04/25/2026
Did you know? The propensity for dogs to develop defensive behaviors as seen in aversive training methods activates a physiological state that may interfere with a dog's ability to cognitively function.
Basically, aversive dog training engages the dog's defensive systems, that is, the fight, flight, or freeze responses. These responses are mediated by activation of the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis.
The immediate result is elevated arousal, increased heart rate, and the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and catecholamines.
In this physiological state, the dog’s brain prioritizes survival over learning.
Discover 13 negative effects of aversive dog training: https://dogdiscoveries.com/training/thirteen-negative-effects-of-aversive-dog-training/
