Myths About Dog Training

Misinformation about dog training is widespread and often rooted in outdated theories. At Achieve Obedience Academy, LLC, our practices are guided by modern behavioral science and the ethical standards set by leading professional organizations, including the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB), American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), American Kennel Club (AKC), and the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP).

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Myth 1: Dogs Need to Be Dominated or Shown Who’s “Alpha”

The idea that dogs need to be dominated or that humans must act as an “alpha” is based on outdated interpretations of early wolf research conducted in the mid-20th century. Those studies observed unrelated wolves living together in captivity—an artificial and stressful environment that does not reflect natural social behavior. Later research on wild wolf families, as well as decades of domestic dog behavior studies, has since disproven these conclusions.

Modern behavioral science shows that dogs do not form rigid dominance hierarchies with humans, nor are they constantly seeking status or control. Instead, dogs learn and make choices based on reinforcement history, environment, emotional state, and clarity of communication.

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The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) has clearly stated that dominance theory is an inaccurate and outdated framework for understanding canine behavior. According to AVSAB, training methods rooted in dominance—such as intimidation, physical corrections, or forcing compliance—can increase fear, stress, anxiety, and aggression, while damaging trust between dogs and their handlers.

Leading professional organizations including the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), and American Kennel Club (AKC) support training approaches grounded in learning theory rather than social rank. These organizations emphasize that effective training is built on clear communication, consistency, and positive reinforcement, not control or coercion.

In practice, behaviors often labeled as “dominance” (pulling on leash, jumping, resource guarding, ignoring cues) are more accurately explained by unmet needs, confusion, lack of training, stress, or reinforcement of unwanted behaviors. Addressing these behaviors through ethical, science-based training leads to better outcomes without fear or force.

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At Achieve Obedience Academy, LLC, we reject dominance-based models in favor of modern, evidence-based methods that build confidence, improve communication, and strengthen the relationship between dogs and their handlers. 
 

AVSAB clearly states in their Position Statements that dominance theory is outdated and not supported in modern behavior modification. They emphasize that force or coercion based on dominance is not an effective basis for humane training:
🔗 AVSAB Position Statements: https://avsab.org/resources/position-statements/

APDT also aligns with AVSAB’s perspective and recommends trainers be familiar with the latest science rather than outdated dominance models:
🔗 APDT Dominance Position Statement: https://apdt.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023-06-07-Dominance-Position-Statement-for-Web.pdf

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Myth 2: Punishment Is the Most Effective Way to Change Behavior

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Punishment-heavy training methods may suppress behavior temporarily but do not teach dogs appropriate alternatives—and often come with serious risks.

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AVSAB’s humane training position explicitly recommends that only reward-based methods be used, as aversive methods can damage welfare and the human–animal bond:

🔗 AVSAB Humane Dog Training Position Statement: https://avsab.org/resources/position-statements/

APDT emphasizes the importance of humane training that prioritizes welfare and up-to-date science, including avoidance of intimidation and force in behavior modification:
🔗 APDT Position Statements (general reference): https://apdt.com/about/position-statements

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Myth 3: Electronic Collars Are Safe, Necessary, or a “Last Resort”

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Electronic collars and other aversive devices are often marketed as quick solutions, but leading veterinary behavior organizations caution against their use due to welfare concerns.

AVSAB’s statements note that aversive methods—including electronic collars—carry significant risks and there is no evidence they are more effective than reward-based training:

🔗 AVSAB Position Statements Page: https://avsab.org/resources/position-statements/

The Science-Based Alternative

CCPDT explicitly incorporates a Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA) standard in its training philosophy and certification expectations, encouraging the use of humane, science-based methods that rely on positive reinforcement and minimize force or fear:
🔗 CCPDT LIMA Policy (PDF): https://www.ccpdt.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/LIMA-Policy-2019.pdf

While organizations vary in their nuanced perspectives, the overall trend among veterinarians and professional trainers is toward ethical, science-based training that values welfare, learning efficiency, and strong handler–dog bonds. For example, AKC recognizes the science of positive reinforcement as an effective way to encourage desired behaviors and strengthen communication:
🔗 AKC on Positive Reinforcement Training: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/operant-conditioning-positive-reinforcement-dog-training/

The International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) provides its own statements on training philosophy and tools:
🔗 IACP Position Statements: https://iacpdogs.org/position-statements/

By following LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) principles, we choose methods that are:

• Humane and evidence-based

• Effective without fear or force

• Supportive of confidence, communication, and trust

 

Myth 4: “I Just Want a Pet—Why Should I Train?”

