📘 WEEK 3 — Positive Reinforcement vs. Punishment: What Science Says

Dog training remains controversial in many communities, especially with the rise of social media advice that mixes old-school dominance methods with modern techniques. But research overwhelmingly supports one approach: positive reinforcement.

Why Positive Reinforcement Works

Reward-based training builds behaviors through motivation. It avoids fear, anxiety, and aggression, which often accompany punishment-based methods. It also allows dogs to make choices and become problem-solvers.

The Harm of Punishment-Based Training

Studies show punishment increases:

• Stress hormones

• Reactivity

• Aggression

• Avoidant behaviors

Punishment can also suppress communication, making fearful dogs appear “calm” when they are actually shutting down.

Modern Training Values Emotion

Good trainers consider how the dog feels, not just how it behaves. A dog performing a cue while calm and confident is far more reliable than one responding out of fear.