The Three Popular Dog Training Methods

#AlphaDogTraining #dogtrainingsaltlakecity The Three Popular Dog Training Methods Published by Alpha Dog Training https://www.alpha-dog-training-slc.com (801) 910-1700 So, you decided to add a dog to your family. Congratulations! And, you’ve finally gotten settled with young Fido, but now that you’ve been able to spend some quality time with him, you realize that there may be more to pet-ownership than you considered. Training a dog can be one of the most arduous tasks of pet-ownership, but it’s necessary in order to keep your family and your dog happy — and you, sane! There are a few different approaches families can take to train a pet. Every dog trainer and pet manual seems to advocate a different style for teaching your pup. Though it seems confusing at first, they all boil down to three main techniques: the traditional dominance method, the scientific method, and the positive reinforcement method. The first two are the most widely used methods, and science-based training is becoming more popular, as veterinarians continue to research and understand dogs and what makes them tick — and wag. Traditional Dominance Training The traditional method of training became popular around World War II, when the military used force to train dogs and ensure that they followed commands. Traditional trainers will use corrections such as yanking a leash when attempting to get a dog to heel or using a shock collar to assure a dog stays within limits. Similarly, popular dog trainer Cesar Millan would probably fit best in the traditional training category, as he uses dominance theory in his training methods. Dominance theory draws much of its principles from information gathered from studies done on wolf packs, and has become somewhat controversial since Millan’s show, “The Dog Whisperer." Scientific Training “There are more effective, quicker, more humane techniques, based on the appropriate control of resources, use of good communication interaction patterns and positive techniques, which are more effective and have better durability.” In the science-based method, rewards are given when the dog performs adequately and taken away for unwanted behaviors. This method involves trainers working “with the dog” instead of simply commanding the dog. With this approach, animals are taught the desired behaviors first using rewards, but also taught that the unwanted behaviors don’t work it’s clear the dog will not get it.” So the dog learns that the unwanted jumping behavior does not work, only the polite sitting behavior works. And force and coercion are not needed. The polite sitting behavior is rewarded which leads to “positive reinforcement.” Positive Reinforcement Training The final method of training is one where the dog is supposedly never reprimanded and only ever rewarded for his actions. Unwanted behaviors are simply ignored. Trainers who use clickers and only positive reinforcement without applying any negative reinforcement This method doesn’t work effectively because it can’t teach the dog that he is doing something wrong. This method fails to help dogs understand which behaviors they should avoid and worse, by ignoring unwanted behavior, it allows the dogs to actually get rewarded for these behaviors. In general, a healthy medium between positive reinforcement and clear rules is best, found in the science-based method and what is recommended by veterinarians today. There are a few concepts that do pervade all schools of thought, however. The trainer needs to have the skill and knowledge necessary to provide “guidance” for the dog. Positive feedback and strong communication between all parties involved” is the best route.