"Take nothing on its looks; take everything on evidence. There's no better rule.”
- Charles Dickens
The Defra Study & Research Project Final Report
University of Lincoln, 2011 Studies to assess the effect of pet training aids, specifically remote static pulse systems, on the welfare of domestic dogs. Study concludes dogs treated with electric shocks suffered negative behaviourial & physiological changes while non shocked dogs in the study did not. Full Study Here
Efficacy of Dog Training With and Without Remote Electronic Collars vs. a Focus on Positive Reinforcement
Lucy China, Daniel S. Mills and Jonathan J. Cooper, Frontiers in Veterinary Science, Animal Behaviour, Cognition and Welfare Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom, July 22, 2020
excerpt... Our results demonstrate through direct evidence from real life situations, that the reward-focused training was, indeed, more efficient than methods which included potentially aversive stimuli such as electric stimuli or excessive lead pressure. Whilst our results may reflect general differences in training style of the trainer groups involved in the study rather than use of E-collar per se, we would argue that because the trainers who used E-collars were put forward by industry representatives as exemplars of best practice; their data (at least in relation to E-collar use) should be taken to represent a best case scenario for professional E-collar training. It is likely that less experienced trainers and owners would be less skilled and thus less effective in their use of the device Study Here
WHY ELECTRIC SHOCK IS NOT BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION
Journal of Veterinary Behavior Vol3, Issue 4, P171-175 (2007) Editoriall
by Karen L. Overall, Philadelphia, PA
excerpt...These conclusions give lie to the assertions that "taps" are "imperceptible" and "tickle" human beings (Goldberg, online), and that when fitted with electronic collars people are surprised that they feel so little. In short, if the 1/1000 of a second "tap" (no information on how such data were acquired or validated) only generates a reaction so subtle that a dog might only look at you or flick his ear (Goldberg, online), why are we not using a clicker or a voice to get that response? If the "stimulus" is just to get attention (Courtney, 2005; , 2004, online; Hassen, n.d.), this becomes all about timing and getting the dog's attention. Do we really need an electric collar or shock to do that? If so, we have likely overridden many of the dog's normal responses. In such cases the obvious conclusion is that these dogs would have responded and will respond to clear signaling and humane training designed to provide them with a clear, contextual set of instructions... Full Editorial Here
Electronic training devices: Discussion on the pros and cons of their use in dogs as a basis for the position statement of the European Society of Veterinary Clinical Ethology
Sylvia Masson et al. - Journal of Veterinary Behavior, Volume 25 June 2018
Abstract
In recent years, the affirmation of a greater ethical sense and research generating a better knowledge of the mechanisms of animal learning, evidence of the existence of an animal mind, and studies on the dog-human attachment bond have led to changes in the dog-human relationship. These changes have caused a notable improvement in dog training techniques. Increased emphasis on dog welfare, overall, led to questioning of many training techniques and tools that used aversive means. Recent research on the use of aversive training devices has been performed and, on this basis, it has been possible to create guidelines to inform the public about utility and the possible detriments related to the use of these devices as a tool in dog training. The European Society of Clinical Animal Ethology has released a public position statement based on the current scientific information available on e-collars, punitive training techniques, and canine welfare. This study elaborates and discusses the arguments “pro and contra the use of e-collars and aversive training methods” leading to the statement in more detail. As a conclusion, European Society of Clinical Animal Ethology strongly opposes the use of e-collars in dog training and urges all European countries to take an interest in and position on this welfare matter.
Full Article Here
Barriers to the adoption of humane dog training methods
Zazie Todd, Companion Animal Psychology, Journal of Veterinary Behavior, June 2018 Vol. 25
Abstract
The use of aversive dog training methods is associated with risks to animal welfare, yet most dog owners continue to use positive punishment and negative reinforcement at least some of the time. This study reviews the barriers to the adoption of humane dog training methods by the general public. Lack of knowledge of the welfare risks, the poor quality of much information available to dog owners (should they seek it out), lack of regulation of dog trainers, and theoretical and practical knowledge of dog training will all affect people's choice of method. The differing positions of animal behavior and veterinary organizations and dog trainers may contribute to the idea that there is a lack of consensus on appropriate methods. The reasoned action approach, which is one of the most extensively tested models in health promotion and psychology, is a promising way of understanding people's intentions and likelihood of using humane dog training methods. Suggestions for future research include developing an understanding of how perceived social norms link to dog training behavior and the best ways to teach humane dog training methods.
