Why Punishment Is No Way To Train A Dog

For many years, it was common for owners to resort to physical punishment in their efforts to train a dog. We've come a long way since then, but there are owners who still see it as a viable solution to overcome difficult unwanted dog behavior.

Part of the reason is that they lose patience and become frustrated. While physical punishment will get the results desired, it does absolutely nothing towards developing a good relationship between dog and owner.

When you train a dog, the aim is to develop an understanding between the two of you but is based on mutual respect and not on fear. What you rather have your dog do your bidding because he fears you? Or would you rather have him obey because he respects you and wants to please you?

Of course, physical punishment is just one part of the equation. Yelling at your dog can also trigger fear. Also, if you're inconsistent in your approach you can leave your dog confused. For instance, if you speak in a calm voice whenever you are working with your dog, you'll come to expect it every time. If you are calm one time and tense and stressed the next, he will not be what you expect from him because he sees conflicting messages from you.

Your dog will begin to lose trust in you and whether or not you are a good pack leader worthy of the role. Once this happens, he'll become increasingly less responsive to your commands. He'll begin to challenge you for the status of power that goes with being pack leader.

Punishment does more than inflict physical or mental pain. It affects the dog's self-esteem and can cause a multitude of unwanted behaviors, among them fear aggression which is perhaps one of the worst. A dog that is fearful will become timid and apprehensive or he can become defensive and angry. In both cases, the dogs can become dangerous.

If you want to train a dog correctly, use the exact opposite of physical and mental or emotional punishment. Stay calm, repeat your commands, and if necessary gently show the dog what you want him to do. When he obeys, praise him so that he knows he is pleasing you. As well, remain consistent in your mood, your commands and your training methods.

Utilize dog training equipment when necessary. There are many gentle tools that you can use to help you in your dog training efforts.

This approach will make him a much better and more willing student who respects you and your position. Your relationship will blossom into one of mutual understanding and cooperation.

Such a relationship can bring a very fulfilling and satisfying life for both of you.

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