​A Journey Through Four Decades of Dog Training: Embracing Reward-Based Methods

When I first stepped into the world of dog training 40 years ago, it was a vastly different landscape. The prevalent belief among trainers was rooted in dominance theory, where the idea was to establish control over a dog by asserting human dominance as the "alpha." This approach often led to methods that, in retrospect, seem harsh and unnecessary. However, even in those early days, I found myself naturally gravitating towards a reward-based style of training, a philosophy that was not widely accepted or understood at the time.  I started training dogs and horses at a young age.  By 21 I was a British Horse Society Assistant Instructor, but a back injury while eventing stopped my horse riding for a few years.  I subsequently went to University to study Social Psychology alongside my dog training.

🐾 The Evolution of Dog Training

Back in the early days of my career, dominance theory was the cornerstone of dog training. This theory was based on the assumption that dogs are driven by an innate desire to establish a hierarchical order, similar to what was observed in CAPTURED wolves that were not part of a genuine pack. As a result, training often involved corrective measures that aimed to suppress undesirable behaviour through punishment or aversive techniques.
However, over the years, a shift began to occur. Researchers and trainers alike started to question the dominance model, particularly as our understanding of canine behaviour and psychology improved. Studies debunked the myth of the "alpha dog" and the necessity of establishing dominance. Instead, they revealed that dogs thrive in environments where they feel safe, understood, and motivated by positive reinforcement.
This gradual shift in perspective aligned perfectly with my own experiences and beliefs. I had always observed that dogs responded better to encouragement and rewards rather than fear-based tactics. It was incredibly rewarding to see the training community begin to embrace these ideas, validating the approach I had long believed was most effective.

🐾 The Science Behind Reward-Based Training

Today's dog training methodologies are firmly rooted in science, particularly in the principles of learning theory and behavioral psychology. At the heart of modern training is the concept of positive reinforcement, where desired behaviours are rewarded, making them more likely to occur in the future. This method leverages the natural learning processes of dogs, focusing on their motivations and understanding their individual personalities.
Positive reinforcement is not just about handing out treats; it’s about building a relationship based on trust and mutual respect. By rewarding a dog for good behaviour, we are teaching them what we want them to do rather than focusing on punishing them for what we don’t want. This approach not only strengthens the bond between dog and trainer but also creates a positive learning environment where dogs are eager and willing to learn.
Moreover, positive reinforcement has been shown to lead to more reliable and consistent behaviour. Dogs trained with these methods are often more confident, less fearful, and exhibit lower levels of stress. This is because they associate training with positive outcomes, which fosters a love for learning and a strong desire to cooperate.

🐾 Why Reward-Based Training is Best

The benefits of reward-based training extend far beyond just effective behaviour management. It encourages a deeper connection between humans and dogs, rooted in understanding and empathy. This style of training also allows for flexibility, accommodating the unique needs of each dog, which is crucial given the diversity of breeds, temperaments, and individual quirks.
Furthermore, reward-based training is adaptable and can be used to teach a wide range of behaviours, from basic obedience to complex tricks and even addressing behavioural issues. It promotes an atmosphere of positivity, which not only makes the training process enjoyable but also helps to prevent behavioural problems related to fear and anxiety.
In contrast, methods based on dominance or punishment can lead to a host of negative consequences, including increased aggression, anxiety, and a breakdown in the trust between dog and owner. These approaches often fail to address the root cause of behaviour issues and instead suppress them temporarily, which can result in more significant problems down the line.

🐾 Reflecting on Four Decades of Dog Training

Looking back on my 40 years in the field, it’s heartening to see how far the world of dog training has come. The shift towards reward-based training reflects a broader understanding and appreciation for the complex, intelligent beings that dogs are. They are not just pets; they are companions, partners, and friends who deserve to be treated with kindness and respect.
As I continue to train dogs, I am more committed than ever to this positive approach, knowing that it not only yields the best results but also honours the bond we share with our canine companions. Today’s dog training methods are a testament to the power of empathy, patience, and understanding—a philosophy I have held dear from the very beginning.

In a world that has finally caught up with the way I have always believed dogs should be trained, I find great satisfaction in knowing that I have been a part of this evolution. And as the field continues to advance, I look forward to seeing how we can further refine and improve our training techniques, always with the well-being of our dogs at the forefront.  I am currently studying with Dog Training College, as training never stops.