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Training isn’t about turning your dog into a competition athlete or expecting perfection. Training is about communication, safety, and quality of life—for both you and your dog.

Even family pets benefit greatly from training. Basic skills such as coming when called, walking politely on leash, settling calmly in the home, and responding to cues help dogs navigate the human world with confidence. Training reduces stress and frustration by giving dogs clear guidance and predictable expectations.

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Many of the behaviors people label as “problem behaviors”—such as chewing, digging, barking, jumping, pulling on leash, or counter surfing—are actually normal, instinctual dog behaviors.

The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) explains that:

“Normal canine behaviors, such as barking, chewing, digging, and jumping, are often mislabeled as problem behaviors when they are expressed in ways that are incompatible with the human household.”

These behaviors are not signs of stubbornness or disobedience; they are simply dogs responding to natural drives, unmet needs, or environmental opportunities.

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Rather than suppressing these behaviors through punishment, effective training focuses on shaping appropriate outlets. The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) emphasizes that behavior change is most successful when trainers address motivation, reinforcement, and environment:

“Dogs repeat behaviors that are reinforced, and effective training focuses on teaching alternative behaviors rather than suppressing unwanted ones.”

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Through enrichment, mental stimulation, and structured activities, dogs are given safe and appropriate ways to express natural instincts. The Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) supports this approach, noting that:

“Enrichment and positive reinforcement training improve behavior by meeting a dog’s physical, emotional, and cognitive needs.”

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Alongside enrichment, thoughtful management—such as supervision, environment setup, clear routines, and prevention of rehearsal—plays a critical role. AVSAB further explains that managing the environment helps prevent unwanted behaviors while new skills are being learned, reducing stress for both dogs and their families.

By combining training, enrichment, and management, we help pet dogs succeed in a human household—building confidence, reducing frustration, and creating a calmer, more harmonious life together.

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References

• American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB)
  Position Statement on Humane Dog Training
  https://avsab.org/resources/position-statements/

• Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
  LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) Framework & Learning Theory Resources
  https://www.ccpdt.org/dog-owners/canine-training/

• Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT)
  APDT Position Statements on Training, Enrichment, and Behavior
  https://apdt.com/about/position-statements/

 

Myth 5: “My Dog Should Just Obey Me Because I’m the Owner—I Shouldn’t Have to Use Food or Toys”

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Obedience is not something dogs inherently understand simply because we own them. Dogs do not come preprogrammed to respond to human expectations—they learn through experience, reinforcement, and clear communication.

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Modern behavioral science shows that dogs repeat behaviors that are rewarding and meaningful to them. The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) explains that training is most effective when desired behaviors are reinforced:

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“Positive reinforcement is a powerful and humane way to teach and maintain behavior by making it worthwhile for the dog to respond.”

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Using food, toys, or other rewards is not bribery—it is how learning happens. The Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) emphasizes that rewards are teaching tools:

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“Reinforcement is used to increase behaviors we want to see again. When used correctly, it builds reliability, confidence, and understanding.”

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Expecting obedience without reinforcement often leads to confusion, frustration, and breakdowns in communication. From the dog’s perspective, there is no clear reason to repeat a behavior if it has no value to them. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) cautions that relying on authority or punishment rather than reinforcement can harm learning and welfare:

“Training methods that depend on coercion or intimidation may suppress behavior but do not promote learning or trust.”

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As training progresses, rewards are not meant to last forever in the same form. Food and toys are gradually faded and replaced with real-life rewards such as freedom, access to activities, praise, and shared experiences. What remains is a dog who responds reliably because they understand the behavior, feel confident, and trust the relationship.

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At Achieve Obedience Academy, LLC, we teach handlers how to use reinforcement strategically—not endlessly—to create clear communication, willing cooperation, and a strong partnership built on trust rather than control.

