What’s the Difference?

There’s a lot of talk, lately, about different training methods. There is also a great deal of debate about which method is better. For your information, here are the three main methods, and what they entail.

Positive Reinforcement [aka R+]: This method utilizes rewards like food, attention or play to motivate a dog to perform a particular behavior. Physical corrections such as leash pops are not used; instead, verbal corrections [e.g. “uh-uh”], finger snapping, or body blocking [preventing the dog from moving towards what it wants] are used to redirect the dog’s attention to a desired behavior.

Force Free [aka FF]: This method utilizes both R+ and negative punishment. Negative punishment is denying or taking away something the dog wants [e.g. treats] when they don’t give you the behavior you want. It also means not using force [e.g. leash pops], e-collars, vibrating collars, or prong collars – all of which are considered to be aversive tools that cause fear and pain to the dog.

Balanced: This method utilizes positive reinforcement techniques as well as corrections. However, it also includes the use of “aversives” [e-collars, prong collars, vibrating collars, and slip leashes], but only when necessary, and only as a temporary measure.

I am a balanced dog trainer. In my opinion, dog training is about using common sense to help the dog learn what behaviors are and are not acceptable. In my experience, rewards and consequences are the logical way to achieve that. Sometimes, the consequences have to make the dog uncomfortable in order for them to learn. A good example of this – from a human perspective – is a child who insists on trying to touch a hot stove, despite being repeatedly told it’s hot and it can hurt them. The parent eventually has to take a stronger measure. They yell “No!” [aversive], which startles the child and makes them cry. The child then learns that the action [trying to touch the hot stove] creates a very uncomfortable consequence [being startled], and the behavior decreases or stops altogether.

I hope this helps you understand the different methods a bit better. When you’re looking for a trainer, it’s important to your and your dog’s success that you feel comfortable with them; that you resonate with their methods. And, if you have questions or concerns, you should be able to discuss them with your trainer.

Have a great day, and remember to stay calm and lead on.