The bond we share with our canine companions is truly special, a unique connection built on trust, affection, and mutual understanding. As devoted dog owners, we constantly strive to provide the best possible care, and that often includes investing in training to help our furry friends navigate the human world. In recent years, there’s been a wonderful shift towards more humane, reward-based training methods, which prioritize positive reinforcement to shape desirable behaviors and strengthen the relationship between dog and owner. This is fantastic news for our pets, as science consistently shows these gentle approaches are not only incredibly effective but also immensely beneficial for a dog’s overall welfare.
However, despite this progress, the landscape of dog training remains unregulated. This unfortunate reality means that some trainers still advocate for and use outdated, aversive methods—techniques that rely on fear and pain rather than positive motivation. These methods, often marketed as quick fixes or “last resorts,” carry significant risks that can profoundly impact a dog’s emotional and physical health, leading to increased fear, anxiety, and even aggression. It’s a sobering thought that practices intended to improve a dog’s behavior could, in fact, cause lasting harm.
Veterinarians, with their deep understanding of animal health and well-being, are at the forefront of advocating for truly humane training. They witness firsthand the detrimental effects of aversive methods and passionately wish owners would abandon these practices. In this in-depth guide, we’ll delve into eight specific dog training methods and misguided beliefs that vets sincerely hope will become a thing of the past. Our aim is to provide clear, actionable insights so you can ensure your training approach fosters a happy, confident, and well-adjusted companion.
1. **Applying Shock Collars**One of the most concerning tools that veterinarians wish owners would stop applying is the shock collar, often referred to as an e-collar. These devices deliver an electric shock to a dog, typically as a form of positive punishment—meaning an unpleasant stimulus is applied after an undesirable behavior to decrease its occurrence. While some may argue for their efficacy, the scientific evidence and expert consensus paint a very different picture, highlighting substantial risks to a dog’s welfare.
The core issue with shock collars, like all aversive methods, is their reliance on fear and pain to motivate dogs. The science on dog training unequivocally shows a direct link between the use of aversive methods and a range of negative outcomes. These include “increased fear, anxiety, aggression, stress (and resulting health risks), as well as increased pessimism and a worse relationship with the owner.” This isn’t just about discomfort; it’s about fundamentally altering a dog’s emotional state and its perception of the world, and crucially, its relationship with its human.
Moreover, the very premise of using shock collars for training lacks scientific justification. As the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) position statement clarifies, “There is no evidence that aversive methods are more effective than reward-based methods in any context.” This statement is further bolstered by a review of literature on electronic collars, where Masson et al. (2018) explicitly state: “There is no credible scientific evidence to justify e-collar use and the use of spray collars or electronic fences for dogs.”
For dogs that are already fearful or anxious, the use of a shock collar is particularly damaging. Aversive methods do not address the root cause of fear and anxiety; instead, “rather, they make it worse.” Effective training for fearful dogs involves managing their environment to prevent situations that trigger fear and then applying kind, humane methods to resolve the fear itself. Introducing a tool that inflicts pain or fear only compounds the problem, creating a deeper sense of insecurity and distress for the animal.
2. **Employing Prong Collars**Another contentious tool that veterinarians strongly advise against is the prong collar, sometimes called a pinch collar. These collars feature metal spikes or prongs that dig into a dog’s neck when pressure is applied, designed to create discomfort or pain to deter pulling or other unwanted behaviors. Much like shock collars, prong collars fall squarely into the category of aversive methods, which are increasingly recognized as detrimental to canine well-being.
The fundamental problem with prong collars stems from their operating principle: they motivate dogs through the application of “fear and pain.” When a dog experiences discomfort or pain, their natural response is often to become fearful or anxious, which can then escalate into more serious behavioral issues. The science consistently demonstrates that methods built on punishment can lead to an array of negative consequences, including “increased fear, anxiety, aggression, stress (and resulting health risks), as well as increased pessimism and a worse relationship with the owner.”
Veterinary experts emphasize that there is simply no need for such tools in effective dog training. Reward-based methods have proven to be highly successful, allowing dogs to learn through positive associations and clear communication, rather than coercion. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) affirms this by stating, “There is no evidence that aversive methods are more effective than reward-based methods in any context,” a sentiment that extends to prong collars as much as it does to any other aversive tool.
Furthermore, the definition of positive punishment in academic studies includes “leash jerks (with either choke or pinch collars),” clearly categorizing the action and the tool within the realm of techniques that apply unpleasant stimuli. While the immediate goal might be to stop a dog from pulling, the long-term impact on the dog’s emotional state and its trust in its owner can be profoundly negative. Owners might see a temporary cessation of pulling, but they may inadvertently be fostering a fearful or stressed animal.
