant conditioning.

Dog Psychology vs. Dog Training

Based on these dog psychology principles, we know that dogs learn by repeating behaviors with good results, and stopping behaviors with bad results.

Operant conditioning consists of aversive methods and reward methods. Both aversive and reward methods, can be used to modify dog behavior, train a dog to follow commands, and teach a dog new tricks.

Operant conditioning forms a big part of what we understand of dog psychology and animal psychology.

Misunderstanding of Dog Psychology

Misunderstanding of Dog Psychology.

• The claim that dog obedience training, and dog tricks are somehow not based on dog psychology is false.
• The claim that food only works for obedience training and dog tricks is false.
• The claim that using food in dog training is bribery, and somehow ineffective is false.
• The claim that using food is humanizing the dog and therefore inappropriate is false.
• The claim that reward dog training is only based on food is false.
• The claim that aversive dog training, particularly physical force training is more effective at behavior modification than reward training is false.
• The claim that physical force is required to modify dog behavior is false.
• The claim that physical force is an integral part of dog psychology is false.

Both aversive and reward techniques, can be used to “train” our dog to sit on command, to sit instead of dig on command, to drop whatever he is chewing, to chew his toy instead of our shoes, and to dig in the sand pit instead of in the rose-bed.

The divide between dog psychology, dog behavior modification, and dog training simply does not exist.

Many of these supposed behavior modification techniques, including leash jerks, alpha rolls, and finger pokes, are aversive conditioning techniques.

Both aversive and reward techniques, can be used to “train” good behaviors, as well as stop bad behaviors.

Dog Psychology and Dominance/Pack Theory

Dog Psychology and Dominance/Pack Theory

Dominance theory is based on the observation that wolf packs and wild dog packs are ruled by an alpha male and an alpha female. This alpha pair controls all of the pack’s resources and sets all of the pack rules. There are also rituals that pack members must follow including letting the alpha pair have access to the best food,best sleeping area, and best resources.

The theory is that when dogs come to live with us, we become part of their pack and must assume the alpha male and alpha female positions. Part of assuming this position, is to follow similar pack rituals including eating before our followers, not letting our followers have access to beds and couches, always walking in front of our followers, and using physical force to establish and maintain our pack leadership position.

However, recent studies have shown that wolf packs and also wild dog packs are a lot more complex than this simple alpha-pair model. Leadership tends to be more dynamic in nature, and the alpha dogs rule through the control of resources rather than through physical force.

Therefore, even dominance theory cannot be used to support the false claim that physical force is a necessary, or even an effective part of dog behavior modification.

Even dominance theory cannot be used to support the false claim that physical force is a necessary, or even an effective part of dog behavior modification.

While dominance theory and dog pack dynamics are interesting areas of study, the argument of whether they apply to us and our domesticated dogs, is actually a moot point.

Just as dogs are not humans, humans are not dogs.

Contrary to common belief, dogs know that they are dogs and not human. They also know that we are human and not dogs. It is us humans who frequently get confused on these matters.

Since we are human, we are not expected by our dogs to act like dogs. We must communicate with them in a way that they can understand, but that does not mean that we should try to act like them. Not only would we be poor imitators, but however well we pretend, we would still be human, and our dogs will always know what we are.

Because our dogs live in our very complex human world, it is necessary for us to assume leadership and teach them our rules. We must provide for them not just in terms of food and shelter, but also in terms of their health and safety.

To properly manage the safety of a dog (to himself, to other dogs, and to the people around him) it is necessary to institute certain human rules, and to train him to follow those rules. Training of these rules can be achieved through aversive methods or reward methods.

It is as simple as that. No dominance theory required.

Just as dogs are not humans, humans are not dogs.

Dog Behaviorist vs. Dog Trainer

By using operant conditioning techniques, we can shape behavior to prepare our dog for obedience trials, or agility competitions. We can also modify behavior to make our dog into a good citizen at home.

