Effectiveness Isn't Enough: Lessons from Dog Training
 
This post was inspired by Dr Susan Friedman who wrote an article titled: WHAT’S WRONG WITH THIS PICTURE? EFFECTIVENESS IS NOT ENOUGH https://www.behaviorworks.org/files/articles/What's%20Wrong%20With%20this%20Picture-Parrot.pdf
 
When it comes to dog training, being effective is important, but it's not the whole picture. Just like in business where solely focusing on results can lead to unforeseen problems, dog training requires a comprehensive approach. Here's a few of my thoughts as to why effectiveness isn't enough and how we can learn from our four-legged friends to achieve better outcomes for them and us.
 



It's More Than Just Following Cues
 
Imagine a dog that can follow cues flawlessly: it sits, stays, and comes when called. At first glance, this seems like the pinnacle of effective training. But what if this dog is always on edge, eager to please but never truly relaxed or confident in its environment? True success in training is not just about what the dog can do but about how the dog feels too.
 
Training is not merely about getting the right response but about creating a confident, happy dog that feels comfortable, wants to work with you and secure in its surroundings.
 
Training with Empathy
 
In my years as a dog trainer, I've learned that empathy and understanding go hand in hand with effectiveness. A method that focuses solely on results might well employ harsh discipline or punishment, which can lead to a breakdown in trust and a negative relationship between dog and its guardian. On the other hand, a compassionate approach acknowledges the dog's needs and emotions, creating a training environment where the dog feels safe and supported.
 
Deliberately placing a dog into a situation where we know it will fail for the intention of “correcting it” lacks empathy and compassion. It’s akin to setting someone up for failure just to prove a point and then punishing them for failing. Instead, we should strive to set our dogs up for success by creating scenarios where they can learn and thrive without fear of retribution.
 
The Importance of Communication
 
Effective communication is the key to any successful relationship, and dog training is no exception. Dogs are incredibly perceptive animals, often reading our body language and emotions better than we might think. When we communicate clearly and consistently, we build a mutual understanding that goes beyond mere obedience.
 
Take the example of recall training. A dog that understands the joy and reward of coming back to its guardian when called is far more likely to respond with enthusiasm than one that fears punishment if it doesn't comply immediately. By focusing on positive reinforcement and clear communication, we create an environment where the dog wants to engage and participate, making the training not only effective but also enjoyable.
 
Clear cues and consistent signals help dogs learn more effectively, fostering a partnership where both dog and its guardian understand each other’s expectations.
 
Building Trust and Confidence
 
Trust is the cornerstone of any successful training programme. Dogs, like people, thrive when they feel secure and confident in their environment. This means recognising and addressing fears, anxieties, and behavioural issues with patience and care. A dog that trusts its guardian is more likely to respond positively to training and develop into a well-adjusted companion.
 
Consider the story of a gardener nurturing a plant. You can't rush the growth of a flower by pulling on its stem; you must provide water, sunlight, and care. The plant will grow strong and resilient over time with the right nurturing. Similarly, a dog needs time, trust, and guidance to flourish. Training methods that force compliance might yield quick results but will not help cultivate a happy, resilient and confident dog.
 
Building trust takes time and patience, but it results in a more profound and lasting connection with your dog. When a dog trusts its guardian, training becomes a cooperative effort that both parties enjoy.
 
Understanding Frustrations and Emotions
 
I know there will be times when you might feel frustrated or upset with your dog. We've all been there: moments when the training doesn't seem to stick or when our dogs just don't seem to get it. It's important to remember that these feelings are natural and part of the journey.
 
Dogs are not machines; they're living beings with emotions and quirks. They have their good days and bad days, just like us. During those challenging moments, try to take a step back and breathe. Understand that your dog is not trying to upset you; they might be confused, scared, or simply distracted. By approaching these situations with patience and empathy, you'll not only help your dog learn but also strengthen the bond you share.
 
Remember, training is a partnership. It's about growing and learning together, celebrating successes, and working through setbacks as a team. Your commitment and understanding make all the difference in your dog's world, and that's something truly special.
 
And don’t forget, dogs can get frustrated with us too! Just as we have expectations, they have their own needs and desires. Recognising this can help us approach training with the empathy and understanding necessary to create a positive experience for both parties.
 
Jean Donaldson’s Advice for Guardians
 
Jean Donaldson, a respected authority in dog training, offers valuable advice for guardians seeking a trainer. She suggests asking potential trainers the following questions to ensure they align with your values and expectations:
 
1. What exactly will happen to my dog when she gets it right? Understanding the rewards and reinforcements used by a trainer can give you insight into their methods and whether they match your own philosophy.
 
2. What exactly will happen to her when she gets it wrong? Don’t accept vague words like "correction." Ask for a detailed description of what this looks like in practice. This question is crucial in understanding how the trainer handles mistakes and ensures that their approach is humane and supportive.
 
3. Are there any less invasive alternatives to what you propose? Exploring less invasive methods ensures that the training process prioritises your dog's comfort and well-being. A good trainer should always be open to discussing alternative strategies that might suit your dog better.
 
These questions help guardians make informed decisions about who they trust with their dog's training. They encourage transparency and ensure that the trainer's methods align with a compassionate and effective approach.
 
Conclusion
 
Ultimately, the key to successful dog training lies in integrating effectiveness with empathy, understanding, and clear communication. While it's tempting to focus solely on achieving quick results, it's the journey that shapes our dogs into happy, well-adjusted companions.
 
Remember, training is not just about teaching our dogs to perform specific behaviours; it's about building a relationship based on trust, respect, and love. As we embrace this comprehensive approach, we find that true effectiveness is about more than results; it's about the well-being of both dog and guardian.
 
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By adopting this approach, we create a positive and enriching experience that leaves a lasting impact on our dogs and ourselves. As a trainer, my goal is to guide you in creating this harmonious relationship, where effectiveness is measured by more than obedience—it's measured by the bond you share with your beloved canine companion.
 
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About Nick Honor: As a dedicated dog trainer and behaviourist, I strive to promote a compassionate and caring approach to dog training. My goal is to help you understand your four legged friends better and create a joyful partnership that enriches both your lives. For more insights and guidance, feel free to reach out or visit our website, Puppy Stars Dog Training and Behaviour.