References

• Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
  Positive Reinforcement & Learning Theory Resources
  https://www.ccpdt.org/dog-owners/canine-training/

• Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT)
  APDT Position Statements on Training and Reinforcement
  https://apdt.com/about/position-statements/

• American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB)
  Position Statement on Humane Dog Training
  https://avsab.org/resources/position-statements/

 

Myth 6: “I’ve Had Dogs All My Life—I’ve Never Needed a Trainer Before”

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Having experience with dogs is valuable—but experience alone doesn’t always equal up-to-date, effective training knowledge. Dog training, like many professional fields, has evolved significantly over the past several decades as our understanding of learning theory, animal welfare, and behavior science has advanced.

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Many people successfully lived with dogs in the past by managing behavior rather than actively training it. However, modern lifestyles place very different demands on dogs—urban environments, leash laws, busy households, public access expectations, and increased awareness of canine emotional health. These changes require clearer communication, intentional training, and proactive behavior support.

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The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) emphasizes that effective training relies on applied learning science, not just intuition or habit:

“Professional dog training is based on current behavioral science, humane methods, and continuing education—not tradition or anecdotal experience.”

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Similarly, the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) highlights the importance of evolving practices:

“Training methods should reflect current scientific understanding of how animals learn and how behavior is influenced by environment and reinforcement.”

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The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) also cautions against relying on outdated or inherited training practices, noting that:

“Many traditional training methods are rooted in misconceptions about animal behavior and can negatively impact welfare and the human–animal bond.”

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Working with a qualified trainer doesn’t mean you’ve failed or lack experience—it means you’re choosing to learn more effective, ethical, and efficient ways to communicate with your dog. Trainers provide structured guidance, objective observation, and evidence-based strategies that help prevent small challenges from becoming long-term problems.

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At Achieve Obedience Academy, LLC, we partner with experienced dog owners every day—helping them refine skills, update techniques, and better understand how dogs learn in today’s world. Training is not about replacing your experience; it’s about building on it with modern, science-based tools that support confidence, communication, and trust.

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References

• Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
  Canine Learning Theory & Professional Standards
  https://www.ccpdt.org/dog-owners/canine-training/

• Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT)
  Position Statements on Humane, Science-Based Training
  https://apdt.com/about/position-statements/

• American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB)
  Position Statement on Humane Dog Training
  https://avsab.org/resources/position-statements/

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Training Has Evolved

Then: Traditional Thinking

• Training based on dominance, correction, and compliance

• Reliance on physical punishment or intimidation

• Limited understanding of canine learning and emotional health

• Focus on suppressing unwanted behaviors

Now: Modern, Science-Based Training

• Grounded in learning theory and behavioral science

• Emphasis on positive reinforcement and clear communication

• Focus on emotional well-being, confidence, and trust

• Uses enrichment, management, and skill-building

• Supported by veterinary and professional organizations (CCPDT, AVSAB, AVMA, APDT)

The Result:
Dogs who learn more effectively, feel safer and more confident, and build stronger, cooperative relationships with their handlers—without fear or force.

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Myth: “You Can’t Teach an Old Dog New Tricks”

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The idea that dogs stop learning as they age is a myth. Dogs are capable of learning throughout their entire lives, regardless of age. Learning is a biological process driven by experience and reinforcement—not youth.

While puppies may learn certain skills more quickly, adult and senior dogs are fully capable of learning new behaviors and modifying existing ones. In fact, older dogs often benefit greatly from training because it provides mental stimulation, structure, and confidence.

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Behavior modification relies on consistency, kindness, patience, and clear communication. When training is humane and thoughtfully paced, dogs of any age can learn new skills and develop healthier behavior patterns. The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) emphasizes that learning theory applies universally:

“Behavior change is possible at any age when training is based on sound learning principles and appropriate reinforcement.”

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The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) also supports lifelong learning, noting that:

“Animals continue to learn throughout their lives, and age alone should never be considered a barrier to training or behavior modification.”

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Training older dogs is not about forcing change—it’s about working with who the dog is today. By adjusting expectations, breaking skills into manageable steps, and reinforcing success, we help dogs build confidence rather than frustration.

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At Achieve Obedience Academy, LLC, we design training plans that meet dogs where they are—physically, emotionally, and cognitively. With patience and compassion, meaningful change is possible at any stage of life.

