AVSAB Statement on Humane Dog Training
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) came out with an article in 2021 stating that the only humane way to train a dog is through positive reinforcement. Within the article, they mention that dogs trained with aversive methods showed stress-related behaviors during training. These tells can sometimes be hard to notice, so keep an eye out for: tense body, lower body posture, lip licking, tail lowering, lifting a front leg, panting, yawning, and yelping. Meanwhile, the dogs trained with reward-based methods showed more attentiveness to their owner.
There is an ongoing association between aversive training methods and long-term behavioral problems. This can include, but is not limited to, aggressive reactions to people and animals, avoidance, and intense excitability. As with all studies, correlation does not equal causation. There are 2 reasons why there would be such a high correlation between aversive dog training methods and undesirable behavior: 1) the training methods directly cause or contribute to the development of undesirable behaviors or 2) Owners are more likely to use aversive methods with dogs that have behavioral issues.
The training effectiveness of reward-based training has been shown to be more effective than aversive methods. Studies also find a higher obedience level in dogs trained with reward-based methods. “Balanced” trainers (those who use aversive and reward-based training methods) show a lower level of obedience than strictly reward-based training, and higher than those who only use aversive training methods.
Shock collar training is often used with recall. Even when owners were using the collar as intended, there is no difference in the effectiveness between that and reward-based training. Dogs trained with shock collars and other aversive methods statistically do not have as strong a bond with their owner than if they had been trained with positive reinforcement. Dogs trained with physical punishment are also less likely to interact with their pet parent during play.
Have you ever wondered what stress does to your dog? Scientists have studied this by looking at cortisol levels in dogs during training. Cortisol is released in dogs and humans for both positive and negative emotional arousal: a small burst of the hormone is released when we are happy, but a lot is released when you or your dog is having a negative emotion. De Castro et al (2020) found that dogs trained with aversive methods showed higher elevations of cortisol compared to dogs trained only with reward-based techniques. This higher cortisol level is also paired with stress behaviors (stated above).
Ultimately, studies have shown that reward-based training is best for your dog’s well-being, as well as for your relationship with them. If you wish to make a best friend and family member out of your new bundle of joy, try using positive reinforcement training methods instead of going to find a “quick fix” with aversive methods. In the end, you’ll get further and be closer to your dog.