3. **Using Aversive Leash Corrections**Aversive leash corrections, often involving sharp tugs or jerks on the leash with a choke, slip, or even flat collar, are another method veterinarians frequently wish owners would discontinue. These corrections are a classic example of positive punishment, where an unpleasant stimulus (the jerk) is applied to suppress an undesirable behavior, such as pulling on the leash or lunging at another dog. While seemingly innocuous to some, these corrections can cause significant physical discomfort and psychological distress for dogs.
Such corrections, by their very nature, “rely on fear and pain to motivate dogs.” Instead of teaching a dog what *to* do, they focus on punishing what *not* to do, creating a climate of anxiety and uncertainty. Dogs may learn to associate the presence of other dogs, people, or even simply walking on a leash with the anticipation of a painful correction, leading to generalized fear and avoidance behaviors. This punitive approach directly contradicts the goal of fostering a confident and relaxed companion.
The scientific literature clearly links aversive methods, including harsh leash corrections, to adverse outcomes in dogs. These include the risks of “increased fear, anxiety, aggression, stress (and resulting health risks), as well as increased pessimism and a worse relationship with the owner.” Instead of building a stronger bond, these methods can erode trust, making a dog wary of its handler and the very act of being on a leash. The short-term cessation of a behavior often comes at the cost of long-term emotional well-being.
Moreover, the comprehensive study detailed in the context highlights that “dogs from Group Aversive displayed more stress-related behaviors, were more frequently in tense and low behavioral states and panted more during training, and exhibited higher post-training increases in cortisol levels” compared to dogs trained with reward-based methods. Aversive leash corrections contribute significantly to these indicators of stress during training. When a dog is frequently subjected to jerks and discomfort, its physiological stress response is heightened, impacting its ability to learn and its overall happiness, both during and after training sessions.
4. **Motivating Dogs Through Fear and Pain**Beyond specific tools, one of the most fundamental training philosophies that veterinarians desperately wish owners would abandon is the motivation of dogs through fear and pain. This overarching principle underpins all aversive training methods, whether it’s the use of a shock collar, a prong collar, or harsh verbal/physical corrections. It’s a method rooted in control and coercion, rather than partnership and positive reinforcement, and its impact on canine welfare is demonstrably negative and far-reaching.
The reliance on fear and pain as primary motivators has been thoroughly investigated by scientists, who have consistently identified significant risks. These risks encompass not just immediate discomfort, but profound, lasting psychological and physiological effects. These include “increased fear, anxiety, aggression, stress (and resulting health risks), as well as increased pessimism and a worse relationship with the owner.” The extensive body of research, referencing studies such as Ziv (2017), Masson et al. (2018), de Castro et al. (2019), and China et al. (2020), provides compelling evidence against such approaches.
A groundbreaking aspect of the research presented in the context is its evaluation of welfare *outside* the training context, specifically through a cognitive bias task. The findings were stark: “dogs from Group Aversive were more ‘pessimistic’ in the cognitive bias task than dogs from Group Reward.” This indicates that training methods reliant on fear and pain don’t just cause momentary stress during sessions; they can instill a persistent negative affective state, making dogs generally more pessimistic about ambiguous situations in their daily lives. This is a crucial finding, showing the prolonged impact on a dog’s quality of life.
The very purpose of training dogs, as highlighted in the introduction of the study, is “to fulfil their increasingly important role as companion animals” and “to behave in a manner appropriate for human households.” Motivating a dog through fear and pain fundamentally undermines this goal. It erodes the trust that is essential for a strong human-animal bond and can create a companion who is anxious and reactive rather than confident and well-adjusted. A dog should associate learning with positive experiences, not with the avoidance of discomfort.
Ultimately, the scientific consensus, echoed by leading veterinary organizations like the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior, is unambiguous. The AVSAB position statement emphatically declares: “There is no evidence that aversive methods are more effective than reward-based methods in any context.” This statement serves as a powerful reminder that not only are fear- and pain-based methods harmful, but they are also entirely unnecessary. Kind, humane, and effective alternatives exist, offering a pathway to successful training that nurtures rather than diminishes a dog’s spirit and well-being.
Read more about: 9 Things Your Cat Secretly Hates About You and Wishes You’d Stop Doing (Like, Right Now!)
5. **Dismissing Reward-Based Training as a “Last Resort”**It’s a common, yet deeply misguided, claim heard from some trainers: that aversive methods should be used as a “last resort” when a dog’s behavior becomes challenging. This notion suggests that positive, reward-based training somehow fails, leaving punishment as the only remaining option. However, veterinarians and leading animal behavior experts firmly reject this idea. They underscore that the very premise of a “last resort” for aversive training is flawed and dangerous.
