As we learn more about dogs, recommendations to use reward-based methods to train them are strengthened.

Modern models of animal welfare emphasize the need to provide positive experiences for your dog.

A big cultural shift to see dogs as family members also influences how we feel about training them.

The conversation about dog training methods feels like it’s been going on for a long time. It’s an important one to keep having because of the benefits to dogs and their humans when reward-based methods are used, and the risks if they’re not. One of the things that has changed over the years is that the list of reasons to recommend reward-based methods has gotten longer. Changing cultural attitudes towards pets also play a role. Below are some of the factors that explain why training your dog with rewards—such as food treats or play—is the way to go.

Reward-based dog training methods are effective

Reward-based methods work, which means there is no need to use aversive methods like leash jerks and prong collars. Several studies have found that dogs trained with reward-based methods are more obedient than those trained with aversives (e.g., Rooney & Cowan, 2011). One reason could be that stress from the use of aversives makes it harder for dogs to learn. Meanwhile, aversive methods have risks that include fear, anxiety, stress, and a worse relationship with their guardian (Casey et al., 2021; Vieira de Castro et al., 2019; Ziv, 2017). As anyone with a fearful or reactive dog knows, having a dog with behavior issues can be difficult and expensive; there is simply no point in using methods that risk making such behavior issues worse.

In the past, some people would make an argument—now known to be out-dated—that there were cases in which aversive methods might be used as a “last resort.” However, any time aversive methods are used, there are those risks to the dog’s welfare. And aversives are never needed as a “last........

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