E230- Punish Or Praise: The Dog Training Controversy. Dr. Stephanie Yue Cottee | The No Bad Dogs Podcast
Oct 30, 2023
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Dr. Stephanie Cottee, an animal welfare scientist, discusses topics such as choosing the right breed, mental stimulation for dogs, misuse of science-based training, understanding dogs in need, and the controversy over training methods. They debate force-free vs aversive tools, analyze force-free training with an ice cream diet analogy, and emphasize the importance of a balanced approach. They also discuss the ineffectiveness of using 'no' as a command, misconceptions about prong collars, and the importance of open discussion in dog training controversies.
Both force-free and balanced dog training approaches have merits and limitations.
It is crucial to consider the individual dog's needs and challenges when selecting a training approach.
Educate oneself about different training approaches and make an informed decision based on what is best for the dog and owner.
Balance training involves a toolbox of methods, including positive reinforcement and positive punishment, when necessary.
Force-free training ignores biological principles of learning and limits the ability to discourage unwanted behaviors.
The dog training community should prioritize evidence-based training and consider a range of methods.
Deep dives
The Importance of Balance in Dog Training
There is a growing divide in the dog training world between force-free, positive reinforcement methods and those that incorporate aversive tools. Many dog owners are caught in the confusion and don't know which approach to choose. It is essential to understand that both approaches have their merits and limitations. The force-free approach focuses on purely positive reinforcement and rewards to shape behavior, creating a happy and willing learner. On the other hand, the balanced approach incorporates aversive tools like prong collars or e-collars, but emphasizes using them properly and humanely. It is essential to consider the individual dog's needs, training goals, and the expertise of the trainer in choosing the training approach that will yield the best results.
The Importance of Individualized Training
When seeking dog training, it is crucial to remember that every dog is unique and will respond differently to various training methods. One-size-fits-all approaches may not be effective or appropriate in every case. Dog owners should consider their dog's temperament, energy level, and specific challenges when selecting a training approach. Working with a professional trainer who can provide tailored guidance and support can help ensure that the training is effective and meets the individual needs of the dog and owner.
The Need for Clear Communication and Education
The dog training landscape can be confusing and overwhelming for dog owners. It is important to educate oneself about different training approaches, evaluate their pros and cons, and make an informed decision based on what is best for the individual dog and owner. Clear communication between the dog owner and the trainer is essential, ensuring that training goals and expectations are understood and met. By seeking guidance from experienced professionals and conducting thorough research, dog owners can find the training approach that aligns with their values and yields positive results for their furry companions.
Understanding the Misconceptions of Balance Training
Balance training is often misrepresented as using negative punishment, which is not effective. In reality, balance training involves having a toolbox of training methods, including positive reinforcement and positive punishment. The notion of balance training causing a lack of motivation or hammering dogs is incorrect, as trainers do not constantly apply corrections. Instead, corrections are used to address specific behaviors, while positive reinforcement is used to teach desired behaviors.
Challenging the Notion of Force-Free Training
The idea of force-free training suggests that using tools or corrections is unnecessary and ineffective. However, this perspective ignores the biological principles of learning observed in animals, including dogs. It is important to consider that force-free training focuses solely on positive reinforcement, which limits the ability to discourage unwanted behaviors. The efficacy of force-free training is questioned when animals in nature communicate through corrections and consequences. A more balanced approach, incorporating positive reinforcement and positive punishment, respects the natural learning processes of animals.
The Importance of Evidence-Based Training
The dog training community should prioritize evidence-based training rather than relying solely on surveys or biased studies. Some published research fails to consider important factors such as the trainer's experience, the specific tools used, and the level of application. Valid scientific studies should consider a range of training methods and highlight the benefits of balanced training. It is crucial to debunk misinformation, engage in open discussions, and focus on what truly benefits dogs through a well-rounded approach to training.
The ineffectiveness of positive-only training methods
Positive-only training methods that focus solely on rewarding dogs can be ineffective in addressing certain behaviors. The podcast episode highlights a case where a dog owner had tried multiple trainers and a behaviorist who advocated for positive-only methods, but the dog's reactivity and fearfulness persisted. The podcast argues that using rewards alone may not address the underlying issues and may not provide clear guidance for the dog. The episode emphasizes the importance of considering other training approaches, including corrections, to effectively modify behavior and create a better, less stressful environment for the dog.
The detrimental effects of chronic stress on dogs
Chronic stress in dogs resulting from unresolved behavioral issues can have severe negative effects on their well-being. The podcast discusses the case of a dog that had endured months of ineffective positive-only training, leading to ongoing anxiety and reactivity. The episode points out that sustained high levels of stress have a detrimental impact on a dog's welfare, leading to issues such as constant vigilance, fear, and frustration. It highlights the importance of finding a training approach that addresses a dog's needs and reduces chronic stress to improve their overall quality of life.
The need for a balanced training approach
The podcast advocates for a balanced training approach that combines positive reinforcement with appropriate corrections when necessary. It challenges the notion that corrections are inherently abusive or harmful to dogs, emphasizing that corrections can serve as a necessary part of effective training. The episode shares examples of dogs reacting anxiously in certain situations and how timely corrections can redirect their behavior, ultimately resulting in a more relaxed and manageable dog. It advocates for a thoughtful and contextually appropriate use of correction tools, such as prong collars or e-collars, to provide clear communication to the dog and achieve lasting behavioral changes.
The Importance of Defining Dog Training Terms
One of the main reasons for the ongoing disagreements in dog training is the lack of consensus on definitions. Terms such as 'trained dog' or 'recall' can have vastly different meanings depending on who you ask. Without a clear understanding of what these terms mean, it becomes challenging to have productive conversations about training methods. Each person may claim to have a trained dog or effective recall, but without agreed-upon definitions, it is impossible to determine if these claims are accurate. Establishing standardized definitions is crucial to evaluate the efficacy of training methods.
The Need for Measurable Metrics in Dog Training
In order to assess the effectiveness of different training methods, it is essential to establish measurable metrics. Just like in medical research or scientific studies, clear criteria and measurable outcomes are crucial. Without agreed-upon metrics, discussions about training methods can quickly devolve into subjective opinions. For example, if one person claims their dog has a reliable recall, their definition may differ significantly from another person's definition. The level of reliability and the rate of response need to be clearly defined and agreed upon for meaningful comparisons. Establishing measurable metrics can help promote more objective discussions and evaluations of training methods.
The importance of individualized approaches to dog training
Dog owners should seek out training methods that work best for them and their dogs. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, and what works for one dog may not work for another. It is important to consider the specific needs and behaviors of the dog and to be open to trying different training techniques.
The influence of misinformation and conflicting advice in the dog training industry
There is a significant amount of conflicting advice and misinformation in the dog training industry, making it difficult for dog owners to navigate. Some trainers and media outlets push extreme views and promote certain methods while demonizing others. Dog owners should rely on their own judgment, seek out reliable sources, and consider the real-life experiences of other dog owners when making decisions about their dog's training.
In this dog training podcast, Tom Davis sits down with Dr. Stephanie. Cottee. Dr. Cottee is an animal welfare scientist with a Ph.D and also trains and breeds German Shepherds. This is a very in-depth conversation with a world-renowned dog behavioral expert and a scientist with a Ph.D. in animal welfare. This creates a unique, objective conversation about the welfare of our dogs and the dog owners who are looking desperately for answers. The dog training industry can be confusing, frustrating, and misleading. We wanted this conversation. to show all aspects and considerations.
