Gentle Touch Dog Training

04/12/2025

What Many People STILL Misunderstand About Modern Dog Training: “Positive” Does NOT Mean Permissive or Lacking Boundaries

When novices or "balanced trainers" hear "positive reinforcement," some may picture treats flying everywhere, unruly dogs, and humans passively tolerating chaos.

But genuine positive, neuro-affirming dog training creates purposeful clarity and structure, through a strong foundation of empathy and respect for both the dogs and people we work with as professionals.

Genuine positive reinforcement, coupled with an understanding of your dog’s unique emotional needs, involves clear communication, consistent expectations, and thoughtful management. It’s not the militant “structure and respect” gained through aversive methods, but a compassionate framework that honors each dog’s individuality.

Imagine you’re preparing for guests, knowing your enthusiastic dog tends to jump. Instead of allowing chaos, or resorting to harsh corrections, a proactive trainer manages the environment: they calmly use a leash to prevent jumping (no leash popping necessary), and reward the dog generously for sitting politely. The result? A dog who learns that calmness, not hyperactivity, earns attention - meaning they will repeat that calm behavior in the future, instead of jumping.

Here’s the crucial distinction: Positive, neuro-affirming training doesn’t lack clarity and consistency; it thrives on these elements. It sets dogs up for success by BUILDING their confidence and trust, creating enthusiastic learners who are less prone to anxiety or aggression. THESE are the approaches backed consistently by behavior science.

When “correcting” behavior, positive training isn’t about threats or intimidation; it’s about clearly teaching alternatives through differential reinforcement. For instance, instead of scolding a dog for chewing furniture, you immediately redirect them to a rewarding chew toy that satisfies their natural urge in a way that’s acceptable for both of you. Boundaries remain firm yet compassionate, and they can always be communicated constructively and painlessly.

There’s no unwanted behavior that can’t be addressed humanely through appropriate management and reinforcement of desirable alternatives . Yes, even serious issues like aggression.

Rather than blaming dogs, we ensure their environment prevents unwanted outcomes and reinforce safe, positive behaviors consistently, while also directly addressing unmet needs and/or underlying causes.

For example, leash pulling is effectively addressed by thoughtfully managing training environments, making sure the dogs’s exercise and emotional needs are met, and consistently reinforcing behaviors like loose-leash walking, no metal collar leash jerks or shock collar corrections necessary.

This structured AND compassionate approach respects a dog’s natural instincts and emotions, channeling them positively rather than suppressing them. Love to dig? Provide a designated digging spot and reward your dog’s digging there. Passionate sniffers? Teach polite leash behavior while joyfully incorporating “sniff adventures” into your walks.

These methods ensure dogs aren’t frustrated or shut down, but actually guided and taught within clear, empowering boundaries.

Reputable organizations like the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) advocate these methods precisely because they’re effective, ethical, and sensitive to the emotional and neurodiverse needs of individual dogs. Evidence repeatedly demonstrates that dogs trained in this way are happier, more enthusiastic learners, forming deeper, more trusting bonds with their guardians.

Next time someone dismisses positive, neuro-affirming training as weak or permissive, confidently remind them: True strength in dog training comes not from dominance or fear but from understanding, compassion, and effective communication.

A few sources and interesting reading below - find more on all things dog training at zakgeorge.com 🙌

American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) Position Statement on Humane Dog Training
http://avsab.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/AVSAB-Humane-Dog-Training-Position-Statement-2021.pdf

The effects of using aversive training methods in dogs—A review (Ziv)
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1558787817300357

Survey of the use and outcome of confrontational and non-confrontational training methods in client-owned dogs showing undesired behaviors (Herron et al., 2009)
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0168159108003717

04/09/2025

No. Aversive Methods Aren’t Faster. They’re Just Faster at Causing More Problems.

Real breakthroughs in dog training happen in small, quiet moments. Every subtle shift like a dog choosing to look calmly at their guardian instead of reacting, or a brief pause before engaging impulsively, reflects genuine emotional and neurological growth.

Don’t think of these as just minor victories. They are critical milestones in growing a dog’s emotional resilience and building lasting behavioral transformation.

Modern, ethical dog training recognizes that true progress isn’t measured by quick suppression but by the dog’s growing ability to make better choices independently.

While harsh corrections might seem to deliver rapid results to the untrained eye, they actually slow progress by adding stress, confusion, or even aggressive responses.

Real efficiency lies in teaching dogs the skills and emotional coping mechanisms they need to confidently navigate their world.

Science consistently supports gentle, incremental training. We are learning that approaches rooted in patience and emotional safety (keeping dogs comfortably below their threshold) allow the brain to form new, healthier associations.

It involves a complex release of neurochemicals, including dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin, which foster calm, trust, and social bonding. And Dogs experiencing this supportive training environment exhibit lower stress, improved problem-solving abilities, and quicker recovery from setbacks.