A good dog trainer or dog behaviorist is someone who –

• Understands classical and operant conditioning theories,
• Has good technique (i.e. good timing, execution, redirection);
• Can quickly and accurately read a dog’s body language; and
• Is a good and patient teacher.

There are dog trainers, like Cesar Millan, who mostly use aversive training. There are dog trainers, like Victoria Stillwell, who mostly use reward training. And there are dog trainers who use both.

Reward dog training and aversive dog training have their own advantages and disadvantages, so make sure to pick a dog trainer that uses the style of training or behavior modification that you feel is most appropriate for you and your dog.

The Association of Pet Dog Trainers is a great resource for finding professional dog training help in your area.

By using operant conditioning techniques, we can modify behavior to make our dog into a good citizen at home.

Which is Better, Which is Right, and Which is Dog Psychology?

Many arguments arise in the dog behavior modification or dog training arena because many want to claim that their way is better or that their way is right.

To do this, they must first differentiate their way from all other ways. That is why there are so many terms, including dog psychology, dog behavior modification, dog training, dog tricks, and many more, describing essentially the same thing.

Moral judgements such as dog cruelty, dog bribery, evilness and goodness get thrown into the same pot and what results is a whole lot of smoke and not much else.

When we boil dog training or dog behavior modification down to its basics, we are always left with conditioning. And all of us use either aversive operant conditioning methods or reward operant conditioning methods to shape our dog’s behavior.

Both are dog psychology. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages.

I cannot say that one is absolutely better than the other, or that one is absolutely right. I can only say that I personally use reward dog training because it is more effective and less risky than the aversive methods I have tried.

Which is Better, Which is Right, and Which is Dog Psychology?

For reward training to work well, we must first identify what our dog likes. Then,

• We encourage desired behaviors by giving him a reward (positive reinforcement), or
• We discourage undesired behaviors by taking away a reward (negative punishment).

Some common myths about reward dog training –

1. Reward dog training does not work with dominant, stubborn, or aggressive dogs.
   My Shiba Inu is all of those things and reward methods worked much better on him than aversive dog training. Aversive methods just made him more aggressive.
2. Using food in dog training is bribery, because the dog should be doing the command for us.
   Dogs, like us, are motivated by a variety of things. Some of them are more food motivated, while others are more people motivated. We should use the rewards that are appropriate, based on the temperament and preferences of our dog.
   Note that in aversive dog training, the dog is not doing commands just for us either, but rather to avoid the aversive stimulus (e.g. pain).
3. Reward dog training does not show my dog that I am the boss or pack leader.
   The truth is, reward methods allows us to become a better pack leader than aversive methods. In fact, alpha wolves primarily control their members by controlling the pack’s resources – which is basically reward dog training.

Reward dog training.

Reward Dog Training – Good 1

Reward Dog Training – the good.

Helps to build a relationship based on trust.

One of the biggest advantage of reward dog training, is that there is little danger of losing our dog’s trust, even if we make some training mistakes. If we do not do dog obedience training for a living, we may not always execute our techniques perfectly, or even close to perfectly.

Some mistakes will be made, while we learn how to effectively train our dog.

If we are using reward dog training, a mistake may get our dog a bit confused, as to why he is receiving a reward. A string of continuous mistakes, may inadvertently encourage unwanted behaviors, such as jumping, but that is about as bad as it gets.

Aversive dog training, on the other hand, can very easily cause loss of trust. It may even lead to aggression.

In fact this University of Pennsylvania 2009 study shows that at least 25% of the dogs that are trained with confrontational methods, exhibit aggression during training.

“This study highlights the risk of dominance-based training, which has been made popular by TV, books and punishment-based training advocates,”Herron said. “These techniques are fear-eliciting and may lead to owner-directed aggression.”

Reward dog training helps to build a relationship based on trust.

Reward Dog Training – Good 2

Will not damage our dog either physically or mentally.

