Training Philosophy

Being a good trainer boils down to two things: communicating well, and convincing your dog to want to work with you.

The following information should help you begin to think about the training approach that is best for you and your dog. You should also talk to your instructor about your chosen method and any equipment you will need.

Positive Motivational Training

The Armidale Dog Training Club recommends the use of postitive motivational training. This is not just a matter of preference. Scientific research shows that it is the most effective method for animal learning. Animals (and that includes humans) learn faster and retain more readily when taught using positive reinforcement. While many dogs have been trained by traditional "jerk and praise" methods in the past (the use of a check/slip/choker collar for corrections, combined with praise as a reward) these methods do not conform to "best practice" in animal learning, and they cannot be used on timid or aggressive dogs, without a high probability of causing further temperament damage. Motivational training does not mean that you let your dog do anything it wants-on the contrary, setting and communicating clear and consistent boundaries is vitally important for establishing a good relationship with your dog.

Best Practice in Animal Learning

Motivational training is the preferred method of the RSPCA, the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, and the Obedience and Tracking Sub-Committee of the Royal New South Wales Canine Council. The Canine Council has recently updated its Obedience Instructor's Manual (2002) so that it its intructor training is now based on sound scientific research in the field of animal learning.

"Positive Motivation is the best method for changing behaviour" (Dr Patricia McConell, Certified Animal Behaviourist, internationally acclaimed lecturer, and author of The Other End of the Leash)

Motivational training is by far the best method for pet dogs, in that it will not create side effects, such as learned helplessness, anxiety or aggression. As primarily pet dog trainers (as opposed to those who are primarily interested in winning in the competition ring) we are first and foremost interested in good temperament. We don't want to use methods that might make our dogs fearful, mistrusting of humans or other dogs, or that research shows can exacerbate or even cause aggression.

Can I use other methods at the Club?

Yes you may. While the ADTC's Obedience and Agility Sub-Commitees recommend positive training methods, we do not exclude anyone from our classes.

We realize that some people have learned in the past by other methods and are more comfortable with these, or that they prefer a different kind of relationship with their dogs. As long as you are training humanely, we will direct you to a Club Member who can provide advice to help you use your chosen training practices effectively. While our Obedience levels 1-3 emphasize positive training philosophy, instructors can advise you on the use of the slip collar and timing of corrections if you are committed to these tools. Once you reach Level 4 (trial preparation), we can stream you to a class which will emphasize either (1) positive training philosophy or (2) hybrid training practices in which both corrections and rewards are used in a ring-craft setting.