Effects Of Two Training Methods On The Behaviors Of Dogs
This exploratory study observed dogs and their guardians at dog-training schools in France. One school used “negative stimulus” techniques, such as pushing down the dog’s back while giving a “sit” command. The other used “positive reinforcement,” such as treat rewards. Dogs in the negative stimulus class showed more stress when receiving a command, and less visual interaction with their guardians than dogs in the “positive stimulus” class. The authors acknowledge the study was too small and the observations too brief for their findings to apply to all dogs.
[Abstract excerpted from original text.]
“Instrumental learning plays an important role in dog-human interactions. The recent demand for pet dog training has resulted in the development of various training methods. The present exploratory study aims to compare the effects of 2 training methods on both the behavioral welfare of the dog and the dog-owner relationship: the first method is based on positive reinforcement (appearance of an appetitive stimulus), whereas the second method is based on negative reinforcement (disappearance of an aversive stimulus). The study compared behaviors linked to signs of stress and attentive behaviors toward the owner in 2 dog training schools, which used different methods. Walking on-leash activity and obeying the “sit” command were studied. The results show that dogs from the school using a negative reinforcement-based method demonstrated lowered body postures and signals of stress, whereas dogs from the school using a positive reinforcement-based method showed increased attentiveness toward their owner. However, neither method affected avoidance behaviors. This exploratory study reveals the differential effects of the 2 training methods on dogs’ behaviors; it suggests that training methods based on positive reinforcement are less stressful and potentially better for their welfare.”