Training your dog can be a rewarding experience, but there are many myths out there that can make it harder than it needs to be. It’s important to know what’s true and what’s just a myth to effectively train your furry friend. Understanding the facts behind common dog training myths can help you become a better dog owner.
In this article, you’ll discover the truth about 11 common dog training myths. These myths can sometimes lead to confusion and frustration. By debunking these myths, you can ensure your training methods are both effective and humane.
Table of Contents
- 1) Dogs Forget Experienced Trauma Instantly
- 2) Puppies Can’t Be Trained
- 3) Old Dogs Can’t Learn New Tricks
- 4) Dogs Only Respond To Treats
- 5) You Need To Be The Alpha
- 6) Training Is Only For Puppies
- 7) Some Breeds Can’t Be Trained
- 8) Dogs Understand English
- 9) One Training Method Works For All Dogs
- 10) Rescue Dogs Are Hard To Train
- 11) Crates Are Cruel
- Importance of Dispelling Dog Training Myths
- Modern Dog Training Techniques
1) Dogs Forget Experienced Trauma Instantly
Contrary to what some might think, dogs don’t forget trauma immediately. Dogs have memories, and traumatic experiences can stay with them.
They may show fear or anxiety when reminded of the traumatic event.
Understanding this can help you be more patient and supportive during their recovery.
2) Puppies Can’t Be Trained
Many people think you can’t train puppies. This is not true. Puppies can start learning as soon as they come home.
Early training helps them understand basic commands like “sit” and “stay.”
It’s easier to build good habits when they are young. You just need patience and consistency.
3) Old Dogs Can’t Learn New Tricks
You might have heard that old dogs can’t learn new tricks, but that’s not true. Older dogs are still capable of learning and adapting.
Your senior dog can pick up new behaviors with some patience and practice. Consistency and gentle training methods are key.
Keep sessions short and positive to keep your old buddy engaged.
4) Dogs Only Respond To Treats
Many people believe that dogs will only follow commands if you have a treat in hand.
While treats are a great tool to start training, they aren’t the only way. You can use praise, toys, or even a favorite game as rewards.
Dogs enjoy pleasing their owners. Over time, they will learn to respond to commands even without food rewards.
It’s important to fade treats gradually. This means you won’t always need to give a treat every time your dog listens. Instead, mix in other forms of praise or rewards.
Remember to be consistent and patient. Your dog’s improvement will come with time and practice.
5) You Need To Be The Alpha
You don’t need to be the alpha to train your dog. The idea that you have to dominate your dog comes from outdated research on wolves, not dogs.
Modern training methods focus on positive reinforcement. Your dog responds better to kindness and rewards, not fear or force.
Building a relationship based on trust and respect is key.
6) Training Is Only For Puppies
Training isn’t just for puppies. Even older dogs can learn new behaviors and tricks with the right approach. Age doesn’t limit a dog’s ability to learn.
Older dogs may need more time and patience, but they are equally capable of learning new commands and behaviors.
Dogs can continue learning throughout their lives.
7) Some Breeds Can’t Be Trained
Every dog breed can be trained. Some breeds may have different learning paces or methods that work best for them. With patience and consistency, you can train any dog, regardless of breed.
It’s true that some breeds are more stubborn or independent. That doesn’t mean they can’t learn. It just means you might need to adjust your training techniques.
8) Dogs Understand English
Dogs don’t actually understand English or any human language. They pick up on tones, body language, and repetitive sounds. For example, they might recognize the sound of “sit” because they associate it with the action.
When you talk to your dog, they rely on your tone and gestures. Happy tones and praise help them understand they did something right.
Using consistent words and actions is key. This helps them learn commands more effectively, even if they don’t really understand the words themselves.
9) One Training Method Works For All Dogs
Using a single method for every dog doesn’t always work. Each dog is unique and responds differently to various training styles.
Some dogs may react well to positive reinforcement, while others might need a different approach.
It’s important to find what works best for your dog’s personality and needs.
10) Rescue Dogs Are Hard To Train
Many people believe that rescue dogs are hard to train. This is not true.
The trainability of a dog depends on its personality and experiences, not whether it came from a shelter.
Rescue dogs can learn commands, tricks, and good behavior just like any other dog.
All they need is time, patience, and love.
11) Crates Are Cruel
A common myth is that crate training is cruel. Actually, crates can provide a safe and comfortable space for your dog if used correctly.
Crates give your dog a sense of security. Dogs are den animals, and a crate can mimic a den, offering them a place to relax and feel protected.
Crate training helps with housebreaking and prevents destructive behaviors when you’re not home. It ensures your dog stays safe and out of trouble.
Make sure the crate is the right size for your dog. It should be big enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Always use positive reinforcement to create a positive association with the crate. This can include treats, toys, and praise.
Never use the crate as a punishment. This can lead to fear and anxiety. Used properly, a crate can be a helpful tool for both you and your furry friend.
Importance of Dispelling Dog Training Myths
Believing in myths about dog training can hurt your dog’s behavior and the bond you share. Correcting these misunderstandings helps your dog learn better and strengthens your relationship.
Impact on Dog Behavior
Myths about dog training can lead to problems with your dog’s behavior. If you think you need to use punishment to train your dog, it can cause fear and aggression. Instead, using positive reinforcement, like treats and praise, helps your dog understand what you expect.
Thinking you should be the “alpha” or dominate your dog can also create stress and confusion. Dogs learn better in an environment where they feel safe and respected. Avoiding myths allows you to choose methods that help your dog feel secure, making training more effective and enjoyable.
Building Better Relationships
When you move past dog training myths, you can improve your relationship with your dog. Using kind, clear methods helps your dog trust and respect you. This can make your bond stronger and your dog more eager to learn.
Ignoring myths, like the idea that older dogs can’t learn new tricks, means you give your dog the best chance at success. It shows your dog that you understand and care about their needs. By focusing on your dog’s individual personality and strengths, you can make training a positive experience for both of you.
Modern Dog Training Techniques
Modern dog training techniques prioritize positive reinforcement and patience over dominance. The focus is on building trust and understanding between you and your dog.
Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement involves rewarding your dog for good behavior. This method uses treats, praise, or toys to encourage your dog to repeat the desired behavior. The key is to give the reward immediately after the behavior occurs, so your dog connects the action with the positive outcome.
Using positive reinforcement can help your dog learn new commands and tricks quickly. It’s also a great way to strengthen your bond. Remember to be consistent and patient. Over time, your dog will learn what behaviors are expected and will be motivated to perform them willingly.
Clicker Training Basics
Clicker training is a form of positive reinforcement. It uses a clicker – a small device that makes a clicking sound – to mark the exact moment your dog performs the desired behavior. Right after the click, you give your dog a treat.
To start clicker training, first, “charge” the clicker by clicking and then giving a treat several times so your dog associates the sound with a reward. Then, use the clicker during training sessions to mark good behavior. This precise method helps your dog understand exactly which action earned the reward. It can be especially useful for teaching complex tricks or behaviors.
My name is Danny Jackson and I’m the CEO and Chief Editor behind Petloverguy.com. After spending a decade working with vets and private clients as an animal behavioral and nutritional specialist I co-founded Pet Lover Guy to help other pet parents learn how to interact with, and make the most of the time that they spend with their adopted and rescued best pet friends.
Working with Ella, our chihuahua rescue, we seek to help all dog and cat lovers have the happiest life possible.