Full Review Here
The Welfare Consequences and Efficacy of Training Pet Dogs with Remote Electronic Training Collars in Comparison to Reward Based Training
J. J. Cooper, N. Cracknell, J. Hardiman, H. Wright, D. Mills, PLOS ONE 9(9), October 2014
These findings suggest that there is no consistent benefit to be gained from e-collar training but greater welfare concerns compared with positive reward based training. Study Here
start of pageA REVIEW OF RECENT EVIDENCE IN RELATION TO THE WELFARE IMPLICATIONS FOR CATS AND DOGS ARISING FROM THE USE OF ELECTRONIC COLLARS
Ruth Lysons, MA MSc VetMB MRCVS, Nick Coulson, MA MBA PhD VetMB MRCVS 16 November 2015
...Dr Lysons concluded …" that the animal welfare cost is likely to exceed the benefits from use of electronic collars as training devices, since they may cause pain, effective alternatives exist, and the scope for misuse or abuse is too great."... Full Review Here
start of pageCONSIDERATIONS FOR SHOCK AND 'TRAINING' COLLARS: CONCERNS FROM AND FOR THE WORKING DOG COMMUNITY
Karen Overall, Journal of Veterinary Behavior 2007
Excerpt... "Absolutely, without exception, I oppose, will not recommend, and generally spend large amounts of time telling people why I oppose the use of shock collars, prong collars, choke collars, and any other type of device that is rooted in an adversarial, confrontational interaction with the dog..." Full editorial here
start of pageSTUDIES TO ASSESS THE EFFECT OF PET TRAINING AIDS, SPECIFICALLY REMOTE STATIC PULSE SYSTEMS ON THE WELFARE OF DOMESTIC DOGS; FIELD STUDY OF DOGS IN TRAINING
UK Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs
Project Study Final Report
"The project had a single aim, namely to assess the impact of use of remote static pulse electric training aids (e- collars) during the training of dogs in comparison to dogs referred for similar behavioural problems but without e- collar training.”
start of pageTRAINING DOGS WITH HELP OF THE SHOCK COLLAR: SHORT AND LONG TERM BEHAVIOURAL EFFECTS
Matthijs B.H. Schilder a,b,∗, Joanne A.M. van der Borg a
Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Department of Ethology and Socio-Ecology, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands. October 23, 2003
Conclusions and recommendations
We concluded that shocks received during training are not only unpleasant but also painful and frightening. Furthermore, we found that shocked dogs are more stressful on the training grounds than controls, but also in a park. This implies, that whenever the handler is around, the dog seems to expect an aversive event to occur. A second unwanted association might be that the dogs have learned to associate a specific command with getting a shock. Apart from the acute pain and fear, these expectations may influence the dog’s well being in the long term in a negative way. To counter misuse of the shock collar, it is proposed to ban its use for “sports”, but save it for therapeutic applications, such as for suppressing hunting and killing sheep. The effects we found occurred in spite of the fact that control dogs also underwent fairly harsh training regimes. Trainers and handlers should study learning theory far better and review the structure of the training in order to teach the let go command in an earlier phase and to reduce the number of mistakes. They should incorporate more rewards during exercises. Also, less temperamental and less forceful dogs should be bred. This also would decrease the chance that dogs make mistakes for which they could receive punishment.
start of page"Questionnaire survey on the use of different e-collar types in France in everyday life with a view to providing recommendations for possible future regulations"
Sylvia Masson, Isabelle Nigron, Emmanuel Gaultier, Journal of Veterinary Behaviour Volume 26 48-60, May 2018
Abstract
excerpt "...In conclusion, this survey highlights a high ratio of e-collar use in a country without regulations. It also shows that real-life conditions are far from the idealized conditions in which experimental studies were undertaken, thereby putting dog welfare at higher risk than what is presented in scientific literature. In addition, this study reveals differences between collar types in terms of efficacy and effects on welfare. These factors should be taken into account to determine a precise regulation. Furthermore, this study shows the urgency to regulate this tool in Europe because dangers of use, which were already known, are proven to be aggravated in real-life situations..." Full Study Here
start of pageCharacteristics of electronic training collars for dogs
J. A. Lines, K. van Driel, J. J. Cooper, January 2013, Animal Behaviour Cognition and Welfare Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, UK
Abstract
'A wide range of electronic dog training collars (e-collars) is available in the UK, but information enabling purchasers to compare the important characteristics of these collars is not available. In this research, the electrical characteristics of 13 e-collar models were examined, and an approach to ranking the strength of the electrical stimuli was developed...’ Full Study Here
start of page"CAN AGGRESSION IN DOGS BE ELICITED THROUGH THE USE OF ELECTRONIC PET CONTAINMENT SYSTEMS?"
