Dog training red flags

Here’s a reminder that if your trainer uses words like:

-dominant

-stubborn

-independent

-aloof

-assertive

To justify using punishment-based training, please walk away and find another trainer.

Here are some more red flags:

They talk about being alpha/ top of the pecking order/ the boss. This is based on totally outdated and old science, which even the scientist who originally proposed it said was wrong.

”It’s what the mother dog would do” as they yank on the dog’s throat, jab at them, give them an electric shock. If anybody has seen a litter of pups with their mum, she is extremely gentle. Any growling or mouthing she may apply is done so it doesn’t cause harm to her puppies. The interaction between mum and pups is about gentle communication, not hurting them, and if it looks harsh then you probably don’t understand canine body language.

”You have to eat before your dog and walk through doorways before them, otherwise they’ll think they’re the boss.” Again, this just isn’t true.

”An aggressive dog needs a firm hand.” A lot of aggression stems from anxiety, and meeting that anxiety with hostility on your side won’t make your dog feel more comfortable. An aggressive dog needs a knowledgeable, understanding and kind hand.

If they say something along the lines of “it’s all your fault” or “it’s about how you raise them”. Sure, there are likely things that can be tweaked and adjusted, and socialisation is incredibly important, but behaviour isn’t as simple as good owner= perfect dog. It’s complex, with genetics, epigenetics, utero and early life, experiences, pain and much more playing roles in how a dog can behave.

”I can fix any dog in one session” translates to “I can suppress your dog’s emotions so much in one session that they look fixed, until you get them home and realise they’re even worse than before”

Be careful out there, finding a good trainer or behaviourist can be a bit of a minefield!