 

References

• Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
  Learning Theory & Behavior Modification Resources
  https://www.ccpdt.org/dog-owners/canine-training/

• American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB)
  Position Statement on Humane Dog Training
  https://avsab.org/resources/position-statements/

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Myth: “My Dog Is Just a Puppy—I’ll Wait to Train Until They’re Older”

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Waiting to train a puppy is one of the most common—and costly—misconceptions in dog ownership. Puppies are learning from the moment they enter your home, whether that learning is intentional or not. Early training and socialization are not optional extras; they are foundational to lifelong behavior and emotional health.

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Puppies experience a critical socialization window, which occurs roughly between 3 and 14–16 weeks of age. During this period, puppies are especially receptive to new experiences, people, animals, sounds, surfaces, and environments. Experiences during this time shape how a dog perceives the world for the rest of their life.

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The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) strongly emphasizes the importance of early socialization, stating:

“The primary and most important time for puppy socialization is the first three months of life.”

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AVSAB further addresses concerns about vaccination status, noting that the risk of behavioral problems caused by inadequate socialization outweighs the risk of disease when puppies are socialized responsibly:

“Behavioral issues—not infectious diseases—are the number one cause of death in dogs under three years of age.”

 

This means puppies should be safely exposed to the world through controlled, positive experiences—not isolated at home until vaccinations are complete.

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Early training focuses on teaching puppies what to do, rather than waiting for unwanted behaviors to develop. It is far easier to build good habits—such as calm greetings, appropriate chewing, leash skills, and settling—than it is to undo fear, reactivity, or frustration once those behaviors are established.

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The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) emphasizes that early, reinforcement-based training helps prevent future behavior challenges by shaping desirable behaviors before problem patterns form.

Delaying training often means unintentionally reinforcing behaviors that later require significant behavior modification. By starting early, puppies gain confidence, learn effective coping skills, and develop positive associations with the world around them.

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At Achieve Obedience Academy, LLC, we focus on age-appropriate, humane puppy training that supports healthy development, builds confidence, and sets the foundation for a lifetime of success—because prevention is always kinder and more effective than correction.

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References

• American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB)
  AVSAB Position Statement on Puppy Socialization
  https://avsab.org/resources/position-statements/

• Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
  Puppy Training, Learning Theory & Early Behavior Development
  https://www.ccpdt.org/dog-owners/canine-training/

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Myth: “Socializing My Puppy Means Taking Them Everywhere and Letting Them Interact With Everyone and Every Dog”

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Socialization is not about overwhelming a puppy with constant exposure or forcing interactions. In fact, unstructured or forced socialization can do more harm than good.

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True socialization is the process of helping a puppy feel safe, confident, and neutral in the presence of new people, dogs, environments, sounds, and experiences. Simply bringing a puppy into busy situations without guidance, communication, or support can easily push them past their comfort level.

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When puppies are repeatedly placed in situations they cannot cope with, it can unintentionally:

• Build reactivity instead of confidence

• Create over-arousal and chaotic play behaviors

• Teach puppies that other dogs or people are overwhelming or unpredictable

• Damage trust in the handler as a source of safety

• Promote fear, avoidance, or defensive behaviors later in life

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The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) emphasizes that effective socialization must be positive, controlled, and age-appropriate, not forced or chaotic. Experiences should always allow the puppy to observe, disengage, and recover—rather than being pressured to interact.

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Learning science shows that repeated high-arousal or frightening experiences can sensitize a puppy’s nervous system, making them more reactive over time. Puppies who are encouraged to greet everyone and play intensely with every dog often struggle later with impulse control, frustration, and leash reactivity.

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Healthy socialization focuses on quality over quantity. Puppies should learn:

• How to calmly observe the world

• That not every dog or person is an invitation to interact

• How to regulate emotions and disengage

• That their handler provides guidance, safety, and support

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At Achieve Obedience Academy, LLC, we teach structured, thoughtful socialization that builds confidence, emotional resilience, and trust—helping puppies grow into calm, well-adjusted adult dogs who can navigate the world without fear or overexcitement.

 

Myth: “Tools Like Anti-Pull Harnesses, Citronella Collars, Vibration Collars, or Silent Whistles Aren’t Aversive Because They Don’t Cause Pain”

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A training tool does not need to cause pain to be aversive. In learning theory, a stimulus is considered aversive if the dog finds it unpleasant enough to change behavior in order to avoid it. What matters is not the handler’s intention, but the dog’s experience.