Dr. Richard Polsky, Ph.D., Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science Vol. 3 2000 No. 4, June 2010
Abstract
Five cases are described that involve severe attacks on humans by dogs who were being trained or maintained on an electronic pet containment system. The system is designed to boundary train a dog through the use of electric shock in an escape-avoidance conditioning paradigm. Data were collected from legal documents filed in personal injury lawsuits. Analysis of the findings show that all dogs lacked a marked history of aggressive responding, all were adult males, and most were reproductively intact. All attacks happened near the boundary of the property. In every case, the system was operational at the time of attack. Moreover, in most cases, the dog received shock. Findings lend themselves to possible interpretation in terms of unconditioned aggression as a result of a dog having received electronic shock and avoidance-motivated aggression mediated through fear reduction toward human stimuli. For full commentary and study click Electronic Pet Containment Systems. Full article here
start of pageTHE USE OF SHOCK COLLARS AND THEIR IMPACT ON THE WELFARE OF DOGS.
A review of the current literature Dr Emily Blackwell BSc PhD CCAB and Dr Rachel Casey BVMS PhD, Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, 2006
excerpt
...There is little doubt that high intensity electrical stimulation causes a physiological stress response in dogs (Schalke, 2005). Application of initial high intensity shocks has also been found to elicit behavioural responses associated with fear and distress in the dog, including yelping, struggling, biting, freezing, withdrawal, hiding, running to the owner, cowering, trembling, defecation and urination (Tortora, 1982a). Whilst the stress response is a normal/adaptive physiological response that allows an animal to cope with changes in its environment, this can be detrimental where the animal cannot predict and control the situation, for example if the dog being trained is unable to learn how to avoid the shock. Where cortisol levels in dogs exposed to predictable/unpredictable and controllable/uncontrollable exposure to shocks have been measured, they have shown an increased cortisol response in dogs that were unable to avoid the shock (Dess et al, 1983) Full Review Here
DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF HUMAN-DIRECTED AGGRESSION IN DOGS.
The author states, “Aversive tools such as electric stimulation (shock), prong, or training (choke) collars that require pulling and jerking to work, hitting and scolding can increase anxiety and therefore increase the risk of biting; in addition, they are likely to lead to treatment failure” purchase Full Study Here
start of pageEscape rates and biting histories of dogs confined to their owner’s property through the use of various containment methods.
S.Starinsky, Nicole; K. Lord, Linda; Meghan Herron - Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, February 1, 2017
OBJECTIVE
To determine escape rates for dogs confined to their owner’s property by various containment methods and determine whether biting history was associated with containment method. Full Study Here
start of page.Training Dogs with Science or with Nature? An Exploration of Trainers’ Word Use, Gender, and Certification Across Dog-Training Methods
Anamarie C. Johnson & Clive D. L. Wynne, Anthrozoös, 2023
Dog trainers’ word choice may provide information about how a trainer understands and relates to the dogs they work with. To date, there has been little analysis of the words trainers use or whether specific words or phrases can readily differentiate the type of training methodology practiced. Full study here
ANDERS HALLGREN : BACK STUDY
Anders Hallgren, Psychologist and Animal Behaviorist, Stockholm Sweden
A study that showed that it is as usual that dogs have problems related to the spine, as we humans. In a normal population of 400 dogs there were 63% that had some sort of defect as defined by the chiropractors that were cooperating to do this piece of research. In many cases there were problematic behaviors correlated to the back defect. One of the most alarming findings is that as many as 91% of the dogs that had been pulled hard on the leash, or themselves pulled hard, had defects in the neck!
Pulling and jerking on leash as well as tethering dogs may increase the risk of a spinal injury. A dog can easily forget the boundaries of the chain or rope, accelerate, and suddenly come to a halt, with all the stopping power concentrated around the dog's neck.
he results of this study have been spread worldwide and have caused dog clubs to change training methods and not use hard pulls on the leash any longer. Many dog owners have shifted to a harness instead of a collar (especially choke chain) to avoid hurting the neck of their dogs. Study & Book Here
start of pageEFFECTS OF THE APPLICATION OF NECK PRESSURE BY A COLLAR OR HARNESS ON INTRAOCULAR PRESSURE IN DOGS
Pauli AM, Bentley E, Diehl KA, Miller PE., Department of Surgical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
Abstract
The effect on intraocular pressure (IOP) from dogs pulling against a collar or a harness was evaluated in 51 eyes of 26 dogs. The force each dog generated while pulling against a collar or a harness was measured. Intraocular pressure measurements were obtained during application of corresponding pressures via collars or harnesses. Intraocular pressure increased significantly from baseline when pressure was applied via a collar but not via a harness. Based on the results of the study, dogs with weak or thin corneas, glaucoma, or conditions for which an increase in IOP could be harmful should wear a harness instead of a collar, especially during exercise or activity. Full Study Here
"IF YOU'RE AGGRESSIVE, YOUR DOG WILL BE TOO, SAYS VETERINARY STUDY."
