As I am sure you have found out, there are lots of ways to train your puppy or dog. At this time how you train your dog can be controversial too. Sometimes getting dirty looks from other dog owners or being educated about what you should be doing instead.
A common joke in the dog training world goes like this. What's the only thing two dog trainers can agree on?
That the third dog trainer is wrong!
Now, as funny as that is, it is sad that we miss the fact that we love animals and want them in our lives. Dog training is now more about who do you want to be as a person because truthfully, all methods work to varying degrees.
Continue below to dive into the distinctions!
Below are a few of my recommendations to start dog training. If you want the complete list, press I'm In!!
For clarity these colors are like notes on a instrument, they can be combined to form chords and that is when they work best.
Based on Don Beck's Book "Spiral Dynamics"
R+ (positive reinforcement)
R- (negative reinforcement)
P+ (positive punishment)
P- (negative punishment)
Imagine that people are like different colored candies in a jar. Some are like red candies, which like to be in charge, and some are like blue candies, which care about following rules. Other colors, like green, yellow, and orange, represent different ways of thinking and acting. When we train dogs, keep in mind, that all of the candies can use all of the methods below. The methods may be used by any color candy, but why they are using is different for each.
Some focus only on Positive Reinforcement, meaning rewards to teach their dogs, like giving them treats, play, or praise when they do something right. This might align with the blue or green level of development, which emphasizes cooperation, empathy, and community building.
Others use Negative Reinforcement, which means taking something away that the dog doesn't like when it does something right, like stopping a loud noise or taking away leash pressure. This might align with the purple or red level, which emphasizes achievement, competition, and results.
Positive Punishment means adding something to the dog's environment that the dog doesn't like when it does something wrong, like yelling or using a spray bottle. This could align with the red or blue level, which emphasizes order, discipline, and obedience.
Finally, Negative Punishment means taking something away that the dog likes when it does something wrong, like ending playtime or taking away a toy. This could align with the orange or yellow level, which emphasizes flexibility, self-awareness, and a focus on systemic solutions.
Beige: Since this level is focused on basic survival needs, there isn't really a concept of negative reinforcement in the traditional sense.
Purple: At this level, negative reinforcement might take the form of shaming or ostracizing someone from the tribe, by removing the social acceptance or approval that they desire, until they conform to the group's cultural norms or traditions.
Red: Negative reinforcement at this level could take the form of intimidating or using physical punishment to control others, or taking away something that someone wants, until they comply with demands or expectations.
Blue: At this level, negative reinforcement might take the form of withholding religious privileges or services, by denying access to a particular religious community or ceremony, until the individual complies with the doctrine or rules.
Orange: Negative reinforcement at this level might be in the form of withholding rewards or benefits, such as bonuses or promotions, until certain goals or targets are met.
Green: At this level, negative reinforcement might be in the form of social exclusion or disapproval, by withdrawing acceptance or approval from the individual, until they conform to the group's values or beliefs.
Yellow: Negative reinforcement at this level might be in the form of missed opportunities or loss of respect from others, by withholding desirable outcomes until the individual adopts a systemic or holistic approach to problem-solving, or considers the long-term implications of their actions.
I mostly train new puppy owners because they are motivated and want to put in the time. But I believe that at any age, any breed, and any animal can learn with positive reinforcement and a basic understanding of animal psychology.
I learn from Susan Garrett and focus on
3 pillars in the 4 week program.
1) Coming When Called
2) Crate And Place
3) Walking On Leash
Through regular training sessions, you not only improve your dog's physical health and well-being but also provide them with valuable mental stimulation. By being focused in your training, your dog develops sensory awareness and self-control, which is essential when dealing with distractions. This creates a stronger bond between you and your dog, leading to a healthier and thoughtful dog.
By investing in your dog's training, you are not only improving their obedience, but also their thoughtfulness. Training requires effort and repetition, but the payoff is worth it as your dog becomes a trusted companion who knows and follows the rules. By creating a shared connection with clear boundaries, you and your dog will have a stronger bond and a more reliable partnership. So step up towards a better relationship with your furry friend.
With training, you and your dog can build a stronger bond through improved communication. By better understanding each other, you can creatively and persuasively communicate your expectations, leading to a more reliable and confident pup. Through joyful repetitions and clear results, your dog can become more focused and attentive, ultimately deepening your connection and understanding.
After helping hundreds of dog owners with new puppies I have learned that puppies are energetic, curious, mischievous and the breed doesn't matter! Australian shepherds, basset hounds, German shepherds, dachshunds, Pomeranians, And it got me thinking.
A master checklist including what I would do in the first 30 days with a puppy would be very helpful.