The Secret Language of Dogs

POSITIVE TRAINING

When we follow the positive training philosophy, we encourage dogs and other animals to learn, using humane, fear-free techniques that help them problem solve. We never use force and intimidation, because positive training puts the emphasis on teaching dogs what to do rather than punishing them for not doing what we want. This is a much more effective way to promote learning. Thankfully, it also helps rehabilitate dogs with anxieties, fears, aggressive behavior, and phobias.

By giving dogs some control over their own choices while gently guiding them, we allow them to adapt to novel situations and environments much more successfully. Allowing dogs to learn what works in certain situations builds their confidence while providing a healthy balance of self-discovery. This gentle guidance allows dogs to become more socially adept and emotionally balanced. We may not be naturally inclined to give up control so easily, but maintaining a good balance of independent and dependent learning makes a significant positive difference in the lives of all dogs.

There are many effective teaching techniques. Some dogs learn well through problem-solving exercises; others learn better through clicker training, lurereward, or techniques that “catch” behavior. Some trainers prefer a more cognitive approach, establishing a bond first rather than having dogs work for human approval. Others take a more behavioral approach, teaching life skills through cues and techniques like “shaping,” whereby actions and behaviors are built through reward-based training. I like to do both: focus on building a bond as well as teaching cues without pressure, guiding dogs to learn and have fun while doing so. No matter how we choose to humanely and effectively change our dog’s behavior and teach necessary life skills, we should always respect the dog’s autonomy.

Unfortunately, dog training professionals on both sides of the debate are now so focused on “training” dogs that some dogs have lost the ability to think for themselves, relying completely on people to direct them. These naturally independent problem solvers are being overwhelmed and overtrained. The positive community is well ahead of the compulsion community when it comes to encouraging dogs to think and problem solve, but we can still benefit from taking the pressure off and doing less. Shifting away from more structured training and toward developing dogs’ natural social skills and problem-solving abilities will create even happier and more confident pets.