ScienceDaily (Feb. 17, 2009) — In a new, year-long University of Pennsylvania survey of dog owners who use confrontational or aversive methods to train aggressive pets, veterinary researchers have found that most of these animals will continue to be aggressive unless training techniques are modified. Article Here
Training methods and owner–dog interactions: Links with dog behaviour and learning ability
Nicola Jane Rooney. Sarah Cowan, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, School of Clinical Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol UK, March 2, 2011
Abstract
The methods by which owners train their pet dogs range widely, with some exclusively using rewards, and others using a combination, or only punishment-based methods. This paper examines links between the way in which owners reported to have trained their dogs and observations of the dogs' subsequent behaviour. It also explores associations between behaviour of owner and dog when tested in their own home. A total of 53 owners were surveyed about their preferred methods for training each of seven common tasks, and were each filmed interacting with their dog in a series of standardised scenarios. Dogs owned by subjects who reported using a higher proportion of punishment were less likely to interact with a stranger, and those dogs whose owners favoured physical punishment tended to be less playful. However, dogs whose owners reported using more rewards tended to perform better in a novel training task. Ability at this novel task was also higher in dogs belonging to owners who were seen to be more playful and who employed a patient approach to training. This study shows clear links between a dog's current behaviour and its owner's reported training history as well as the owner's present behaviour. High levels of punishment may thus have adverse effects upon a dog's behaviour whilst reward based training may improve a dog's subsequent ability to learn. Full Study Here.
Effects of 2 training methods on stress-related behaviors of the dog (Canis familiaris) and on the dog–owner relationship
Stephanie Deldalle, Florence Gaunet, Journal of Veterinary Behavior, Volume 9, Issue 2, April 2014, Pages 58-65
Abstract
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. Full Study Here..
Training Methods in Dogs: Welfare Implications of Different Approaches
Rachel Casey1, BVMS, PhD, DECAWBM, CCAB, MRCVS, World Small Animal Veterinary, Association World Congress Proceedings, School of Clinical Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Langford, Bristol, UK, 2015
Conclusions
'Accurately determining the underlying motivation for a behaviour requires specialist expertise, as does assessing the risk that an aversive experience might actually increase the severity of a problem behaviour or induce new ones. Because of the serious risks of using punishment-based techniques, even when applied 'accurately,' most professional behavioural clinicians very rarely advocate the use of any punishment-based training techniques in the modification of dog behaviour. As owners, trainers or clinical behaviourists, we all share a responsibility to the welfare of our dogs to use the least aversive methods available to us to change our dog's behaviour without the need for pain or fear.' Full Paper Here
"DOG TRAINING METHODS: THEIR USE, EFFECTIVENESS AND INTERACTION WITH BEHAVIOUR AND WELFARE"
EF Hiby*, NJ Rooney, JWS Bradshaw, Anthrozoology Institute, Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Langford, Bristol, UK, 2004
Abstract
Historically, pet dogs were trained using mainly negative reinforcement or punishment, but positive reinforcement using rewards has recently become more popular. The methods used may have different impacts on the dogs' welfare. We distributed a questionnaire to 364 dog owners in order to examine the relative effectiveness of different training methods and their effects upon a pet dog's behaviour. When asked how they trained their dog on seven basic tasks, 66% reported using vocal punishment, 12% used physical punishment, 60% praise (social reward), 51% food rewards and 11% play. The owner's ratings for their dog's obedience during eight tasks correlated positively with the number of tasks which they trained using rewards (P < 0.01), but not using punishment (P = 0.5). When asked whether their dog exhibited any of 16 common problematic behaviours, the number of problems reported by the owners correlated with the number of tasks for which their dog was trained using punishment (P < 0.001), but not using rewards (P = 0.17). Exhibition of problematic behaviours may be indicative of compromised welfare, because such behaviours can be caused by, or result in, a state of anxiety and may lead to a dog being relinquished or abandoned. Because punishment was associated with an increased incidence of problematic behaviours, we conclude that it may represent a welfare concern without concurrent benefits in obedience. We suggest that positive training methods may be more useful to the pet-owning community. Full Paper Here
SURVEY OF THE USE AND OUTCOME OF CONFRONTATIONAL AND NON-CONFRONTATIONAL TRAINING METHODS IN CLIENT-OWNED DOGS SHOWING UNDESIRED BEHAVIOURS.
