Dog trainers are at odds over the best way to train pets, with a growing divide between those who use rewards and those who rely on physical discipline. Source: theguardian.com.
Two Camps: Rewards or Discipline?
There are two main groups in the dog training world. The first, called ‘positive’ trainers, use rewards such as treats, praise, or toys to encourage good behaviour.
The second group, known as ‘balanced’ trainers, believes in a broader range of techniques. This includes tools like prong collars, which apply pressure when a dog pulls on the leash.
These methods have sparked a public debate. Some positive trainers say the criticism of their approach is unfair. Others argue that overuse of treats can lead to overindulgence, which may affect a dog’s responsiveness.
Trainer Voices: Disagreement and Defensiveness
Brian Lee, a dog trainer, told the Wall Street Journal that positive training can feel excessive. He said: ‘It’s all treats, treats, treats, so help me God,’ adding that it’s like giving a teenager a BMW on his 16th birthday.
Victoria Stilwell, another trainer, responded by saying that the idea of treats spoiling dogs is a misconception. ‘I don’t see this getting resolved any time soon,’ she said, noting that overfeeding is the real issue.
Dr Ian Dunbar, an animal behaviourist, agrees that overuse of treats is a problem. Despite supporting the positive training method, he says it’s the most common flaw in modern training.
Online vs In-Person Training
Another point of contention is whether training should happen in person or online.
Dr Dunbar believes in-person training is essential. ‘You can’t resolve temperament issues over the phone,’ he told the Times. ‘It’s insane.’
Siobhan Dunn, who runs online courses, counters that in-person access is not always possible. She says many pet owners across the UK would never have been able to reach her otherwise.
Cost is a barrier. In-person sessions can cost up to £150 per hour. This makes training difficult for many families.
Is There a Ceasefire?
Brian Lee recently called for calm on Instagram. He wrote: ‘The criticising culture has been exhausted. It’s time to put down the ‘dog training approach’ pitchforks.’
His message did not go unchallenged. One trainer responded: ‘There is literally NOTHING in your bio that tells me you actually have an education in canine behaviour.’
Some suggest alternatives to food-based rewards. One idea is offering a trip to the theatre as a reward. This shows that rewards don’t have to be food-based.
Why This Matters
The debate reflects a broader trend in parenting and education. Just as there is a divide between ‘gentle’ and ‘structured’ parenting, so too is there a split in how dogs are trained.
While the conflict may seem minor, it touches on deeper issues about how we teach, reward, and manage behaviour in relationships with animals.
Unlike human parenting, dog training has no clear consensus. The lack of standardised guidelines means owners and trainers often rely on personal experience or online opinions.
Both sides agree on one thing: the training of dogs is complex and requires skill, patience, and understanding.
There is no sign of a ceasefire. Social media has amplified the divide, turning what could have been a professional discussion into a public feud.
Sources & further reading
Featured image: original publisher image. Via original publisher. Image source
