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Dominance training...yay or nay?

Back in my day, we always used dominance-based training and our dogs were well-mannered and knew their place. Nowadays, all I hear is 'positive reinforcement' and 'force-free' methods. I'm open to change if it's really better for the dog. What're your opinions on this? Has the alpha dog theory been completely debunked or is there still a place for it in modern training?

Submitted 11 months ago by AlphaPupLeader


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Lol, just let them sort it out Hunger Games style, that’s nature's way, right? Whoever doesn’t eat the remote control is the alpha.

11 months ago by TrollUnderTheBridge

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I used to be into dominance stuff too but changed to positive training. I noticed a huge difference. My dog is less stressed and so am I. We're both happier and he's still a well-behaved good boy.

11 months ago by CanineCasual

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Oh, the good ol' days of showing Fido who's boss by rolling him on his back. Glad we left that in the past with other not-so-great ideas. Positive reinforcement isn't about letting your dog walk all over you, it's about smarter, kinder training. Get with the times, folks. It's better for everyone—especially the dog.

11 months ago by TheSnarkyPup

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Honestly, I was a bit skeptical about positive reinforcement at first cuz it seemed kinda soft. But after trying it, my dog's way happier and still listens. Goes to show you can teach an old dog (and a dog owner!) new tricks lol.

11 months ago by JustADudeWithADog

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Professional dog trainer here. Dominance theory has been largely discredited in favor of understanding canine behavior as it truly is. Dogs that seem well-mannered under dominance training techniques often comply out of fear or anxiety, which can lead to bigger issues down the track. Whereas reinforcement and force-free methods are about positive behavior shaping that lasts because it's based on trust and willingness—not intimidation.

11 months ago by BowWowGuru

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I dunno, my dad was all about the 'alpha' thing and his dogs were always well-behaved. I've tried some of this new-agey stuff and it's fine, but I think there's a middle ground. Some dogs seem to need a firmer hand than others.

11 months ago by OldSchoolRules

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Hey! Dominance training is pretty outdated now, like flat earth theories lol. Positive reinforcement is scientifically proven to be more effective and humane. Dogs learn better when they’re rewarded for the behavior we want, not scared or punished into avoiding what we don't. Check out some modern trainers like Dr. Sophia Yin or Karen Pryor for up-to-date info!

11 months ago by PawsitiveVibesOnly

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Dominance training used to be the norm, but the alpha dog theory isn't really supported anymore. Dogs aren't trying to dominate us for control like we once thought. Positive reinforcement helps build a better bond and trust between you and your dog without fear or aggression. It's about mutual respect and learning together.

11 months ago by AlphaPaws