Force-free dog training: What is it, and is it right for my dog?

Force-free dog training, also known as positive reinforcement or reward-based training, has gained a lot of attention in the Bay Area as supposedly a more “humane” dog training approach. Unlike traditional methods that may use aversive tools or techniques (like prong collars, e-collars, or input from the leash at all), force-free training focuses on reinforcing desired behaviors with rewards, such as treats, toys, or praise. However, is it really more humane than balanced dog training methods? Is force-free training really “stress-free?” How do dogs learn what not to do, if we aren’t communicated to them behavior that we don’t want? Keep reading to learn about the pros and cons of force-free dog training, and get a better idea of whether or not it’s the best approach for your dog.

What is Force-Free Dog Training?

In force-free training, the primary goal is to create a learning environment that’s free from fear, pain, or discomfort for the dog. Trainers reward behaviors they want to encourage and ignore or redirect unwanted behaviors without punishment. Common methods include clicker training, treat rewards, and positive verbal reinforcement.

The Pros of Force-Free Dog Training

1. Can Help Build Confidence in an Anxious Dog

When a dog isn’t scared of making mistakes, it may feel more comfortable and confident to try new things. If a dog is so anxious that they are shut down and don’t want to move or do anything, using reward-based training (assuming the dog is motivated for food), can help teach the dog that trying new thing is rewarding and nothing to be afraid of. This is why I always start my dog training programs with reward-based training! Balanced training methods can be FUN, and are about creating clarity and confidence in dogs, not fear.

2. Effective at Teaching Behaviors

Numerous studies support positive reinforcement as a highly effective method for reinforcing behaviors. Dogs are motivated to repeat behaviors that are rewarded, which promotes faster learning and greater reliability in trained behaviors.

3. It May Be More Forgiving

When dog owners use training tools on their dogs without proper training, they can make their dogs anxious and fearful. Force-free training methods means owners wont be using most training tools poorly, which may reduce the risk of creating fearful associations. That being said, even flat collars can be used poorly and create stress and fear in your dog if not used appropriately.

The Cons of Force-Free Dog Training

1. Takes Time and Patience

Force-free training can require more time than balanced dog training methods, particularly when working with certain behavioral issues. Owners need to be consistent, observant, and willing to take very small steps forward over time. Because force-free training doesn’t allow owners to correct unwanted behavior, owners need to move very slowly with their dog so as to avoid their dog rehearsing unwanted behaviors.

This is especially important for aggressive and reactive behaviors, which can intensify with rehearsal. In addition, owners need to understand that in force-free dog training, ZERO forms of punishment or aversion are allowed—this means tugging on your dog lightly and scolding your dog for anything are off the table.

2. Force Free Dog Training Doesn’t Teach Dog Boundaries

There are times when a dog’s behavior might pose immediate risks to its safety or the safety of others, such as when a dog is acting aggressively, reactively, or showing excessive resource guarding. Force-free dog training does not allow owners to immediately address dangerous dog behaviors safely.

Owners should not feel resolved to live with dangerous dog behavior. I believe that dogs thrive and become more confident and secure when they understand boundaries and are clear about what behavior is ok and what behavior is not ok. Dogs also develop better bonds with their owners and families with balanced dog training methods, because they look to their owner for security and clarity, not as a human treat-dispenser.

3. Can Be Hard for Inexperienced Owners

Force-free training requires knowledge about timing and consistency when delivering rewards. New dog owners may find it challenging to identify the right moment to reinforce desired behaviors, potentially leading to confusion or unintended reinforcement of the wrong behavior.

4. Dogs May Become Too Food-Dependent

When treats are used excessively or without a clear plan for gradually phasing them out, dogs can become overly reliant on food rewards. We don’t want to constantly bribe our dogs. Additionally, there are many times and situations where a dog may not want a reward. If dogs don’t want a reward for doing a specific behavior, it can mean they end up rehearsing an unwanted behavior instead.

5. Force-Free Dog Training is NOT “Stress-Free”

I disagree that force-free training is “stress-free,” and believe that dogs live more stressed lives when they don’t receive the clear communication that comes with balanced training methods. Just like humans, dogs need to understand that their behavior has consequences—both positive and negative. This helps them understand the world around them and find security in their homes with their owners.

A group of dogs who have completed by “Fully Trained Dog” program, doing great in a group class. The dogs are happily engaged with their owners, while respectful of their owner’s instructions.

Is Force-Free Dog Training Right for You?

While force-free dog training can seem appealing, balanced dog training methods offer the best of both worlds—reward based training and relationship building, and clear communication and boundaries that can only come with using training tools. Force-free dog training may not produce fast or reliable results for every dog or situation, and dogs with aggressive behaviors or other behavioral problems can get worse if they are allowed to rehearse unwanted behaviors.

My dog training philosophy is rooted in using flexible methods and approaches to accommodate every dog, while also providing owners with reliable results and the tools to manage their dog’s behavior.

If you aren’t sure whether force-free training is right for you, or want to talk more about balanced dog training methods, please reach out for help!