Two hypotheses were tested in the study. Firstly, the most effective methods of training dogs were to be established by comparing the degree of variation in behavior developed. Secondly, the relationship between the owner's behavior and the dog's behavior was also to be determined.
The owners in training their dogs used four main methods, and they included punishment-based, reward-based, miscellaneous, and physical punishment (Rooney & Cowan, 2011). The effectiveness of these methods was determined by measuring the level of obedience, interaction, and involvement. The punishment-based method involved the use of verbal threats and more aversive stimuli, as well as isolation to induce intended behaviors in dogs. This method is deemed to entail low levels of interaction, involvement, and obedience. Reward-based methods involved the use of rewards, such as foods, praise, and balls in training the dogs how to accomplish tasks assigned. This training method results in a high level of involvement, interaction, and obedience. Physical punishment method entails using less aggressive measures, such as tying the dog with a choke chain, flicking the ear or squirting water on the dog's face. This method is associated with little interaction, obedience, and involvement. The miscellaneous way is where the dogs are left to develop the intended behavior on their own. It does not encourage communication, compliance, or engagement.
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The most reliable method of dog training is reward-based. It has been concluded that dogs develop the desired behavior when they are more relaxed, and their physical needs are met. The use of rewards motivates the dogs to learn the desired behavior. However, punishment method has also been applied by dog owners. When these methods are used together, the dogs will develop the intended behavior appropriately.
This research has provided answers to the main topic as it has affirmed that methods used in training determine the dogs’ behavior. Punishment and reward-based methods are to be used together in training the dogs to accomplish the tasks assigned. However, it takes the owner’s patience and involvement to ensure that the desired behavior is developed.
Reference
Rooney, J., N., & Cowan, S. (2011). Training methods and owner-dog interactions: Links with dog behaviour and learning ability. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 132 , 169–177. doi:10.1016/j.applanim.2011.03.007.