Meghan E. Herron, Frances S. Shofer, Ilana R. Reiser, Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Vol: 117, Issue: 1, Page: 47-54, 2009
Abstract
Prior to seeking the counsel of a veterinary behaviorist many dog owners have attempted behavior modification techniques suggested by a variety of sources. Recommendations often include aversive training techniques which may provoke fearful or defensively aggressive behavior. The purpose of this study was to assess the behavioral effects and safety risks of techniques used historically by owners of dogs with behavior problems... Read More Here
THE USE OF ELECTRONIC COLLARS FOR TRAINING DOMESTIC DOGS: ESTIMATED PREVALENCE, REASONS AND RISK FACTORS FOR USE, AND OWNER PERCEIVED SUCCESS AS COMPARED TO OTHER TRAINING METHODS
Emily J Blackwell, Christine Bolster, Gemma Richards, Bethany A Loftus and Rachel A Casey, November 2011
Background
The use of electronic training devices for dog training is controversial. The aims of this study were to give an indication of the extent to which dog owners use these devices in England, identify factors associated with their use, and compare owner report of outcomes. A convenience sample of dog owners in England was used to identify numbers using electronic training devices and identify reasons for use. Factors associated with use of remote e-collars only were determined by comparing dogs trained using these devices with two control populations matched for reason of use (recall / chasing problems). Comparison groups were: those using other 'negative reinforcement / positive punishment' training techniques, and those using 'positive reinforcement / negative punishment' based methods. A multinominal logistic regression model was used to compare factors between categories of training method. Owner reported success for use was compared using chi-squared analysis.
Conclusions
In conclusion, a fairly low proportion of owners select to use electronic training devices. For a population matched by reason for training method use, characteristics of dogs, including occurrence of undesired behaviours do not appear to distinguish between training methods. Rather, owner gender and attendance at training classes appear more important, although explaining a relatively small amount of variance between groups. More owners using reward based methods for recall / chasing report a successful outcome of training than those using e-collars.
SEVERE BRAIN DAMAGE AFTER PUNITIVE TRAINING TECHNIQUE WITH A CHOKE CHAIN COLLAR IN A GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG - JOURNAL OF VETERINARY BEHAVIOR - CLINICAL APPLICATIONS AND RESEARCH
Kristina Grohmann, Mark J. Dickomeit, Martin J. Schmidt, Martin Kramer, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Small Animal Clinic, Justus Liebig-University, Frankfurter, Germany, December 4, 2012
Abstract
The features of severe ischemic brain damage after strangulation by the owner of a 1-year-old German shepherd dog are described. The dog was disciplined by the owner during training by holding the dog off the ground by his choke chain collar. At first, the dog behaved normally, but he became increasingly ataxic and started circling to the left and showed reduced consciousness. The neurological examination revealed severe disorientation, left lateral pleurothotonus, and circling. The neurological findings were consistent with a multifocal brain lesion. A magnetic resonance imaging scan was performed and showed changes in the T2- and diffusion-weighted images, consistent with severe cerebral edema resulting from ischemia. Because of the severity of the clinical features, the dog was later euthanized. To the author's knowledge, this is the first report of a severe brain ischemia after strangulation in a dog. Full Article Here
Pathologies of The Dog Associated With The Use of Choke Chains
Miles Anita, Dissertation, June 2007
"Not only is this constant pulling uncomfortable for the person at the end of the lead but can actually damage the dogs neck and windpipe. Research done in the United States has identified that many cases of aggression were due to dogs having neck symptoms were persistent pullers on the lead. Once these dogs had spinal realignment, the aggressive behaviour significantly reduced."... Full Article Here
Perception of Dogs’ Stress by Their Owners
Chiara Mariti, Angelo Gazzano, Jane Lansdown Moore, Paolo Baraglia, Laura Chelli, Claudio Sighieri, Journal of Veterinary Behavior Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy; and Clinica Veterinaria di Via Fontana, Milan, Italy, 2012
Abstract
Questionnaires potentially have a broad applicability in measuring stress levels in dogs, as owners know their dogs’ behavior and personality better than anyone else. The aim of this research was to evaluate how owners perceive stress in their dogs through understanding of displayed behaviors
The survey was carried out using 1,190 questionnaires completed by dog owners. More than half of respondents were able to correctly identify stress as a short- or long-term alteration of the psychophysical equilibrium that can develop into illness. This ability was higher with higher educational levels. The behavioral indicators of stress most frequently identified by owners were trembling and whining, followed by aggressiveness, excessive barking, and panting. More subtle behaviors such as looking elsewhere, turning head, yawning, and nose licking were more rarely reported, suggesting that few owners are able to correctly interpret and intervene in early stages of stress. The vast majority of respondents indicated that dogs were stressed seldom or only in specific situations. Men generally considered their dogs as experiencing low stress more often than did women, whereas women considered their dogs as being moderately stressed more often than did men.