With reward dog training, the worst that happens to our dog is the removal of a reward. He may look at us cross-eyed, but he will not go home with a hurt trachea or other bodily harm. In contrast, this type of physical damage can occur, when certain aversive methods are not implemented properly.

Note that prolonged use of choke collars may cause harm to our dog, even when the collar is fitted and used as directed.

Reward dog training will not damage our dog either physically or mentally.

Reward Dog Training – Good 3

Helps to create a dog that is happy and eager to work.

When we only use reward dog training, our dog will be eager to work because work time means reward time.

Aversive dog training, on the other hand, may decrease our dog’s interest in working. Our dog may decide to just lie around and sleep, because it is safe, comfortable, and painless, to do so.

Leash training or dog training is not much fun and very stressful, when a dog keeps receiving physical corrections, even when he does not understand what is required of him.

Reward dog training helps to create a dog that is happy and eager to work.

Reward Dog Training – Bad 1

May not always solicit a prompt response to our commands.

For most dogs, a reward may not be as strong a motivator as pain (e.g. leash jerk, slap on the muzzle, finger jabs). In fact, some dogs may dislike an aversive stimulus to such an extent, that they fear it.

Fear is one of the strongest motivators for dogs. Most dogs will respond more consistently, and more promptly to it, compared to a reward.

Consistent and prompt response to commands becomes important, when our dog is involved in a life or death situation, for example when he is running into traffic. However, it should be pointed out that with proper management, we can prevent our dog from being in such dangerous circumstances.

In addition, pain based aversive training is risky, and does not guarantee full behavioral control. In fact, training mistakes and inaccurate timing, may result in even poorer command control, and increased aggression. Therefore, the best way to prevent a dog from running into traffic, is through proper equipment (e.g. doors and leashes), and proper management, similar to how we prevent children from running into traffic. After all, putting a shock collar on a young child, even to prevent the possibility of a traffic accident, would be unconscionable and against the law.

Reward dog training may not always solicit a prompt response to our commands.

Reward Dog Training – Bad 2

May sometimes require creativity to out-think our dog.

With reward dog training, we may need to get creative and come up with our own obedience training methods. This is especially true when we are trying to stop bad behaviors such as jumping, leash biting, or hand biting.

While there are many reward methods for stopping these behaviors, they may not always work with our dog. I.e. he may decide that the reward from his bad behavior, outweighs our offered reward or negative punishment. As a result, we may need to experiment with a variety of methods and reward systems, before finding one that works well with our dog.

In contrast, fear is a more universal strategy. The same pain based aversive method, for example the leash jerk, can be applied to a wide variety of situations.

Reward dog training may sometimes require creativity to out-think our dog.

Reward Dog Training – Bad 3

May require that we bring along some food or toys when on walks and outings.

Remember though, that dogs do not care about the monetary cost of a reward. Many dogs consider sticks, pine cones, and leaves to be quite exciting and awesome. When I find myself in a situation where I need a quick reward, some are usually readily available in the environment around me.

In fact, it is often very desirable to use the dogs and people we meet during walks, as rewards for our dog. For example, if my dog does not jump, he gets to go up and meet the new person. Once he starts jumping, I move him back, do a sit, and restart the greeting.

As our dog training lessons progress, we can begin to phase out the food rewards. Be careful to phase the rewards out slowly, so that our dog stays motivated.

We may have to carry food or toys when on walks and outings.

Reward Dog Training – Bad 4

May cause our dog to gain weight.

Obesity can sometimes become a problem, if we give our dog too many dog treats.

This issue can be easily resolved by –

• Using part of our dog’s regular meals as training rewards,
• Using smaller sized treats, and
• Using a lower calorie food or treat.

All dogs have to eat. It is much more effective to make our dog work for his food, rather than giving it to him for free in a silver bowl.

Reward dog training is just better dog kung fu!

I started out with aversive dog training but now, I use reward methods almost exclusively. Aversive methods made my Shiba Inu develop even more behavioral issues, including aggression.

