By Steve Dale, CABC
Dog training methodology is at a crossroads, and veterinary technicians must play a role.
The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) believes that standardization and licensing should be established across the field and is attempting legislative changes to achieve that.
However, the CCPDT has agreed to accept the use of prong/pinch collars, chain link “choke collars,” and e-collars (shock collars). Normalizing this equipment sets the profession back a couple of decades. On social media, there is a proliferation of trainers dedicated to using these tools, claiming huge success.
CCPDT initially led an impressive coalition for legislative change, but that support has rightfully disintegrated. The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, Karen Pryor Academy, Victoria Stilwell Academy for Dog Training & Behavior, Jean Donaldson Academy for Dog Trainers, Pet Professional Guild, and Association for Professional Dog Training International have all withdrawn, each issuing statements explaining their positions.
In any industry, a certifying body should uphold the highest standards guided by science and ethics.
Numerous studies around the world show that shock collars can cause significant physical and psychological harm to dogs. These devices often lead to stress, fear, and even physical injuries. In dogs that are not aggressive, these devices can provoke aggression. And while a shock may temporarily stop an aggressive dog in its tracks, it doesn’t address the root cause —usually fear. In fact, shocking a fearful dog can make the fear worse, escalating the underlying problem. Here are just a few examples of research on the topic: From Science Daily, electronic training collars pose welfare risks to pet dogs. From Utrecht University, (Netherlands), the use of electronic collars led to increased cortisol levels (a stress hormone) in dogs. A comprehensive review of 17 peer-reviewed studies concluded that aversive training methods, including shock collars, jeopardize both the physical and mental health of dogs.
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) has issued a clear position statement on Humane Dog Training noting “Evidence supports the use of reward-based methods for all canine training.” They point out that aversive equipment, including shock collars, harms animal welfare. The paper offers 21 supporting citations. Many authoritative books written by veterinary behaviorists also strongly discourage the use of aversive tools and include extensive citations supporting their stance. One essential resource is Canine and Feline Behavior for Veterinary Technicians and Nurses, edited by behavior specialists Julie Shaw, RVT, VTS (Behavior), KPA, CTP and Debbie Martin, RVT, CTP, VTS (Behavior).
If dogs are truly a man’s best friend – and if better and more effective ways to train them exist – do we really need to shock to communicate?
Shock collars are banned in Austria, Denmark, Germany, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, Slovenia, Switzerland, Wales, the province of Quebec in Canada, and several states in Australia. Even Petco stopped selling them in 2020, smack dab amid the pandemic, taking an economic hit to do what was right.
Here in the United States, some communities are considering similar legislation, while the CCPDT continues to accept or advocate for these devices.
Why? It’s because some trainers – often “balanced trainers” –defend their use claiming they apply them judiciously. I suggest there is no such thing. Law enforcement agencies often favor these tools, though research has shown they’re unnecessary. The American Kennel Club (AKC) supports their use in training show dogs or dogs competing in AKC-sanctioned sports like agility, and they are pressuring the CCPDT accordingly.
This brings us back to the key point: Veterinary practices – led by technicians – can and should advocate for positive reinforcement trainers. Attend classes in your area to evaluate them for yourself. Make sure you’re not recommending anyone who uses equipment that causes physical or emotional – pain.
I like the idea of technicians running puppy classes right in the clinic. Not only is it fun (let’s be honest, it’s more about training the people than the puppies!), but it also helps puppies associate the clinic with a positive experience. You’ll know you are getting them started on the right paw, using only positive methods. Plus, you are available to answer questions about house training, feeding, nipping, and more – keeping clients off Dr. Google and away from unqualified trainers.. And hopefully, you’re also making a few extra dollars doing it.
Technicians must not be silent on this issue. Technicians have told me “I feel irrelevant” or “I feel like I don’t matter.”
You do matter! And you can – and must – speak up about dog training methods so we don’t set the clock back.