An owner’s ability to recognize behavioral signs of stress is important, as it enables the owner to help the animal to avoid welfare problems, such as stressful situations, and favors a rapid recovery of psychophysical homeostasis by interrupting the progression to overstress and distress. The results show that some owners can help in protecting the welfare of their dogs, but that many owners would benefit from educational efforts to improve their ability to interpret their dogs’ behavior. Full Article Here
The Effects of Using Aversive Training Methods in Dogs- A review
Gal Ziv, Wingate Institute, Journal of Veterinary Behavior, Clinical Applications & Research, Israel, Feb 23, 2017
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to review a series of studies (N = 17) regarding the effects of using various methods when training dogs. The reviewed studies examined the differences between training methods (e.g., methods based on positive reinforcement, positive punishment, escape/avoidance, et cetera) on a dog's physiology, welfare, and behavior toward humans and other dogs. The reviewed studies included surveys, observational studies, and interventions. The results show that using aversive training methods (e.g., positive punishment and negative reinforcement) can jeopardize both the physical and mental health of dogs. In addition, although positive punishment can be effective, there is no evidence that it is more effective than positive reinforcement–based training. In fact, there is some evidence that the opposite is true. A few methodological concerns arose from the reviewed studies. Among them are small sample sizes, missing data on effect size, possible bias when coding behavior in observational studies, and the need to publish case reports of bodily damage caused by aversive training methods. In conclusion, those working with or handling dogs should rely on positive reinforcement methods and avoid using positive punishment and negative reinforcement as much as possible. Full Article Here
Training methods of military dog handlers and their effects on the team’s performances
A. Haverbeke, B. Laporte, E. Depiereux, J.-M. Giffroy, C. Diederich, Applied Animal Behave Science, Laboratory of Anatomy and Ethology of Domestic Animals, University of Namur (FUNDP), Belgium, November 2007
Abstract
While only a few studies have analysed training methods used on working dogs, a recent survey in 303 Belgian military handlers revealed the use of harsh training methods on military working dogs (MWD). The present work aims at analysing the training methods used on Belgian MWD and the behaviour of handlers to objectify the performances of the dog handlers teams (DH teams) and the welfare of the animals.
A standardized evaluation, including obedience and protection work exercises, was conducted on DH teams (n = 33). Every evaluation was done twice to assess the reliability of the observation methods. The behaviours of MWD and handlers were recorded on videotape and subsequently analysed. Results showed that handlers rewarded or punished their dogs intermittently. Stroking and patting the dogs were the most frequently used rewards. Pulling on the leash and hanging dogs by their collars were the most commonly used aversive stimuli.
The team’s performance was influenced by the training method and by the dog’s concentration: (1) low- performance dogs received more aversive stimuli than high-performance dogs; (2) dog’s distraction influenced the performance: distracted dogs performed less well.
Handlers punished more and rewarded less at the second evaluation than at the first one. This suggests that handlers modified their usual behaviour at the first evaluation in view to present themselves in a positive light. During the second evaluation the dogs reacted to this higher frequency of aversive stimuli as they exhibited a lower posture after aversive stimuli. The authors cannot prove that the welfare of these dogs had been hampered, but there is an indication that it was under threat.
Low team performances suggest that DH teams should train more regularly and undertake the usefulness of setting a new training system that would rely on: the use of more positive training methods, an increased training frequency, the elaboration of a course on training principles, and an improvement of dog handler relationship. 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. Full Article Here
Clinical signs caused by the use of electric training collars on dogs in everyday life situations
E. Schalke,, J. Stichnoth, S. Ott, R. Jones-Baade, Department of Animal Welfare and Behaviour, Veterinary School of Hannover, Germany, 2007
Conclusion
The results of this study suggest that poor timing in the application of high level electric pulses, such as those used in this study, means there is a high risk that dogs will show severe and persistent stress symptoms.
We recommend that the use of these devices should be restricted with proof of theoretical and practical qualification required and then the use of these devices should only be allowed in strictly specified situations. Study Here
Open Letter to Canine Research Scientists
by Linda Michaels, M.A. Psychology
Linda Michaels calls on canine research scientists to lead the way on the ethical treatment of companion animals.
It would require a long list to delineate the benefits of companion animal canine research conferences and live streams. Admirably, these conference bring canine researchers into the mainstream of the canine applied practices fields, i.e., dog training. Many pet parents and trainers take careful note of scientific positions and plan to incorporate the lessons-learned into their practice. The researchers benefit in kind from relationships forged with dog trainers and pet parents. Through these forums, canine research scientists may reap benefits that include research dollars, personal financial rewards in the form of speaker fees and opportunities for book sales, name and brand exposure.
