Companion Animal Welfare

Dog Training: Evidence Base for Positive Methods

The scientific evidence strongly supports positive reinforcement-based training methods for dogs, both for effectiveness and for welfare, compared to aversive methods.

Key Facts

Studies show that aversive training methods increase dog stress, fear and aggression
Dogs trained with punishment show more signs of anxiety including yawning, lip-licking and tail-tucking
Reward-based training produces equivalent or better learning outcomes with fewer welfare costs
The use of electronic shock collars is banned in Wales, Scotland and several European countries
Professional bodies including the APDT and AVSAB recommend only positive reinforcement methods

Welfare Considerations

The training method used with a dog has profound welfare implications beyond the training session itself. Dogs trained with punishment-based methods show chronic stress responses and are more likely to display aggression toward owners and strangers. Positive reinforcement builds trust and engagement while achieving training goals. The evidence is now sufficient to consider aversive training a welfare harm.

What You Can Do

Choose a trainer who uses only reward-based methods
Avoid trainers who use prong collars, choke chains or shock collars
Learn about learning theory and operant conditioning to understand how dogs learn
Advocate for a ban on aversive training devices in your country