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According to behavioral science, reinforcement increases a behavior, while punishment decreases a behavior. Punishment occurs when a consequence makes a behavior less likely to happen again—regardless of whether that consequence involves pain, fear, startle, pressure, or discomfort.

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The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) explains that:

“Punishment is defined by its effect on behavior, not by the trainer’s intent. If a consequence reduces the likelihood of a behavior, it is punishment.”

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Importantly, the dog—not the handler—determines what is aversive. A sensation that seems mild or harmless to a human may still be stressful, confusing, or unpleasant to a dog. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) emphasizes that dogs experience aversive stimuli subjectively:

“What is aversive to an animal is defined by the animal’s response, not by human perception of the stimulus.”

 

Tools such as no-pull harnesses, citronella collars, vibration collars, and sound-based devices often appear effective because they temporarily suppress behavior. The dog alters their behavior not because they have learned what to do, but because they are attempting to avoid the discomfort, startle, or disruption created by the tool. This behavioral suppression is a defining feature of punishment-based learning.

 

AVSAB cautions that suppressing behavior does not address the underlying cause and can have unintended consequences:

“Punishment-based techniques can suppress behavior without resolving the underlying motivation and may increase fear, anxiety, or aggression.”

 

Similarly, CCPDT warns that reliance on aversive consequences often results in fragile training outcomes:

“Behaviors learned through avoidance tend to deteriorate when the aversive stimulus is removed and may damage trust between dog and handler.”

 

An additional risk of punishment-based tools is escalation. As dogs become acclimated or habituated to an aversive stimulus, the punishment often loses effectiveness, leading handlers to increase intensity, frequency, or duration to achieve the same result. Both CCPDT and AVSAB note that this cycle of escalation increases the risk of stress, fear, and behavioral fallout while further eroding trust and emotional safety. This pattern highlights why punishment-based methods are inherently unstable and why humane training frameworks prioritize teaching skills rather than relying on avoidance.

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In contrast, reinforcement-based training teaches dogs clear alternative behaviors by making those choices rewarding. This approach builds understanding, confidence, and reliability while preserving emotional well-being and the human–animal bond.

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At Achieve Obedience Academy, LLC, we follow LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) principles. We prioritize skill-building, enrichment, and management over tools that rely on discomfort—because lasting behavior change comes from learning, not avoidance.

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References

• Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
  Learning Theory, Reinforcement vs. Punishment, and LIMA Framework
  https://www.ccpdt.org/dog-owners/canine-training/
  https://www.ccpdt.org/certification/lima/

• American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB)
  Position Statement on Humane Dog Training
  https://avsab.org/resources/position-statements/

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Myth: “Crates Are Just Cages Where Dogs Are Locked Away”

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Crates are not punishment devices, and when used correctly, they are not places of confinement or isolation. A properly introduced crate functions much like a baby crib or playpen—a safe, comfortable space designed to protect the dog when active supervision is not possible.

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From a behavior and learning perspective, crates are a management tool, not a training shortcut. Management prevents unwanted behaviors from occurring in the first place, which is critical because behaviors that are practiced are behaviors that are reinforced. When a dog is allowed to repeatedly rehearse chewing furniture, counter surfing, or engaging in unsafe activities, those behaviors become self-reinforcing and increasingly difficult to change.

The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) identifies management as a foundational component of humane, effective behavior change, emphasizing that preventing rehearsal of problem behaviors is essential while new skills are being taught.

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The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) also supports the appropriate use of confinement for safety and management, noting that tools such as crates and pens are beneficial when introduced gradually, paired with enrichment, and used to protect both the animal and the environment—not as punishment or long-term containment.

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When introduced positively, many dogs come to view their crate as a predictable, calming retreat—a place to rest, decompress, and feel secure. Crates should always be appropriately sized, used for reasonable durations, and paired with physical and mental enrichment to meet the dog’s needs.

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Crates are not a replacement for training, exercise, or interaction. Instead, they are one of many tools used within a LIMA-based, humane training plan to support learning, safety, and emotional well-being.

At Achieve Obedience Academy, LLC, we teach families how to use crates thoughtfully and ethically—so dogs are set up for success while learning appropriate behaviors in the home.