Just as healthy eating and regular exercise deliver steady progress, “balanced” dog training methods (methods that include pain, fear, or intimidation, compromise emotional health and conflict with modern, ethical approaches) are the fad diets of behavior: flashy promises that undermine lasting results.

Modern, evidence based incremental training methods effectively address common behavior challenges, including leash reactivity, fearfulness, impulse control, and aggressive responses.

Each step, however small, actively reshapes a dog’s emotional landscape, methodically replacing fear or frustration with curiosity and trust.

Rather than merely teaching avoidance, these methods build genuine confidence, enabling dogs to handle stress more successfully in future situations.

Importantly, although these incremental steps are subtle, they are not slow. They’re foundational.

Addressing emotional states directly prevents the cascade of secondary issues, like anxiety or aggression, that’s often caused by suppressive tactics.

Neuro-affirming methods nurture the dog’s ability to make thoughtful decisions, resulting in dependable behaviors.

Ultimately, training rooted in emotional understanding and ethical practices does more than change behavior, it changes lives of people and their dogs.

Sources below and more at zakgeorge.com 👈

“Does training method matter? Evidence for the negative impact of aversive-based methods on companion dog welfare” doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0225023

“Survey of the use and outcome of confrontational and non-confrontational training methods in client-owned dogs showing undesired behaviors” https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2008.12.011

“Training methods and owner–dog interactions: Links with dog behaviour and learning ability” https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2011.03.007

“Effects of 2 training methods on stress-related behaviors of the dog (Canis familiaris) and on the dog–owner relationship” https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2013.11.004

“The effects of using aversive training methods in dogs—A review” https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2017.02.004

“The use of punishment and negative reinforcement in dog training”
Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) Policy Statement (2012) https://www.ava.com.au/policy-advocacy/policies/companion-animals-dog-behaviour/the-use-of-punishment-and-negative-reinforcement-in-dog-training/

“Effect of a standardized four-week desensitization and counter-conditioning training program on pre-existing veterinary fear in companion dogs” doi: 10.3390/ani9100767

“Behavioral rehabilitation of extremely fearful dogs: Report on the efficacy of a treatment protocol” https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105689

“Does It Matter Whether Dog Training Is Positive or Aversive?” Stanley Coren (2023) – Psychology Today: Canine Corner
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/canine-corner/202301/does-it-matter-whether-dog-training-is-positive-or-aversive

“Humane Dog Training Position Statement” American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (2021)https://avsab.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/AVSAB-Humane-Dog-Training-Position-Statement-2021.pdf

“Positive Vet Visit Position Statement” American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (2016)https://avsab.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Positive-Veterinary-Care-Position-Statement-download.pdf

“Dominance Position Statement” American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (2008)https://avsab.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Dominance_Position_Statement-download.pdf

04/08/2025

04/05/2025

Dogs Can Learn Hundreds of Words.
Maybe “Balanced” Trainers Should Learn Just One: Respect.

Your dog might be smarter than a toddler, and the latest science is finally catching up to what good trainers have always known: Dogs have much more intellectual depth than we’ve traditionally given them credit for.

After an extensive worldwide search, researchers in a 2023 study led by Dr. Claudia Fugazza at Eötvös Loránd University identified 41 “Gifted Word Learner” (GWL) dogs from around the globe - these dogs showed they are capable of rapidly learning multiple object names.

The dogs underwent rigorous testing under controlled conditions that confirmed they truly grasped specific toy names, without relying on subtle cues or signals from their guardians. The study’s findings revealed remarkable cognitive abilities: these dogs mastered new toy/object names after only a handful of exposures.

On average, these dogs knew about 29 toy names during initial testing, but many quickly expanded their vocabulary. Several surpassed 100 object names, and one dog even learned 125 different names.

Interestingly, these dogs generally learned words spontaneously through playful interactions, not structured training sessions. This implies a natural aptitude rather than simply exceptional training.

Although Border Collies comprised over half the group, the researchers also found this talent in breeds like Pomeranians, Shih Tzus, Pekingese, Corgis, Toy Poodles, and several mixed breeds.

While no single upbringing defined these dogs, shared traits included intense curiosity, a deep love for play, and active engagement with their human guardians.

Notably, professional dog training backgrounds among the guardians weren’t necessary, highlighting that everyday people can cultivate extraordinary abilities in their dogs.

Research like this continues to reshape our view of canine cognition, suggesting we’ve significantly underestimated dogs’ intellectual and communicative potential. (Of course, those who follow this page will not be too surprised by these findings!)

More importantly, these insights have practical implications for training and interacting with our pets:

If dogs naturally flourish in positive, playful environments, it questions outdated practices relying on aversive techniques like punishment or intimidation. Harsh methods could undermine their potential rather than enhance it.

Ultimately, this study encourages all dog guardians to rethink how we engage with our pets. Rather than limiting them to basic skills, we should foster their innate curiosity and intelligence through enjoyable, enriching interactions.

