20/09/2025
As a second-generation dog trainer with three decades of experience, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the evolution of dog training methodologies over the last 40 years. It’s been a fascinating journey, marked by shifts in understanding canine behaviour and the human-animal bond.
In the early 80s, the training landscape was largely dominated by dominance-based methods, heavily influenced by trainers like John Fisher and the rather formidable Barbara Woodhouse.
The focus was on establishing the human as the "alpha" through assertive corrections—think of it as a rather stern game of musical chairs, where the dog always seemed to be left standing. Fast forward to today, and we see a dramatic shift towards positive reinforcement, thanks in part to influential figures like Karen Pryor, who popularised clicker training, and Ian Dunbar, who emphasised the importance of socialisation and reward-based training.
One of the most significant advancements over the last four decades is our understanding of dog psychology. In the 80s, we lacked the insights that modern research and behavioural studies provide today.
We now know that dogs are not just creatures to be trained but sentient beings with emotions and social needs. This understanding is crucial; it allows us to see the world from a dog’s perspective, fostering empathy and compassion in our training methods.
We’ve learned that a dog’s behaviour is often a reflection of their emotional state, and addressing the root causes of behaviour rather than merely the symptoms leads to more effective training.
People are increasingly recognising the benefits of having well trained dogs, not just for the sake of obedience, but for enhancing the quality of life for both dogs and their owners. A dog can lead to stress-free outings, fewer behavioural issues, calmness and affection, emotional support and so much more.
However, with this surge in interest, the dog training field has become somewhat of a double-edged sword.
The lack of regulation allows anyone with a weekend course certificate to call themselves a “dog behaviourist,” often without any real hands-on experience. Moreover, the market has become flooded with trainers offering low prices to attract clients, making it increasingly difficult for experienced trainers to charge what their expertise is worth. It’s becoming a race to the finish line where everyone is trying to outdo each other on price rather than quality.
This trend can dilute the standards of training, leading to a decline in overall dog behaviour. As a result, we’ve seen an uptick in behavioural issues, which can be largely attributed to owners feeling overwhelmed, judged, and often ill-equipped to manage their dogs’ needs.
So, let’s talk about the pressure dog owners face in today’s society. Gone are the days when a dog could run free in the fields, sniffing whatever it fancied.
Nowadays, there’s a societal expectation for dogs to behave impeccably in every situation. Owners fear being judged if their dog barks at a passing squirrel or has a moment of excitement in a crowded park.
It’s no wonder that dog owners often feel like they’re walking on eggshells, hoping their pup doesn’t throw a tantrum in the presence of other “perfect” pooches.
But here’s the kicker: there’s no such thing as a perfect dog. Dogs are individuals, each with their own quirks, urges, and personalities.
It’s essential they’re given the time and space to express their natural needs whether that's chasing a ball, rolling in the mud, or simply having a good old bark at a pigeon. Allowing dogs to be dogs is vital for their emotional well-being and ultimately leads to happier, more balanced pets.
On the flip side, dogs today are expected to tolerate a myriad of stimuli that their predecessors would have found bewildering loud noises, bustling crowds, and an ever-increasing number of rules, like “lead only” zones and enclosed dog paddocks. Picture a dog from the ’70s suddenly faced with a café full of people sipping lattes while dogs sit quietly at their feet, let’s just say it wouldn’t end well for the cappuccino!
In balancing the welfare of animals with human mental health, it’s essential to recognise that training should not just be about compliance but about fostering a harmonious relationship.
Dog training needs to find a middle ground between the force-free and balanced communities; it’s not wrong to guide and correct your dog in life. The key lies in doing so through empathy, compassion, and understanding.
The pressure on dogs to conform must be met with empathy from their owners; after all, they’re not just pets they’re part of the family.
So,
as we look ahead, it’s vital that we advocate for ethical training practices that prioritise the well-being of both dogs and their humans. Whether it’s through community training classes or responsible socialisation, the goal should always be to create a supportive environment where dogs can thrive and owners can feel confident.
After all, a happy dog leads to a happy owner, and who wouldn’t want to strut through the park with a well-mannered pup by their side? Let’s keep the conversation going, support one another, and ensure that our furry companions are as fulfilled as we are.
