Increases fear and anxiety in dogs

Punishment can cause fear, anxiety, and stress in dogs, temporarily suppressing behaviours without addressing underlying issues, potentially leading to further problems.

Breaks down trust between you and your dog

Punishment can weaken the bond and trust between you and your dog. Your dog can start associating you with negative experiences, causing a deterioration in your relationship.

It can lead to aggression

Physical punishments or severe corrections can result in your dog becoming understandably defensive or fearful, potentially leading them to use aggressive behaviour towards you or others.

What is considered punishment?

Correcting your dog with the lead

Applying force on the lead like tugging or yanking to discourage unwanted behaviour.

Shouting at your dog

Using harsh words or tones to express disapproval along with intimidating body language.

Punishing dog equipment

Using water sprays, pet correctors, shake cans, shock collars,  choke chain, slip leads, spray collars or any equipment that scares or causes discomfort for the dog to deter behaviour.

Physical force

Using hitting, slapping, tapping, pinching, grabbing or any physical positioning popor restraining to discourage behaviour.

How do you manage unwanted dog behaviour then?

Preempt the dogs behaviour in advance

Address issues proactively by understanding the dog’s body language and triggers. Intervene early with cues to redirect behaviour. Provide mental and physical stimulation in advance, avoid triggers, or using tools like leads to prevent rehearsal. Manage unwanted behaviour while teaching alternatives.

Teach an incompatible behaviour

This involves training dogs to perform actions that cannot happen at the same time as unwanted behaviours. For instance, if a dog jumps on guests, teaching them four paws on the floor or to relax on their bed offers an alternative.

Use a positive interrupter

Teach a positive interrupter like a “kiss” “kiss” sound or a word like “hey” or “easy,” redirecting attention from unwanted to desirable behaviour. Praise or reward the dog’s response to foster positive communication and cooperation.

Training

Work on strengthening foundational training like leave, drop, come, wait and others, using positive based methods, practice in various situations, environments and around different distractions.

Teach a finished signal

Always teach a signal to indicate to a your dog when an activity like rewards, play and fuss has ended. This ensures they are not left limbo, helping avoid frustration which can lead to unwanted behaviour.

It can be tempting to go for a quick fix in dog training however they generally have a punishing component and can have a detrimental impact on your dogs mood and emotional state long term. Get support from a trainer or behaviourist that promotes kind, mindful, fair and positive methods.

If you would like to chat with me or get support with your dog or puppy book in a call with me below.