Although the authors of this study suggest this remarkable ability might only exist within a small subset of uniquely gifted dogs, I think it’s much more likely that most dogs have this untapped cognitive potential. Given the right environment, motivation, and communication style, many more dogs might demonstrate similarly impressive word-learning skills. Future research will hopefully explore how widespread this talent truly is.

But it seems, no matter how many studies, or real world examples demonstrate the profound depth, intelligence, and emotional capacity dogs possess, there will always be trainers clinging desperately to outdated methods, still claiming that we need to shock, yank, or intimidate our dogs into compliance or scoff at the idea of dogs granting consent while being taught.

It’s baffling how some in the professional dog training world continue to deny the clear and repeated evidence: dogs thrive, learn faster, and become better partners when we communicate with respect and understanding rather than pain and fear.

At some point, those committed to aversive methods must ask themselves: if dogs are capable of extraordinary cognitive feats, why deliberately undermine their potential with methods rooted in intimidation and punishment and control for control’s sake?

The future of dog-human communication is here, and it starts by acknowledging and embracing the extraordinary minds of dogs everywhere.

Reference: Dror, S., Miklósi, Á., Sommese, A., & Fugazza, C. (2023). “A citizen science model turns anecdotes into evidence by revealing similar characteristics among Gifted Word Learner dogs.” Scientific Reports, 13:21747. DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47864-5

04/04/2025

Dogs aren’t “misbehaving”. Their brains might be more like ours than you think… and the evidence continues to support a new approach to training.

Could your dog’s hyperactive behavior actually mirror ADHD in humans?

A comprehensive Finnish study surveyed over 11,000 pet dogs, and discovered striking parallels between canine behaviors and human ADHD symptoms, specifically hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention.

Nearly 1 in 5 dogs displayed pronounced inattentive behaviors, and about 15% exhibited significant hyperactivity and impulsivity, far beyond typical puppy energy.

Like humans, these traits were more common in younger dogs and males, with social isolation amplifying the symptoms.

Breed differences also emerged: Dogs historically bred for active roles (like terriers and working breeds like German Shepherds) showed higher tendencies toward hyperactivity and impulsivity, while companion breeds showed lower levels. Interestingly, breeds not specifically selected for intense tasks often scored higher in inattention, which is evidence that selective breeding can shape canine cognition significantly.

Still, it’s really important that we don’t oversimplify this. Every dog is an individual, and breed alone never tells the whole story.

Beyond genetics, the environment plays a substantial role. Dogs left alone frequently exhibited increased hyperactivity and attention issues, highlighting the importance of enrichment and social engagement.

Moreover, this research unveiled critical links between “ADHD-like” behaviors and anxiety-related issues in dogs, including obsessive-compulsive tendencies and aggression. Dogs displaying extreme impulsivity or inattention often showed coexisting anxiety or fear-based behaviors, so there could be a potential underlying neurobiological connection. This mirrors findings in human ADHD, where anxiety and compulsive behaviors often coexist.

Why is this significant? It underscores the critical need for compassionate, positive, neuroaffirming training methods rather than outdated, punitive approaches. Aversive techniques, such as leash corrections or shock collars, have been shown to heighten stress and exacerbate behavioral problems, making ADHD-like symptoms worse.

Conversely, structured, positive, enrichment-focused approaches help these dogs channel their energy constructively, significantly improving their focus and emotional stability.

It’s important to clarify that “ADHD-like” doesn’t mean your dog has human ADHD. It’s an analogy that helps us understand their behavior better without anthropomorphizing. Recognizing these behaviors allows us to better support dogs struggling with focus and impulsivity, and improve their quality of life through targeted, humane training.

This research invites us to shift our mindset: Dogs often labeled as “stubborn” or “unmanageable” might actually be neurologically predisposed to hyperactivity or distraction.

Rather than applying harsher discipline, we should lean into empathy, structure, and enriching activities. This evidence supports what many trainers and behaviorists already advocate: understanding and positive engagement, not punishment, bring out the best in our dogs.

Source: Sulkama, S., Puurunen, J., Salonen, M. et al. Canine hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention share similar demographic risk factors and behavioural comorbidities with human ADHD. Transl Psychiatry 11, 501 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41398-021-01626-x

"Training methods based on punishment compromise dog welfare, study finds." ScienceDaily, 17 December 2020. www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/12/201217095536.htm

Related: Salonen, M., Sulkama, S., Mikkola, S. et al. Prevalence, comorbidity, and breed differences in canine anxiety in 13,700 Finnish pet dogs. Sci Rep 10, 2962 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-59837-z

A couple of articles discussing the study referenced in this post:
https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/931717
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/10/211015184215.htm

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Try the Jump ’n’ Run Game – a fun, force-free way to manage your dog's prey drive. Keep your dog focused, connected, and safely satisfied!

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