Thread: Article

Originally Posted by ebf

I understand the "reinforce positive behavior" side, but what is the way to deal with negative behavior, like barking for instance. You can't go and click when the dog isn't barking, would just confuse them...

Positive reinforcement training does not work... at all for precisely the reason you have pointed out... the principle may get some people excited but let's be realistic... if the IRD started a program of sending thank you notes to people who pay their taxes and ignoring those that don't, then how many of us would do as expected??? Virtually none... same with dogs.

Dogs need to respect a consequence for poor behavior, but it does not need to be an electric shock or an ass kicking... smart trainers know there are far more effective ways of correction, that do not require electrifying a dog... electricity, even in low forms has a profound psychological effect on canines.... arse kickings rarely achieve anything with any dog... sound handling does. Praise for correct actions, condemnations for non requested actions and the ability to communicate with a dog in it's language... body language... is all that is need... no electricity, no hidings, no treats, no bullshit, good old fashioned stockmanship... to many are too impatient, to full of shit to understand that when you can TRULY communicate with a dog, all training becomes a joy.... I try to explain it, very few get it... but the few that do... i watch them and their dogs with pride... meanwhile I watch these treat training, positive reinforcement, hiding givers light up the dog brigade and shake my head, feel sorry for their dog and despair at the poor crap performance they get from their dog and the disdain I can clearly see in their dogs eyes. I enjoy the moments when my dogs look to me with trust and look me in the eye with respect and zero fear, not to piss all over me, but to ask in their way.... "What do want next Boss"?