BEHAVIOR
tools + so-called balanced training
At GHK9, we only use the most effective and safest methods and tools. Old school “balanced” methods use both rewards and punishment. With modern knowledge and skills, however, we do not have to rely on this approach. It can be tempting to rely on a variety of tools and methods that use intimidation, threats, discomfort and pain, but these strategies have side effects and risks that are not worth it. We can get better results with other tools and methods. Here are some key things to note:
The dog should be told “no”?
While this may feel true, it is easier for the dog to learn a better thing TO DO than to just be told “NO”. At GHK9, we do implement safe and kindly imposed boundaries for dogs. Kindness does not have to be permissive.
Dogs do not feel pain?
Often, you may hear that dogs do not feel pain the way humans do. This is partially true, but the facts do not support the use of discomfort and pain in training a dog. Dogs actually have more nerve endings per square inch of skin than humans – but they also were bred by humans to have the drive to do jobs despite intense (even life-threatening) pain. Even humans can work through intense pain if they have to, or if it is required for survival. It is not ethical to exploit this in dogs if there is a better way to teach them, however.
seeking system versus avoidance system
When we use things the dog enjoys to reinforce them for behavior we like, we are manipulating the “seeking system”. This system functions for foraging, eating, playing, resting, and other activities that feel good. Most of these things strengthen the dog’s relationship with you, their trust in the systems you are teaching them, their motivation and confidence in the world.
When we use things the dog dislikes, finds uncomfortable, or fears in order to shut down behavior we do not like, we are manipulating the “avoidance system”. This system is designed to keep the dog away from dangerous things so they can survive. These strategies tend to weaken the dog’s relationship with people, undermine their trust in training systems and create a cautious, avoidant or anxious learner. Here is more information about the long-term costs that come with relying on punishment systems.
If we want a companion dog with reliable skills, it’s better to use the seeking system!