Although the preponderance of materials presented at dog behavior conferences often favour a force-free approach, notably shock collar snake aversion "training" and emergency recall are of particular concern. Critical empirically based data and a clear position on ethics are not always forthcoming or apparent in these areas. Full Open Letter Here
start of pageRepeated stress causes cognitive impairment by suppressing glutamate receptor expression and function in prefrontal cortex
Neuron, Yuen EY, Wei J, Liu W, Zhong P, Li X, Yan Z. 2012;73(5):962-77.
SUMMARY
Chronic stress could trigger maladaptive changes associated with stress-related mental disorders, however, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, we found that exposing juvenile male rats to repeated stress significantly impaired the temporal order recognition memory, a cognitive process controlled by prefrontal cortex (PFC). Concomitantly, significantly reduced AMPAR- and NMDAR-mediated synaptic transmission and glutamate receptor expression were found in PFC pyramidal neurons from repeatedly stressed animals. All these effects relied on activation of glucocorticoid receptors and the subsequent enhancement of ubiquitin/proteasome-mediated degradation of GluR1 and NR1 subunits, which was controlled by the E3 ubiquitin ligase Nedd4-1 and Fbx2, respectively. Inhibition of proteasomes or knockdown of Nedd4-1 and Fbx2 in PFC prevented the loss of glutamatergic responses and recognition memory in stressed animals. Our results suggest that repeated stress dampens PFC glutamatergic transmission by facilitating glutamate receptor turnover, which causes the detrimental effect on PFC-dependent cognitive processes. Full Study Here
start of pageWHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS OF USING TRAINING TECHNIQUES WHICH INDUCE FEAR OR PAIN IN DOGS?
Article from Welfare in Dog Training
Conclusion
Accurately determining the underlying motivation for a behaviour requires specialist expertise, as does assessing the risk that an aversive experience might actually increase the severity of a problem behaviour or induce new ones. Because of the serious risks of using punishment based techniques, even when applied ‘accurately’, most professional behavioural clinicians very rarely advocate the use of any punishment based training techniques in the modification of dog behaviour. As owners, trainers or clinical behaviourists, we all share a responsibility to the welfare our dogs to use the least aversive methods available to us to change our dog’s behaviour without the need for pain or fear. Full Article Here
start of pageAssociations Between Owner Personality And Psychological Status And The Prevalence Of Canine Behavior Problems
PLoS One, 2018, Nicholas H. Dodman, Dorothy C. Brown, James A. Serpell,
excerpt “...The use of positive punishment and/or confrontational or aversive methods of behavioral control, in particular, have been shown to be associated with behavior problems, such as aggression, anxiety and excitability [22–27], increased behavioral and physiological signs of stress [28, 29], reduced ability to learn [20, 26] and reduced willingness to interact with strangers [15, 20]. Considered as a whole, these findings suggest the hypothesis that the relationship between owner personality and psychological status and the behavior of companion dogs is mediated by the quality or style of the owner’s interactions with the dog, particularly in the context of training.”... Full study here
Long-term stress levels are synchronized in dogs and their owners.
Sci Rep 9, 2019, Sundman, AS., Van Poucke, E., Svensson Holm, AC. et al
This study reveals, for the first time, an interspecific synchronization in long-term stress levels. Previously, acute stress, has been shown to be highly contagious both among humans and between individuals of other species. Here, long-term stress synchronization in dogs and their owners was investigated. Full study here
The effects of fear and anxiety on health and lifespan in pet dogs
Nancy A. Dreschel , Department of Dairy and Animal Science, Pennsylvania State University, USA April 13, 2010
Abstract
Fear and anxiety-related behaviors are common in pet dogs and are likely to cause a physiological stress response in individuals that are exposed to those things they find fear or anxiety-inducing. Stress responses are related to a number of changes in hormonal and immune modulation and have been shown in many species to be related to disease processes and shortened lifespan. It was predicted that dogs with fear and anxiety disorders would have decreased lifespan and increased disease frequency and severity.
In this retrospective study, owners of 721 deceased dogs completed a 99 question on-line survey that asked about the demographics, training, behavioral characteristics, health history, age at and cause of death in their pets. Correlational and regression analyses were performed to explore relationships between behavior; fear and anxiety subscales; lifespan; and specific diseases and causes of death. Full Study Here
start of pagePain and aggression: Some findings and implications
Berkowitz, L. , Motivation and Emotion, Volume 17, Issue 3, pp 277–293, September 1993
Abstract
Consistent with the cognitive-neoassociationistic conception of anger and emotional aggression, a wide variety of studies with animal as well as human subjects demonstrate that pain often gives rise to an inclination to hurt an available target, and also, at the human level, that people in pain are apt to be angry. However, and also in accord with the present formulation, these “primitive” angry/aggressive reactions can be suppressed, intensified, or modified by cognitive processes.Find article here
Does training method matter? Evidence for the negative impact of aversive-based methods on companion dog welfare
Ana Catarina Viera de Castro et al, bioRrxiv, October, 2019
Abstract
excerpt “...These findings indicate that the use of aversive-based methods compromises the welfare of companion dogs in both the short- and the long-term.” Find study here (note: preprint before completing peer review)
An investigation into the effectiveness of various professionals and behavior modification programs, with or without medication, for the treatment of canine aggression.
