Why We Don't Use Punishment
Why We Don't Use Punishment
We know some people grew up with training methods that involved choke chains, prong collars, shock collars, alpha rolls, or punishment when a dog did something wrong. Most people who used these methods did so because they didn't know there was a better way. There is.
The research is overwhelming. Multiple peer-reviewed studies have found that aversive training methods — those that use pain, fear, or intimidation to suppress behavior — cause measurable harm to dogs. Dogs trained with aversive methods show significantly higher levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), display more fear and anxiety behaviors, and are more likely to develop aggression. One study found that dogs from training programs using aversive methods were more "pessimistic" in their outlook, reflecting a state of chronic stress and reduced quality of life.
Aversive methods also don't actually teach your dog what you want them to do. They suppress behavior through fear — which means the moment the fear is removed, the behavior often returns. And a dog who is afraid of being corrected is too anxious to learn well in the first place.
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) has issued a clear position statement: reward-based training should be the first-line approach for all dog training and behavior modification. Punishment-based tools like prong collars, choke chains, and shock collars should not be used.
At GBF, we stand firmly behind this. There is no behavior problem that requires hurting or frightening your dog to fix.
Sources: The information on this page was informed by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB), the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (ACVB), the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), the ASPCA, PMC/NIH peer-reviewed research, the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), Fear Free Pets, Victoria Stilwell/VSPDT, Karen Pryor Clicker Training, Patricia McConnell Ph.D. CAAB, the Merck Veterinary Manual, VCA Animal Hospitals, published peer-reviewed research, and trusted veterinarians and behaviorists along our founder's 17-year journey as a dog mom.
The Good Boy Foundation is committed to providing valuable resources and education to empower pet parents in caring for their furry companions. However, it's important to note that the information provided on our website is intended for educational purposes only and should never replace the advice or treatment provided by a licensed veterinarian. While we strive to offer accurate and helpful guidance, we cannot be held responsible for any outcomes or consequences resulting from the application of this information. Pet parents are encouraged to consult with their veterinarian for personalized guidance and recommendations tailored to their pet's specific needs and circumstances.