In my opinion, it is much better to start with reward dog training because it is safer, builds a stronger bond with our dog, and is easier to implement without harmful side effects. Reward training takes a bit more time, and may not be as visceral as aversive mathods, but it is a more comfortable, fun, and effective way for dogs to learn.

Reward dog training is just better dog kung fu!

• We discourage undesired behaviors by applying an aversive or unpleasant stimulus (positive punishment), and
• We encourage desired behaviors by stopping the aversive stimulus (negative reinforcement).

Different aversive methods may place more or less stress on our dog. In general, pain based methods are the most stressful.

Aversive Dog Training.

Aversive Dog Training – Good 1

May get more consistent and prompt responses to commands.

As with any animal, a dog is very sensitive to danger and threats, because they are especially crucial to survival in the wild. When faced with a stressful stimulus (e.g. pain or a dominance threat), a dog will most likely try to resolve the situation quickly, so that he may return to a safe and comfortable state.

Many dogs will consistently perform a Sit, Down, or Stay, because they do not wish to endure pain and stress. Once we get consistent and prompt responses from our dog, we can give him more freedom, and let him participate in a wider range of activities.

Many aversive dog trainers point out, that a good command response is crucial when we are yelling Stop, and our dog is running into traffic.

Note however, that even extreme pain does not always guarantee full behavioral control. In addition, inaccurate timing and mistakes in training, may result in even poorer command control, as well as increased aggression. Therefore, the best way to prevent a dog from running into traffic, is through proper equipment (e.g. doors and leashes), and proper management.

Aversive Dog Training – Good 2

May show results in a shorter time-span.

As described above, dogs can be very motivated to avoid an aversive stimulus, especially pain. Therefore, we will probably start to see results to simple commands, in a shorter period of time.

In fact, a dog will respond best in the initial obedience training sessions.

Performance may degrade later, once our dog gets used to or habituated to the aversive stimulus.

Aversive Dog Training – Good 3

Do not need to carry around rewards such as treats or toys.

We always have what we need with us – our hands, collar, and leash.

Aversive dog training may show results in a shorter time-span.

Aversive Dog Training – Bad 1

May cause loss of trust.

One of the most dangerous aspects of aversive dog training is losing our dog’s trust.

Care must be taken not to over-correct him. We always want to try and set our dog up for success, and reduce the chances of him making mistakes. If we are seen as the frequent source of unpleasant things, he will lose trust in us, and may start to avoid us.

The trick of implementing aversive methods is redirection. We want to make it seem like the source of unpleasantness is not coming from us, but is a direct result of his inappropriate actions.

For example, spraying bitter apple on furniture is an effective and safe aversive method, because the dog does not associate the smelly furniture with us. Instead, he discovers on his own, that certain pieces of wood and stuffing have an unpleasant taste, so it is best to avoid them.

As soon as our dog complies with our command, we want to follow up an aversive correction with praise and rewards. This shows him that we are also the source of positive attention and good things.

When using aversive obedience training, timing is crucial.

Time our aversive correction and subsequent praise, accurately. In this way, our dog does will not get confused and frustrated, because he will know what the aversive stimulus is for, and how he can make it go away.

Aversive Dog Training – Bad 2

May encourage aggression and other unwanted side effects.

There are four ways a dog can deal with the stress of an aversive stimulus – fight, flight, freeze, or appease. Depending on the temperament of our dog, and his level of trust and respect for us, he may choose to fight or flee, rather than follow a command (appease).

We can correct this by refining our aversive technique. In particular, ensure that we are –

• Using the appropriate level of force,
• Using the right timing,
• Not over-correcting, and
• Redirecting the source of correction away from ourselves.

If a dog continuously chooses to fight, then we are encouraging aggression in him, and he may ultimately become a dangerous dog. If a dog continuously chooses to run away (flight), then we may break his spirit, and he may become a fearful and unstable dog.

