Punishment vs Positive Training

[Jac]

I was reading about behavioral issues at the UC Davis site and noticed that they have a policy regarding punishment (Prong Collars, Choke Chains, Electronic Collars, Knee to Chest, etc.) I thought that it was an excellent article and wanted to share it. Please pay close attention to the 2nd and last pages.
http://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/vmth/smal ... ements.pdf

[kirama]

Thank you for posting that. Now, if we could get every dog owner to read it...

[kirama]

If any of you want more specific information on positive training, here's a site with some great videos and lectures, covering subjects such as leash aggression, loose leash walking, working with a rescue, etc.
http://abrionline.org/videos.php

[tuffystar]

I really appreciate this post. It is really good to understand what works and doesn't and why. I have been learning from the forum better ways of training than what I grew up seeing done with the family pets. What I did not fully understand is how some of the "training" methods of the "old days" caused negative behaviors we never were able to undo. I don't know about you but people often go on repeating the things they learn in childhood until someone teaches them a better, kinder way. That is why I am glad there is a place like this forum and the links that are posted like this one to teach a better way. Ok I know I must sound sappy but I have changed a ton from posts like this. Not that I have been intentionally unkind to my dogs but I have made some mistakes because I did not understand or have a better way. Thanks Jac and Kirama!

[Jac]

Thanks for your input Lynne, Kathy .
I post this because I, too, was taught to use the prong collar and you will still see my posts on this forum where I say how great they are! I am so ashamed of those posts but I leave them (I could delete them and save face) because I want people to know, as Kathy says, it is okay to learn and change!
I was quite surprised to see an official report about it, though. When I saw that I wanted to post it because it is no longer just my opinion...it seems to be the direction of modern training. I am happy to pass this along!
This post is NOT meant to judge or belittle anyone who might use these methods...only to help you understand why the trend is changing...and for those who might be considering the options, I wanted them to have this info.

[Raleighsmom]

Thanks for posting this Jac...great article....(but I still use the bark collar...on occasion... )