There are several myths about dog training that can often lead to misunderstanding and missed opportunities for many pet owners. Understanding the truth behind these myths can open up a world of possibilities for your dog’s development and your relationship together. Below, we’ll review some of the most common dog training myths and set the record straight.
1. Training Has to Be in Person
One of the biggest misconceptions in dog training is that it must be done in person to be effective. Advancements in technology have made virtual training not only possible but also highly successful! Virtual training offers flexibility and the ability to learn in your dog’s everyday environment. This setup can be less distracting and overwhelming for dogs while remaining incredibly convenient for their owner.
2. Training Has to be Done While They’re a Puppy
A common myth is that if training isn’t done before a dog’s first birthday, it’s too late. While it’s true that puppies can quickly pick up new behaviors, that ability doesn’t leave as they age. Dogs of any age can acquire new skills and respond to training!
3. Only Certain Dog Breeds Can Be Service Dogs
The misconception that only specific breeds can become service dogs likely comes from the prevalence of popular service dog breeds like Labradors and Golden Retrievers. While these breeds are often chosen, service dog potential isn’t limited to them! Many breeds can be trained as service animals if they have the right temperament, size, and energy level for the tasks required. What matters most in a service dog is the connection between the service dog and their handler.
4. Dogs Can’t Unlearn Bad Habits
Some people believe that once a dog develops a bad habit, it’s there to stay—this is closely tied to the myth that dogs need to be trained when they’re puppies in order for training to be effective. Certain training methods might not address the root of the behavior, leading to the belief that bad habits are here to stay. The truth is that dogs (of any age) can unlearn undesirable habits with the right approach—it’s all about understanding and identifying the triggers behind certain behaviors and addressing them constructively.
5. Negative Reinforcement Is Best
Unfortunately, the idea that negative reinforcement is the most effective training method still lingers. Punishment may seemingly yield immediate results, but the only thing negative reinforcement teaches is for your dog to be afraid of you—which can have a negative impact on your relationship and, as a result, training.
Positive reinforcement, on the other hand, is shown to be more effective and humane. It not only encourages desired behaviors but also strengthens the bond between the dog and owner—making training even more effective.
Explore Virtual Dog Training Options for Every Need
Now that you know the truth behind these myths, it’s time to get started on training—that’s where we come in! At Fetch and More, we offer accessible and adaptable virtual dog training for all areas. Whether you’re looking to start with some foundational obedience training or train them to fulfill a specialized role, our training courses have you covered. Visit our virtual training courses page to get started, or contact us to learn more.