If we are not careful, our dog may also associate the aversive stimulus to objects in the environment, or to the environment itself. For example, if a leash jerk is always applied whenever he sees another dog, he may start to associate the pain with the other dog, rather than to his lunging and jumping actions. This may make him aggressive or fearful toward other dogs.

In fact, this University of Pennsylvania 2009 study shows that at least 25% of the dogs that are trained with confrontational methods, exhibit aggression during training.

“This study highlights the risk of dominance-based training, which has been made popular by TV, books and punishment-based training advocates,”Herron said. “These techniques are fear-eliciting and may lead to owner-directed aggression.”

Aversive Dog Training may encourage aggression and other unwanted side effects.

Aversive Dog Training – Bad 3

May injure our dog if not implemented correctly.

When we are using an aversive collar such as a choke chain or prong collar, make sure to consult a trainer on how to fit it, and properly use it. The choke chain is especially dangerous as it can cause harm with extended use, even when fitted properly.

All pain and dominance-based aversive methods, are best implemented under the direction of a trained professional.

Incorrect implementation of some of these techniques, may cause physical harm to our dog, as well as physical harm to us and others, if the dog becomes aggressive.

Aversive Dog Training – Bad 4

May become ineffective once our dog gets habituated to the aversive stimulus.

If we overuse an aversive method, our dog will probably become habituated to it. Once this occurs, he will be less motivated to respond to our commands, because he has become used to experiencing a certain level of pain.

At this point, increasing the force of our aversive stimulus may be necessary, and this will increase wear and tear on our dog. To avoid this possibility, apply the proper amount of force from the beginning (not too hard or too soft). The actual force needed will depend on the reason for the correction, and on the temperament of our dog.

It is best to get a professional trainer to show us the proper amount of force needed, so that we do not over-correct or under-correct our dog.

What do you think of aversive dog training?

Aversive methods are more visceral, and have a more pronounced effect, especially in the short term. However, as described above, pain based techniques are also risky and can increase aggression in our dogs. Pain will also increase stress and lower quality of life.

Does aversive dog training work?

It depends on what we mean by work.

If we are interested in providing a good quality of life for our dog, then it is best to apply reward training methods, which are safer and leads to a strong dog-human bond.

Walking has not been very fun lately.

Both the Pungent-One and the Female in my pack have started to jerk my leash during walks. Sometimes this happens very often.

Walks are more fun without the constant pain in the neck.

It is painful especially when the Pungent-Male does it. When the-Female one does it, it is merely annoying. I am getting really irritated by this.

For now, I will give them the benefit of the doubt. They seem pretty clueless and do not know any better. But this cannot continue indefinitely – ultimately, I am going to have to show them the error of their ways.

It is exactly behavior like this that makes 2-legs strange, incomprehensible, and untrustworthy.

2-legs do not understand that if I wanted to, I could also use aversive techniques on them, and I am much better and more accurate at applying my bites than they will ever be.

I am much better and more accurate at applying aversive techniques than 2-legs will ever be. Look at my teeth!

If they do not want me to bite them, then it is only fair that they show me the same courtesy.

But 2-legs is only 2-legs. They are slow to learn, so I will give them some time.

Plus, they give me cheese … For the sake of cheese I will be patient, use small words, and speak very slowly. I will go now and have a dream about cheese … ummmm CHEESE.

Shiba Sephy dreaming about cheese.

Shiba Wisdom
Dear 2-legs,

You have thin skin, weak legs, and small teeth. You cannot run very fast, are easily hurt, and have weak, inaccurate bites. In a fair physical fight, you cannot win. So why do you choose this way of fighting?

I have been doing some reading on 2-legs and I know you have big brains and can do some things better than I can – like make cheese! If I were you I would focus on brain and cheese skills.

If you choose to fight, and force me to fight back, then everybody will lose in the end.

If you choose to fight, and force me to fight back, then everybody will lose. If you give me trust and respect, I will also return in kind.