by Tom Geoffroy

Created on: February 15, 2010   Last Updated: February 16, 2010

A common mistake pet owner’s make is they treat their animals like humans. Pets are animals and must be understood as such. This article will focus on the training of dogs, man’s best friend. The debate goes on about which method of training is most effective; positive reinforcement or correction based training. Below is a case for correction based training. Read further then you decide.

Understanding the Pack Mentality:

In nature and in the wild, dogs are pack type animals. This means they live in groups called packs. In a dog pack there is an order to their social system. There is only one "top dog" or alpha dog. All others are in various places in the pecking order. The alpha male does not get the respect and obedience of the others by the way he gives out positive reinforcement. He is respected and feared by others in the pack because he has forcefully taken his position and holds it by correcting others. The important rule to remember is dogs must see their human owners as the "Alpha or Top Dog." Dogs by nature will try to take control and be in charge. When this happens they need correction. You cannot reason with a dog. While you can get a dog to do some tricks by giving them a treat after performance, you cannot stop biting, scratching, barking, or jumping on others the same way. This behavior is best corrected immediately.

Establish Yourself as the Alpha Male:

It does not matter what your sex is, you must assume the role of the alpha male in the dog’s eyes. When you interact with your dog, get down on all fours and position yourself over your dog. Dogs want to be on top. The top position is the superior position. You must assume that top position. Many people will get on the floor with their dog and the dog will try to climb on top of them. This is not just play for the dog. The dog is trying to dominate. You cannot let this happen. When this happens, make a low growling noise and reposition yourself over the dog again. Try to get the dog to lie on its back. This causes the dog to submit to you and view you as the one in charge. When you correct your dog in the future, the dog will give you respect and submit to your commands.

Keep It Simple:

When training your dog keep it simple. It is best to use short one word commands. If you want your dog to come to you then say "come". If you want the dog to lie on the floor or not jump on you or others, say "down." Dogs do not understand sentences. They will get confused and you will get frustrated. One word commands in a firm voice will bring good results. Giving affection or a treat is not a bad thing here but the dog must obey even if you don’t have a treat.

Be Consistent:

To properly train a dog you must out last the dog by doing it the same way all the time every time. A mother dog will not allow her puppies to get out of control without a growl or a snap. You must be consistent. Continue to reinforce your role as alpha. Keep your commands

simple and use them the same way every time.

Love Your Dog:

Dogs are social animals and want to be around others. When interacting with your dog it is important to show love and affection to the dog. Petting your dog, playing with your dog and giving your dog special treats are all good things. Even during these times of play and socializing you need to maintain your alpha position. Dogs feel secure when they know who is in charge. They will love you and want to please you because you are the head of the pack.

Conclusion:

When training a dog it is always best to mimic nature. Correction is the natural way dogs train each other. While you may see some results using positive reinforcement, that is not natural to the dog. Treat a dog like a dog and he will be your best friend.

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