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References

• Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
  Behavior Management, Learning Theory, and Humane Training Practices
  https://www.ccpdt.org/dog-owners/canine-training/

• American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB)
  Position Statement on Humane Dog Training
  https://avsab.org/resources/position-statements/

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Myth: “Treats Might Work for a Golden Retriever, but My Breed Needs a Firm Hand to Learn Who’s Boss”

 

All dogs—regardless of breed, size, strength, or reputation—learn through the same biological and behavioral processes. Learning theory does not change based on whether a dog is a Labrador, a German Shepherd, a Rottweiler, a Pit Bull–type dog, or any other breed often labeled as a “power breed.”

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Breeds that are commonly described as needing a “firmer approach” are not more dominant, stubborn, or resistant to learning. They respond to reinforcement, consequences, and environmental feedback exactly the same way as any other living creature. The difference is not how they learn—it is how the consequences of training methods affect their emotional safety and behavior.

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The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) explicitly warns against dominance-based and punishment-heavy approaches, stating:

“Punishment-based training methods can increase fear, anxiety, and aggression in dogs.”

AVSAB further notes that dogs trained with aversive techniques may appear compliant while actually experiencing elevated stress and suppressed warning signals—conditions that increase bite risk.

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The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) echoes this concern, explaining:

“Aversive training methods can compromise animal welfare and may result in unintended behavioral consequences, including increased fear and aggression.”

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When dogs with greater physical strength or guarding tendencies are trained using compulsion or intimidation, the fallout can be severe. Fear and confusion undermine trust, and suppressed communication removes early warning signs. This combination is a known contributor to serious bite incidents.

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The American Kennel Club (AKC) also rejects the idea that certain breeds require force, stating:

“Positive reinforcement is the most effective and humane way to train dogs.”

The AKC emphasizes that reward-based training improves reliability, confidence, and the dog–handler relationship across all breeds.

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Starting so-called “power breeds” with dominance-based training often leads to:

• Increased fear and anxiety

• Reduced trust and engagement

• Suppressed warning behaviors

• Higher risk of defensive aggression

• Greater likelihood of surrender or behavioral euthanasia

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In contrast, reinforcement-based training produces dogs who are emotionally stable, responsive, and safe to live with. Teaching impulse control, coping skills, and engagement through positive reinforcement is not permissive—it is effective, ethical, and protective, especially for dogs whose size or strength carries higher consequences if mishandled.

At Achieve Obedience Academy, LLC, we reject breed-based training myths. We train dogs using learning science, LIMA principles, and humane best practices—because strong dogs deserve education, not force.

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References & Position Statements

• American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB)
  Position Statement on Humane Dog Training
  https://avsab.org/resources/position-statements/

• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
  Welfare Implications of Training Methods
  https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/animal-welfare

• American Kennel Club (AKC)
  Training Basics & Positive Reinforcement
  https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/

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Myth: “My Dog Is a Picky Eater or Won’t Take Treats, So Reinforcement-Based Training Won’t Work”

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A dog refusing food does not mean reinforcement-based training is ineffective—it means the reinforcer needs to be adjusted, not the learning model abandoned. All dogs learn through reinforcement. The key is understanding what is reinforcing to that individual dog in that moment.

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In learning theory, reinforcers fall into two main categories:

• Primary reinforcers: Things that meet biological needs, such as food, play, movement, or access to safety and comfort

• Secondary reinforcers: Learned rewards, such as praise, toys, sniffing opportunities, or permission to engage with the environment

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The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) emphasizes that reinforcement is defined by the learner, stating:

“A reinforcer is any consequence that increases the likelihood of a behavior. What functions as a reinforcer is determined by the animal, not the trainer.”

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For dogs that do not readily take food, trainers can use alternate reinforcers such as toys, play, access to sniffing, movement, or social interaction. The Premack Principle—a well-established concept in behavioral science—explains that more probable or preferred behaviors can reinforce less probable behaviors. For example, asking for a sit before releasing a dog to sniff, run, greet, or play uses the environment itself as reinforcement.

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The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) supports this approach, noting:

“Reward-based training methods can use a wide variety of reinforcers, including food, toys, play, and access to desired resources.”

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Importantly, many dogs labeled as “picky eaters” are not inherently uninterested in food. Picky eating is often a learned behavior, influenced by free-feeding, inconsistent routines, excessive treats outside of training, or frequent food changes. From a behavioral perspective, this means food refusal is modifiable, not a fixed trait.