Ian R. Dinwoodie, Vivian Zottola, Nicholas H. Dodman, Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 2021
Abstract excerpt "...As far as training equipment was concerned, we found that anti-bark collars and muzzles decreased the probability for successful treatment of aggression. Thirty-six percent of dogs were exposed to behavior modification programs as a form of treatment and an association was found between employment of a systematic desensitization and counterconditioning for treatment of overall aggression. When employing behavior modification training techniques, response blocking was found to decrease probability for improvement when employed for treatment of fear aggression to other dogs and predatory aggression. Improved dog-owner communication, habituation, relaxation protocols, and short and frequent training sessions were the most consistently beneficial behavior modification techniques. At least one beneficial behavior modification technique was identified for each investigated form of aggression...” Study here.
Training Dogs with Science or with Nature? An Exploration of Trainers’ Word Use, Gender, and Certification Across Dog-Training Methods
Anamarie C. Johnson & Clive D. L. Wynne, Anthrozoös, DOI: 10.1080/08927936.2022.2062869 Apr 2022
Dog trainers’ word choice may provide information about how a trainer understands and relates to the dogs they work with. To date, there has been little analysis of the words trainers use or whether specific words or phrases can readily differentiate the type of training methodology practiced. We gathered demographic and educational information and the stated training philosophy from the websites of 100 dog trainers from 10 US cities, identified by a popular consumer review site, to determine whether there was a difference in word use between training methodologies, if women practiced non-aversive techniques more than men, and if non-aversive trainers were more often certified than aversive trainers. Full research here
Electric shock control of farmed animals: Welfare review and ethical critique
D. Grumett, A. Butterworth
Animal Welfare, Volume 31, Number 3, August 2022, pp. 373-385(13)
Publisher: Universities Federation for Animal Welfare
Abstract : The available methods of electric shock control or containment of farmed animals are increasing and potentially include: (i) fixed and movable electric fencing; (ii) cattle trainers; (iii) prods or goads; (iv) wires in poultry barns; (v) dairy collecting yard backing gates; (vi) automated milking systems (milking robots); and (vii) collars linked to virtual fencing and containment systems. Since any electric shock is likely to cause a farmed animal pain, any such control or containment must, to be ethically justifiable, bring clear welfare benefits that cannot be practicably delivered in other ways. Associated areas of welfare concern with ethical implications include the displacement of stockpersons by technology, poor facility design, stray voltage, coercive behavioural change and indirect impacts on human society and values. Full review here
Pain as a Cause of Aggression.”, Ulrich, Roger. American Zoologist, vol. 6, no. 4, Nov. 1966, pp. 643–662. JSTOR, www.jstor.org/stable/3881480.
SYNOPSIS. Aggressive behavior can be elicited by a aversive stimuli as an unconditioned reflex. Electric shock, heat, physical blows, and intra-cranial stimulation are among the stimuli which will elicit fighting. Various characteristics of the stimulus— such as frequency of presentation, intensity, and duration, in the case of shock—and of the environment in general, influence the reate at which pain-elicite fighting occurs. Characteristics of the animals—such as sex, age, sensory impairment, species and social experience—also influence the occurrence of respondent aggression. Full Article Here
Canine collars: an investigation of collar type and the forces applied to a simulated neck model
Anne Carter, Donal McNally, Amanda Roshier, Vet Rec. Oct. 3, 2020. 187(7):e52. doi: 10.1136/vr.105681.
Abstract
Background: Dog collars have the potential to cause harm when the dog pulls on the lead. This study aimed to determine the effects of collar type and force applied using the lead on the pressure on a simulated neck model. Full article here
Lead pulling as a welfare concern in pet dogs: What can veterinary professionals learn from current research? VetRecord, British Veterinary Association
Lesley Townsent; Laura Dixon, Louise Buckley, May 2022
Abstract
Veterinary professionals (VPs) are often the first source of advice for clients struggling with their dog's behaviour, and pulling on the lead is a commonplace undesirable behaviour VPs will encounter regularly in practice. Full Article Here