The truth is, there are compelling reasons why aversive methods are never a justified “last resort.” First and foremost, the inherent risks associated with these techniques are too significant to ever be considered a default or final option. As scientific research consistently demonstrates, “the main reason is simply that there are risks whenever aversive methods are used.” These risks include “increased fear, anxiety, aggression, stress (and resulting health risks), as well as increased pessimism and a worse relationship with the owner.” These aren’t minor inconveniences; they are profound threats to a dog’s emotional and physical well-being.
Moreover, the belief that reward-based methods can be exhausted implies a lack of understanding of their breadth and effectiveness. Positive reinforcement techniques are incredibly versatile and powerful, capable of addressing a vast array of behavioral issues. They do this without resorting to pain or fear. Organizations like the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) and the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists explicitly recommend “the use of reward-based methods only.” This is precisely because they are effective and humane. These methods are endorsed by those who prioritize animal welfare above all else.
The notion of a “last resort” often arises from a trainer’s lack of competence or willingness to explore alternative, humane strategies. Instead of recommending a visit to a veterinary behaviorist, seeking mentorship, or making a professional referral, some trainers regrettably turn to harsh, outdated methods. This not only fails the dog but also neglects the owner’s trust. It perpetuates harmful myths about what truly constitutes effective dog training.
Ultimately, the argument for aversives as a “last resort” is built on a false premise. “Aversive methods are not even worth trying as a so-called ‘last resort’ because they may just make things worse and are bad for your dog’s welfare.” When faced with behavioral challenges, the most responsible and effective path forward always involves a deeper dive into reward-based strategies. It also includes consultation with veterinary professionals and a commitment to fostering a positive, trusting relationship with your beloved companion.
6. **Applying Physical Punishments (Beyond Collars)**While shock and prong collars receive significant attention for their aversive nature, veterinarians also earnestly wish owners would cease applying direct physical punishments and threatening gestures. These can include actions such as “slapping the dog, yelling at the dog and leaning towards the dog in a threatening way.” Such actions, though not involving a specific “tool” like a collar, are undeniably forms of positive punishment. They inflict pain or fear, and their negative impact on a dog’s welfare is just as profound and damaging.
Physical punishments immediately create an environment of apprehension and mistrust. When a dog is slapped, yelled at, or intimidated by a handler’s threatening posture, it learns to associate that human or specific situations with fear and discomfort. This directly violates the foundation of a healthy human-animal bond, which should be built on security and positive association. Instead of resolving behavior, these methods teach a dog to avoid punishment. This often suppresses outward signs of distress without addressing the underlying emotional state.
The scientific consensus on the use of physical punishment is clear, echoing concerns about aversive tools. Studies consistently link these methods to “increased fear, anxiety, aggression, stress (and resulting health risks), as well as increased pessimism and a worse relationship with the owner.” A dog regularly subjected to physical reprimands may become defensively aggressive, withdraw into itself, or develop generalized anxiety. This impacts its quality of life far beyond the training session. The goal of training should be a confident, well-adjusted dog, not one constantly on edge.
Furthermore, physical punishment, particularly “slapping the dog” or “leaning towards the dog in a threatening way,” fails to provide clear information about desired behaviors. Dogs learn best when they are shown what *to* do and rewarded for it. Punishment, especially when inconsistently applied or poorly timed, often just confuses the dog. This leads to a breakdown in communication and an escalation of unwanted behaviors as the dog tries to avoid the unpleasant stimulus. It’s a reactive approach that lacks the proactive teaching necessary for true behavioral change.
Choosing to use physical punishment, even in moments of frustration, reflects a reliance on coercion rather than genuine instruction. This approach not only harms the dog but also diminishes the joy and mutual respect that should characterize the relationship. Instead, embracing reward-based techniques fosters cooperation and understanding. It empowers owners to teach their dogs effectively while preserving their emotional well-being and strengthening the bond they share.
7. **Relying on Sustained Pressure Techniques (Negative Reinforcement)**Veterinarians also strongly advocate against training methods that rely on sustained pressure to motivate dogs, often categorized as negative reinforcement. This technique involves applying an unpleasant stimulus, such as steady pressure from a collar. It is only removed when the dog performs the desired behavior. Examples include “pulling the collar upward and releasing the pressure only when the dog sat, pulling the collar downward and releasing the pressure only when the dog laid down, and hanging the dog by the choke collar until he or she calmed down.” While pressure is eventually removed, the dog still operates under duress, learning to escape discomfort rather than engaging willingly.
