Training Dogs And Training Humans: Symbolic Interaction And Dog Training
The way we train our dogs symbolizes our perceptions of relationships between humans and non-human animals. Based on the theory of symbolic interaction, this study examines the human-dog relationship by an analysis of reward-based training versus a traditional approach to training.
The traditional dominance-based approach to dog training utilizes a “human-centric” method that establishes the dominant position of the human over the dog. The reward-based method is “dog-centric,” which promotes a balanced relationship between human and dog desires and needs. Both teach the dog proper behavior and about their role in the family, though each method reflects a different perception of the dog-human relationship.