28/07/2025
For generations, we've been told that dogs are both our loyal companions and at the same time, creatures to be controlled—caught in a confusing narrative that casts them as best friends and, at times, adversaries in a struggle for “dominance”. But in truth, modern dog training is a relatively recent development—barely a century old—and for much of that time, many widely accepted methods were rooted in coercion, force, and punishment.
Unfortunately, dogs are often incredibly forgiving. You can use harsh techniques in the name of training, and some dogs will still seek connection, affection, and reassurance from their humans. That willingness to reconnect often makes it seem like those methods “work.” But just because a dog complies or comes back for attention doesn’t mean the training was kind, effective, or free of emotional cost.
This may be one reason why the training industry has been slow to evolve. Thankfully now, with a growing understanding of canine cognition and emotional well-being, we know there is a better way—one grounded in trust, respect, and science-based, force-free methods.
It’s time to move beyond outdated ideas and build relationships with our dogs based on mutual understanding, not control.
