Training your dog may seem like a simple process, but any dog parent knows that it’s not as simple as it may look. In fact, if you don’t use the right training methods, you may find that your dog is unresponsive, stubborn, or just flat-out not interested in training. For this reason, it’s important to learn more about dog training and the best methods before you get started.
The good news is that we’re here to help. Read on to learn more about the best dog training methods.
The Four Best Dog Training Methods
There are tons of dog training methods to choose from. Some have been around for hundreds of years, and others are more progressive and science-based. Learn more about some of the best dog training methods below.
1. Positive Reinforcement
The best dog training method is positive reinforcement. You can’t go wrong with positive reinforcement because all you’re doing is rewarding your dog for positive behaviors without scolding them for making mistakes. This ensures that dogs look forward to training sessions instead of being anxious or nervous. This is especially important if you’ve just adopted a dog, as they may have been through hard experiences that can make trusting difficult. (To help even more, we suggest adopting from Dog Academy’s state-specific guides, like this Texas dog adoption guide, as you’ll get a pup from a reputable source, plus they offer positive reinforcement training courses online.)
Positive reinforcement is also one of the few dog training methods that can be applied to almost every training routine. Whether that’s agility training or teaching your dog advanced commands, positive reinforcement is applicable and a great way to get started, even for first-time dog parents.
2. Bonded Training
Another training method is one that involves cultivating a relationship with your dog. After all, if you expect them to learn about your commands and cues, shouldn’t you learn more about theirs? Once you and your dog understand each other, training becomes a lot easier.
This method of training is a bit more of a time-sink than other dog training methods, but it can help you build a solid foundation. Plus, it’s effective because you’ll get to learn all about your dog’s behaviors. Since every dog is unique, this will help you better understand their personality.
3. Classical Conditioning
Have you ever heard of Pavlov’s dog? Well, this is a method of training that comes from Ivan Pavlov, who ran an experiment using a bell and meat powder. While this might sound a little odd at first, the results can help you with your dog training moving forward.
In the experiment, Pavlov would ring a bell and then spray the meat spray into the dog’s mouth. This would cause the dog to salivate. Eventually, Pavlov stopped spraying the spray and instead started to just ring the bell. Even without the spray, the dog would salivate.
The result of this experiment shows that dogs can be conditioned to behave in certain ways, especially if they expect something. For example, if you grab your dog’s leash, they may get excited for a walk. You can apply this to training by creating a set time, rewards, and a positive environment for them.
4. The Clicker Training Method
Another great training method is the clicker training method. This method is similar to positive reinforcement and even takes some inspiration from Pavlov’s experiments. The purpose of this training method is to play a sound from a handheld clicker device when a dog successfully completes a task.
After the dog completes the task and you make the clicker sound, giving them a reward will help them associate that sound and training with rewards. Over time, your dog will come to recognize the clicker sound as a job well done. You can then use this for behavior changes, advanced training, and much more.
Dog Training Methods to Avoid
It’s important to note that not all dog training methods are backed by science. Furthermore, some methods may lead to negative outcomes or tarnish the relationship between you and your canine companion.
The main dog training method that you should avoid is one that’s strictly based on negative reinforcement. Constantly scolding your dog or getting physical with them will lead to bad outcomes, even if you also give them positive reinforcement.
We also recommend against using electronic collars or anything that causes physical pain. This is a type of negative reinforcement and will lead to similar outcomes.
Leverage the Best Dog Training Methods Today
Using the best dog training methods will provide the best outcomes for you and your dog. While we always recommend starting with a foundation of positive reinforcement, some other methods can also work if you want to teach your dog more advanced tricks, agility, or commands.