Dominance Theory In Dog Training Is Outdated

In the last twenty years the theories and methods used in dog training have changed a great deal. One such change is in 'dominance theory' which is considered to be outdated by most professionals involved in ethology, animal behaviour and many (but not all) dog trainers.

An excellent overview of modern thought on how dominance theory is outdated is provided by the The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behaviour in their 2008 "Position Statement on the Use of Dominance Theory in Behaviour Modification of Animals"

Key points of their Position Statement include:

• "Despite the fact that advances in behaviour research have modified our understanding of social hierarchies in wolves, many animal trainers continue to base their training methods on outdated perceptions of dominance theory."
   
• "Most undesirable behaviours in our pets are not related to priority access to resources; rather, they are due to accidental rewarding of the undesirable behaviour."
   
• "The AVSAB emphasizes that animal training, behaviour prevention strategies, and behaviour modification programs should follow the scientifically based guidelines of positive reinforcement, operant conditioning, classical conditioning, desensitization, and counter conditioning."
   
• "The AVSAB emphasizes that ... dominance theory should not be used as a general guide for behaviour modification."
   
• "The AVSAB clarifies that dominance and leadership are not synonymous."
   
• "The most common cause of aggression in dogs is fear. Pinning a dog down when he is scared will not address the root of his fear. Furthermore it can heighten the aggression."
   

Read additional exerpts from the Position Statement on dominance theory.

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