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The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recognizes feeding behavior as part of overall welfare and behavior, explaining that predictable routines and controlled access to resources support both learning and emotional stability. Building food motivation often involves:

• Establishing consistent meal times

• Removing free-feeding

• Using meals as enrichment or training opportunities

• Pairing food with engagement and movement

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When these routines change, many dogs rapidly develop increased interest, focus, and enthusiasm for food-based reinforcement.

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Reinforcement-based training is not limited to treats—it is a flexible, science-based system that adapts to the individual dog. When trainers understand motivation, reinforcement history, and environmental context, every dog can learn effectively without force or intimidation.

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At Achieve Obedience Academy, LLC, we assess motivation holistically and teach families how to build engagement using food, play, movement, and real-life rewards—because training should work with the dog, not against them.

 

References & Professional Statements

• Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
  Learning Theory and Reinforcement

“A reinforcer is defined by its effect on behavior.”
https://www.ccpdt.org/dog-owners/canine-training/

• American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB)
  Position Statement on Humane Dog Training

“Reward-based training methods are effective and reduce the risk of fear and aggression.”
https://avsab.org/resources/position-statements/

• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
  Animal Welfare and Behavior Guidance
  https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/animal-welfare

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Myth: “A Good Dog Always Plays Well With Other Dogs”

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Dog social skills exist on a spectrum, not a pass–fail test. Just like people, dogs are individuals with their own preferences, comfort levels, and boundaries. Some dogs enjoy frequent play with other dogs, some prefer a small circle of familiar companions, and others are happiest engaging with humans or the environment instead.

Not liking other dogs does not mean a dog is poorly trained, aggressive, or “broken.” In many cases, it reflects temperament, genetics, learning history, or past experiences. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) recognizes that healthy social behavior includes the ability to avoid or disengage, not just interact:

“Normal social behavior includes the ability to avoid interactions when desired.”

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A dog who chooses not to play with other dogs is not exhibiting a problem behavior—unless that behavior places the dog or others at risk. Attempting to “fix” a dog’s lack of interest in dog–dog interaction by forcing exposure or play can increase stress, fear, and reactivity, and may damage trust in the handler.

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The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) cautions against forcing social interactions and emphasizes respect for individual comfort levels:

“Forcing a dog into situations where they are uncomfortable can increase fear and anxiety and may lead to aggressive responses.”

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Behavior science makes it clear that consent and choice matter. Dogs should not be required to tolerate social situations they find overwhelming simply because humans believe those interactions are “fun” or “normal.” Forced play and unmanaged socialization are well-documented contributors to reactivity and defensive behavior.

 

Rather than measuring success by how well a dog interacts with other dogs, ethical training focuses on:

• Emotional safety and comfort

• Appropriate coping skills

• The ability to disengage and remain neutral

• Enrichment tailored to the individual dog

 

AVSAB further supports this individualized approach, stating:

“Training methods should focus on emotional wellness and minimizing fear and anxiety.”

Enrichment does not have to involve other dogs. Many dogs thrive with activities such as sniffing, exploring new environments, training games, problem-solving, play with humans, or structured solo enrichment. When enrichment aligns with a dog’s natural preferences, confidence and overall welfare improve.

 

At Achieve Obedience Academy, LLC, we respect canine individuality. We help families identify what makes their dog feel safe, fulfilled, and successful—rather than forcing dogs into social expectations that do not serve them.

References

• American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB)
  Position Statement on Humane Dog Training
  https://avsab.org/resources/position-statements/

• Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
  Canine Behavior, Learning Theory, and Welfare
  https://www.ccpdt.org/dog-owners/canine-training/

 

Myth: “Dogs Should Never Growl or Bite”

 

Growling is not bad behavior—it is communication. Dogs use growling, freezing, lip lifting, turning away, and other signals to express discomfort, fear, stress, or a need for space. These signals are an important part of how dogs prevent conflict.

 

The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) stresses that growling is a normal and valuable warning signal:

“Growling is a normal form of communication and a warning signal. Punishing growling removes an important safety

signal and increases the risk of a bite without warning.”

