Punishment Factor in Pet Training - Is it Worthwhile?

By Gary Pearson

Dog training can be a stressful time for both dog trainers and dogs, but it doesn't have to be. Pet training can be a rewarding event, if done with patience, love and structure. When dog training, there is much debate about punishment in pet training, whether it is proper or not. So, just how effective is punishment in pet training, and is it more detrimental to the dog's psychology than necessary? A strong positive reinforcement in pet training can be a great way to establish a rapport of trust with your and your dog. By using food treats and special toys, you can reinforce a desired dog behavior.

However, pet positive training also consists of retraining a dog's undesired behavior by introducing an unpleasant event after the undesired behavior, such as a tug on the collar to snap a dog out of his bad behavior. Disciplining a dog with pet negative training consists of retraining an undesired behavior by removing something that the dog enjoys as a means of discipline. Taking away a toy or not giving your dog a food treat can be considered pet negative training techniques. These techniques are more effective than pet positive training methods, as dogs tend to learn and retain the removal of something positive from their behavioral training. However, it is a fine line a pet owner walks with negative training, as it can be detrimental to pet health, at least, pet psychological health.

Is punishment worthwhile? As stated, dog trainers debate whether pet positive training and pet negative training is actually worthwhile. Sometimes punishment can actually counter your attempts. Dogs can negatively react to punishment, whether it is positive or negative punishment, by developing aggressive and anxiety ridden behaviors as a response. With the short life that punishments have with dogs, it only takes one momentary relapse to negate all the training you have done with your pooch. If you are going to choose a punishment training method, and this includes choke chains and shock collars, seek out professional dog trainers with experience in said training methods to ensure that you properly train your dog. Improperly using these methods can actually produce contradictory behaviors and damage a dog's psychology. To make sure that your dog is unharmed, mentally and physically, it is best to seek the advice of a professional trainer. Professional trainers have a better grasp on pet health and the consequences punishment can have on dog psychology. Training is meant to be a bonding event for you and your dog, and improper training techniques can cause suspicion and distrust in your dog. Make sure that your dog has complete trust in you and your dog training experience will go smoothly and successfully.

Many dog owners do not consider the effects of punishment on pet health or the dog psyche. But since dogs look to us for leadership and companionship, the trust that is built within that relationship can be scarred with improper techniques of training. Dog psychology is an important part of pet health, so be mindful of the effects your training techniques will have on your dog.

Gary Pearson is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about pet training visit Clever Pets for current articles and discussions.