Check out our latest products
![[PETHROOM] Cat Nail Clipper Trimmer for Indoor Cats with Circular Cut Hole (2mm) | Premium Sturdy Stainless Steel Blade Cat Claw | Safe, Easy, Accurate, Quiet & Fast | Avoid Overcutting](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/6156hi88deL._AC_SL1298_.jpg)
![[PETHROOM] Professional Eye Comb for Pets | Stainless Steel Tear Stain Remover for Cats & Dogs | Gentle Round-Head Grooming Tool | Compact & Portable for Eye Gunk Removal](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71+W758uwXL._SL1500_.jpg)
![[petora] BRUSH ON ME Gentle Facial & Eye Comb for Dogs & Cats | Smooth & Stress-Free Tear Stain Remover | Fine-Tooth Grooming Tool with Rounded Tips | Comfortable Grip for Daily Pet Grooming](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81hzVmjgV1L._SL1500_.jpg)
Take a look at the evolution of dog training — from dominance-based methods to science-backed positive reinforcement. Find out how modern techniques prioritize respect, trust, and effective communication.
Humans and dogs have lived together for millennia. Yet one of the most significant changes in the human-canine relationship occurred just 40 years ago. In the 1980s, dog training shifted towards more scientific and humane approaches. This article traces the evolution of dog training methods, and how we’ve moved from punishment to positive reinforcement.
Dog training through the ages
-
Ancient times to early 20th century – control and dominance
Studies differ on when humans first domesticated dogs. Some genetic evidence suggests dogs split from their wolf ancestors between 27,000 and 40,000 years ago. It’s commonly believed that wolves sought out human settlements in search for food. In return, they provided protection and helped with hunting.
This relationship was mutually beneficial for each species’ survival. Over generations, the most social and least aggressive wolves thrived in this environment.
As humans domesticated dogs, they assigned them additional tasks such as herding, sled pulling, and guarding. At the time, training was most likely done by imitation; young dogs learned from older and more experienced dogs. Humans also likely used verbal cues, body language, physical force, and repetition — often relying on trial and error.
Did you know? Dogs have a long history of serving in warfare. To this day, they are valuable members of military and police forces.
In the early 20th century, dog training was often based on harsh military methods and dominance theory — the idea that dogs needed to be controlled through physical punishment. Trainers widely accepted and deemed necessary aversive and inhumane training methods — from leash-jerking, hitting and kicking, to pinning dogs to the ground.
The dominance theory stems from a 1930s study conducted with captive wolves. These wolves displayed significantly different behaviors from their wild counterparts. Researchers erroneously applied the findings to wild wolves and, later, to domestic dogs. Although this theory has long since been debunked, many people still believe in it.
-
Mid to late 20th century – operant conditioning
In 1937, the American psychologist B. F. Skinner coined the term “operant conditioning.” This form of learning is based on the idea that behavior is influenced by its immediate consequences. In training, this means a dog will repeat behaviors that result in a positive outcome. Conversely, they will display behaviors less often if they have a negative outcome.
Operant conditioning consists of four quadrants:
- Positive reinforcement: Adding something positive to enhance a behavior. For example, when you give your dog a treat for sitting, he learns that sitting is rewarded and will offer the behavior more often.
- Negative reinforcement: Taking away something the dog likes in order to discourage a behavior. If you stop walking when your dog pulls on the leash, you take away the pleasure of walking until the pulling stops. The dog will learn that he gets to walk when he doesn’t pull on the leash.
- Positive punishment: Adding something the dog does not like to stop or reduce a behavior. For example, if a dog is punished with collar jerks when he pulls on the leash, he will stop pulling in order to avoid the pain.
- Negative punishment: Removing something the dog does not like to increase a behavior. For instance, pinching a dog’s ears to get him to drop an object in his mouth. The ear pinching stops when the dog drops the object.
Positive and negative reinforcement are key tools in positive training. In the 1980s, trainers popularized operant conditioning using scientifically proven, humane methods.
Did you know? The late Karen Pryor, well-known for her clicker training techniques, and Ian Dunbar, a veterinarian and animal behaviorist, pioneered positive dog training.
Karen and Ian’s influence shaped today’s positive dog training community. During that time, many trainers abandoned aversive methods in favor of positive reinforcement.
-
The 21st century – training dogs with love and respect
Dogs are no longer just working animals or pets, although many still perform vital, often lifesaving duties, working as search-and-rescue, detection, protection, service and therapy.
Today, many people consider their dogs family members. As we recognize the mental and emotional needs of our canine companions, dog training methods have changed. Today’s training incorporates a holistic approach that considers a dog’s physical and mental well-being.
Trainers use positive reinforcement to build a loving and respectful relationship with dogs while excluding harsh methods that cause fear, anxiety, and aggression.
In the past, most dogs didn’t receive much training beyond a few basics. Now, various training classes exist, including obedience, behavior workshops, puppy socialization, dog sports, and trick training. You can even find online training classes to accommodate busy schedules.
Did you know? Urban communities see training as essential since dogs must socialize with people and other dogs. City life often limits their natural behaviors, but special classes like herding or nose work help prevent problems.
Looking ahead: dog training in the future
The dog training profession lacks regulation, allowing anyone to claim the title of dog trainer and sell their services and advice. Social media platforms spread false and harmful training advice to millions, often oversimplifying the training process in short reels.
Sadly, aversive training advocates appear to be on the rise again. Maybe it’s a reflection of the current overall social mood, where aggressive and combative behaviors are tolerated and condoned.
Positive reinforcement trainers must keep educating the public about humane, safe, and effective methods. We’ve come a long way, and I hope we continue advocating for positive reinforcement training methods, and for treating our dogs — and all animals — with kindness.
3 dog trainer categories
Today’s dog trainers can be categorized into three main categories: aversive, positive reinforcement, and balanced.
- Aversive trainers still choose punishment-based methods. They believe these methods are faster and more effective than reward-based training, especially for dogs with behavior concerns.
- Positive reinforcement trainers are at the other end of the spectrum. They have truly embraced the evolution of dog training methods and subscribe to humane approaches scientifically proven to be effective and safe. They don’t use any techniques or equipment that would intimidate a dog, inflict pain, or cause fear.
- So-called balanced trainers use a mixture of punishment and rewards.
When choosing a trainer for your own dog, be sure to opt for one who uses only positive reinforcement methods.
Post Views: 472
Andrea Gronwald is a certified family dog trainer through Raise with Praise, Inc., owned and operated by Paul Owens, a leading positive dog training expert. She has worked with dogs as a volunteer for two Humane Societies. Andrea and her dog are also part of a volunteer pet therapy program for veterans. She recently started working as a trainer for a local dog training company. Andrea is a strong proponent of positive training methods.
