Have you ever wondered whether your pup responds to training better with praise or discipline? Science may have an answer!
A recent study explores how different dog training methods affect our furry companions, not just during sessions but long after the training sessions have ended. Researchers observed 92 dogs from seven training schools, split into three groups:
- Group Reward: Dogs trained with positive reinforcement (think treats, praise, and play).
- Group Mixed: Dogs trained with a blend of reward and harsh or punitive techniques.
- Group Aversive: Dogs trained primarily with punitive methods (like leash pops and other physical corrections).
Each dog’s first 15 minutes of training was recorded and analyzed for stress-related behaviors, including yawning, lip licking, panting and a tense body. These are subtle cues that speak volumes about a dog’s emotional state. They also collected saliva samples before and after training to measure cortisol—a hormone linked to stress. Dogs in the Group Aversive had significantly higher cortisol levels after training than those in Group Reward. Dogs in Group Mixed showed fewer stress behaviors than those in Group Aversive, but more than Group Reward.
The study emphasized that aversive methods didn’t just cause physical discomfort—they led to emotional distress. Dogs trained with these techniques were more likely to interpret future ambiguous situations through a pessimistic lens, suggesting that the aversive training had a negative long-term impact on their mental well-being.
So, what is the key takeaway?
Whether you’re raising a rambunctious retriever or a shy shepherd, kindness isn’t just humane—it’s scientifically proven to be effective. For more information on the benefit of positive reinforcement, the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) endorses a training approach called LIMA or “Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive”. LIMA describes the method trainers use who are educated and skilled in using a set of humane and effective tactics to achieve training goals. Be sure to ask your dog trainer about their approach to training to see if LIMA is part of their approach.
If you want a happy, confident pup, reward-based training is the way to go. Positive reinforcement builds trust, reduces stress, and helps your dog see the world as a place full of belly rubs and dog biscuits—not uncertainty and fear.
References:
Vieira de Castro, A. C., Fuchs, D., Morello, G. M., Pastur, S., de Sousa, L., & Olsson, I. A. S. (2020). Does training method matter? Evidence for the negative impact of aversive-based methods on companion dog welfare. PloS One, 15(12), e0225023–e0225023. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0225023
CCPDT statement on LIMA: LIMA-Policy-2019.pdf
Naomi Soffa is a certified Veterinary Assistant as well as a University of Washington-certified Animal Behaviorist. She is a longtime volunteer at several animal shelters and rescue organizations around the San Francisco Bay Area. Naomi is also the proud mom of a rescue pet and avid animal lover.