The fundamental issue with sustained pressure is that it places the dog in a constant state of mild stress or anxiety until the pressure is relieved. Some might argue that the dog learns to “turn off” the pressure. However, this learning is driven by avoidance, not positive engagement. The dog is not learning that sitting is inherently rewarding; it’s learning that sitting makes the discomfort stop. This can create a fragile understanding of commands, where compliance depends on the threat of unpleasantness rather than a genuine desire to perform the behavior.
This approach, like other aversive methods, carries significant risks for the dog’s emotional landscape. The scientific literature repeatedly highlights concerns such as “increased fear, anxiety, aggression, stress (and resulting health risks), as well as increased pessimism and a worse relationship with the owner.” A dog subjected to sustained pressure during training may internalize this stress. This leads to a generalized pessimistic outlook and a reluctance to engage freely with its environment or handler. The cumulative effect of repeatedly escaping pressure can erode a dog’s confidence and joy.
Consider the detailed study referenced in the context, which found that “dogs from Group Aversive displayed more stress-related behaviors, were more frequently in tense and low behavioral states and panted more during training, and exhibited higher post-training increases in cortisol levels” compared to dogs trained with reward-based methods. Techniques involving sustained pressure contribute directly to these indicators of stress. They create physiological and behavioral responses detrimental to a dog’s welfare. It’s a method that might achieve compliance in the short term, but at a significant cost to the dog’s long-term emotional health.
For owners seeking a harmonious relationship with their dogs, abandoning sustained pressure techniques is a critical step. Reward-based training offers a far superior alternative, where dogs learn by being reinforced for performing desired actions. This not only makes learning enjoyable and effective but also builds a resilient and enthusiastic learner. It associates training with positive outcomes, strengthening the bond of trust and mutual respect between dog and owner.
8. **Overlooking Underlying Medical Issues for Behavioral Changes**Perhaps one of the most critical oversights veterinarians wish owners and trainers would address is the failure to investigate potential underlying medical issues when a dog exhibits behavioral changes. It’s a common misconception that all behavioral problems stem solely from training deficiencies or “stubbornness.” However, as medical science advances, “we have a much better understanding of the fact that medical issues can result in behavior changes in dogs.” Pain, discomfort, or illness can manifest as aggression, anxiety, house-soiling, or a sudden reluctance to perform previously learned behaviors. Yet, these physical ailments often go unrecognized.
This is why a visit to the veterinarian is paramount “anytime we suspect that pain or another issue might be affecting their behavior.” Dog trainers, while skilled in behavior modification, are not qualified to diagnose medical conditions. Their role, when a training plan isn’t working as expected or a sudden change occurs, should always include suggesting a veterinary check-up. The potential for a trainer to “get out a shock or prong collar” instead of recommending a vet visit is indeed a “horrifying thought.” It not only perpetuates the risks of aversive methods but also allows an underlying medical issue to remain untreated, causing continued suffering for the dog.
Specialists exist at the intersection of medicine and behavior for precisely these complex scenarios. “They’re called veterinary behaviorists,” who are veterinarians with extensive, certified training in animal behavior. These experts are uniquely equipped to diagnose and treat conditions where physical health and psychological well-being are intertwined. Your primary veterinarian is the gateway to these specialized services, capable of providing referrals when a dog’s behavioral challenges suggest a deeper medical root.
Ignoring a potential medical cause and simply intensifying aversive training can have devastating consequences. Imagine a dog lunging due to pain from arthritis, or being anxious due to a thyroid imbalance, and then being subjected to shock or prong collar corrections. Such an approach not only fails to alleviate the original problem but actively increases the dog’s distress. It potentially exacerbates the medical condition and creates new behavioral issues rooted in fear and chronic stress. It’s a cycle of harm that can be avoided through diligent veterinary care.
The responsible approach to any significant behavioral change in a dog must begin with a comprehensive veterinary examination. This ensures that any pain, illness, or medical imbalance is identified and treated appropriately. This provides a solid foundation for any subsequent behavioral interventions. By prioritizing health first, owners can truly address the root causes of behavior. This allows for humane, effective, and lasting solutions that support their dog’s overall well-being.
Read more about: Debunking the Stigma: Unveiling the Truth Behind 13 Pervasive Mental Health Myths
As we conclude our comprehensive look into the training methods veterinarians wish owners would stop, it becomes abundantly clear that the path to a well-behaved, happy dog is paved with kindness, understanding, and scientific insight, not fear and pain. The misguided belief in “last resort” aversives, the application of physical punishment, the use of sustained pressure, and the critical oversight of medical issues all represent practices that compromise a dog’s welfare and erode the precious bond we share. Embrace reward-based training, collaborate with your veterinarian, and remember that our canine companions deserve nothing less than our most humane and informed efforts. By doing so, we not only foster their best behavior but also nurture their spirits, creating truly joyful and confident members of our families.