 

When growling is punished or suppressed, the underlying emotion does not disappear. Instead, the dog learns that communicating discomfort is unsafe. This often leads to sudden escalation, where the dog skips warning signals and goes straight to a bite. Trainers often describe this as “taking the batteries out of the smoke detector”—the danger still exists, but the warning system has been disabled.

 

The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) echoes this concern, stating:

“Punishing warning behaviors such as growling may result in a dog that bites without warning.”

 

Dogs should be allowed—and encouraged—to communicate their boundaries. Ethical training recognizes that communication is not a one-way street. It should flow from handler to dog and from dog to handler. When we listen to a dog’s signals and adjust the environment, distance, difficulty, or expectations, we reduce stress and prevent escalation.

 

Respecting a dog’s space and comfort level does not reinforce fear or aggression. Instead, it:

• Builds trust and predictability

• Teaches the dog that communication is safe

• Reduces the need for stronger defensive behaviors

• Increases emotional stability and confidence

 

AVSAB emphasizes that effective behavior modification focuses on emotional state, not just outward behavior:

“Training methods should address the underlying emotional motivation for behavior rather than suppressing warning signs.”

 

Biting is always a serious behavior that must be addressed—but prevention starts long before a bite occurs. Allowing dogs to communicate discomfort, responding appropriately, and adjusting training plans accordingly is one of the most effective ways to reduce bite risk and maintain safety.

 

At Achieve Obedience Academy, LLC, we teach clients how to recognize, respect, and respond to canine communication. By listening to dogs and honoring their signals, we strengthen trust, improve learning outcomes, and create safer relationships for everyone involved.

References

• American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB)
  Position Statement on Humane Dog Training
  https://avsab.org/resources/position-statements/

• Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
  Learning Theory, Punishment Risks, and Canine Communication
  https://www.ccpdt.org/dog-owners/canine-training/​

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Myth: “Dog training works the way reality TV and social media shows it”

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Reality:
Dog training on television and social media is designed for entertainment, not education. What viewers see is often heavily edited, staged, or compressed into dramatic “before and after” moments that leave out critical context: history, safety precautions, management plans, fallout behaviors, and the long-term welfare of the dog.

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Reality TV thrives on conflict and spectacle. Calm, ethical, evidence-based training does not make for viral clips—so warning signals, stress behaviors, failed attempts, and the months of incremental progress are rarely shown. This creates unrealistic expectations and encourages owners to copy techniques without the skill, timing, or understanding needed to apply them safely.

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Why professionals strongly disagree with “TV-style” training

Major professional organizations such as the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB), American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), and Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) have consistently raised concerns about training methods popularized by television personalities—particularly those rooted in dominance theory, physical corrections, intimidation, or flooding.

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Trainers like Cesar Millan are controversial within the professional community because their methods:

• Are based on outdated dominance and pack hierarchy models that have been repeatedly debunked in modern behavioral science

• Rely on suppression of behavior rather than addressing underlying emotions

• Increase the risk of fear, learned helplessness, and aggressive fallout

• Encourage untrained owners to attempt dangerous interventions without professional support

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AVSAB explicitly warns that confrontational and punishment-based techniques increase the likelihood of fear and aggression, especially when used by the general public without proper assessment or safeguards.

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The hidden danger of edited training content
 

What you don’t see in viral videos matters most:

• The dogs that shut down rather than “improve”

• The bites, near-misses, and escalating stress signals cut from footage

• The regression that occurs once cameras stop rolling

• The long-term behavioral fallout that appears weeks or months later

When behavior is suppressed through fear or intimidation, it may look successful in the moment—but the underlying emotional state remains unresolved, often resurfacing later with greater intensity.

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What ethical training actually looks like

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Professional organizations overwhelmingly support training approaches that:

• Are grounded in learning theory and behavioral science

• Prioritize safety, consent, and emotional welfare

• Address the why behind behavior, not just the outward symptom

• Emphasize education, skill-building, and long-term change

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Ethical training is rarely flashy. It is thoughtful, individualized, and often slower—but it produces reliable results without sacrificing trust or welfare.

 

Bottom line:
Dog training is not a performance. It’s a skill-based, science-driven process that requires education, experience, and accountability—not viral clips or reality TV dramatics. When choosing how to train your dog, trust peer-reviewed science and credentialed professionals over edited entertainment.