🐾 Dog Training and Dog Behaviourist – Canberra

Training your dog is an essential responsibility for every domestic dog owner. In this article, I’ll aim to keep things clear and concise—yet informative and helpful.

Indeed, it’s vital that dog owners understand what type of training best suits their dog’s breed, temperament, and their own goals. Far too often, people are convinced to spend money on training programs that are either ineffective or inappropriate. In many cases, this leads to worsened behaviour and frustration.

🐶 Why Start Dog Training Early?

At Cause for Paws, we strongly advocate starting training from the earliest puppy stages.

For example, imagine walking your dog through an off-leash park. Suddenly, your dog spots a possum or cat across the road. If your dog was trained solely with a reward-based method, no matter how big the steak in your hand is, your dog will likely ignore you and lunge forward—completely tuning out your commands.

This isn’t speculation—it’s a scenario many dog owners have experienced firsthand.

🧭 Respect-Based Dog Training

Now, let’s contrast that. A dog trained through Respect-Based Training in the same situation will stop immediately at your command—“STAY”—and remain by your side, awaiting further instruction such as “FREE.” All this without bribery or treats.

Just think about the pack leader in the wild. Does he hand out treats when his pack follows him? No. He leads through strength, consistency, and calm authority. Pack animals respect their leader because he offers stability, protection, and trust—not snacks.

Respect in dogs is achieved through body language, eye contact, energy, and bonding—not yelling, hitting, or coercion.

Respect is a learned behaviour in the wild. With the right trainer—someone familiar with these natural behaviours—this can be cultivated through positive, humane techniques. Resorting to punishment only breeds fear and resentment, not respect or obedience.

👥 Humanising Dogs: A Common Mistake

One major issue many owners face is unknowingly humanising their dogs. We often project human emotions onto them—like guilt, shame, or empathy. This causes confusion and can lead to various forms of anxiety.

The truth is, dogs don’t hold grudges or feel remorse over toys or food. They are primal beings, guided by instinct, behaviour, and physical needs. While they’ve been domesticated for over 11,000 years, they haven’t fundamentally changed in their social or behavioural structures.

🎯 Reward-Based Training: When It Works

Now, I’m not saying Reward-Based Training doesn’t work—it absolutely has its place. We use it ourselves at Cause for Paws, especially with:

• Performing dogs

• Detection dogs (e.g., narcotics or explosives)

• Puppies in early stages of learning

However, in my experience, dogs trained through Respect-Based Training consistently follow commands—often 99% of the time—and are still rewarded afterwards with affection, toys, or food.

Importantly, this doesn’t involve harsh treatment. On the contrary, respect-trained dogs respond best to calm, assertive leadership.

🚨 Don’t Miss It – Canberra & Snowy Monaro Region

If you’re considering training to correct barking, aggression, or other behaviours, many factors must be considered:

• Breed purpose (e.g., hunting, guarding, companionship)

• Intelligence level

• Energy level

• Daily environment and interactions

Different dogs require tailored methods. Sadly, not every trainer has the skills or knowledge to provide this.

📚 Respect-Based Training Is Earned

Respect-Based Training takes years of hands-on experience, observation, and study. Unfortunately, many trainers fall back on harmful tools like choke chains and electronic collars. These methods are not only cruel but also ineffective long-term.

As soon as the collar comes off, the bad behaviours return. The pack leader in the wild doesn’t need such devices—he has trust, leadership, and connection.

Worse still are the many stories of people spending thousands on “trainers” and “behaviourists” with no results. Perhaps you’ve heard a few of those stories yourself.

❤️ Why I Do This

I love dogs. I’ve lived and worked with them all my life. I respect them, their instincts, and their way of communicating. That’s why I will never advocate physical punishment or abuse. It doesn’t work—and it destroys the relationship.

Instead, it’s all about respect. If you learn how to earn your dog’s respect—in their language—you’ll have their full attention… every time. (Except, maybe, when they’re rolling in a mud puddle!)

📝 Ask Yourself These Two Questions:

Before you choose a training method or program, reflect on these:

1. What exactly do you want your dog to do—or stop doing?

2. Is your dog’s breed appropriate for your family’s lifestyle and energy level?

🐕 Final Thoughts – Dog Training and Dog Behaviourist in Canberra

To me, a well-trained dog isn’t one that shakes paws for a treat. It’s the dog that looks into my eyes and waits for permission to run, play, or enjoy that delicious steak.

So, if you want your dog’s full attention—regardless of the distractions around—reach out to Cause for Paws today for a professional dog training assessment.

👉 Contact Us Now!