Niki, and most everyone on both sides of the training divide, for that matter, agree that using the dominance theory to train dogs is now considered to be outdated and obsolete. There is current scientific knowledge that recants the findings of previous studies that promoted the implementation of alpha rolls and so- called dominance training. “The preponderance of the evidence
shown by current research indicates that the implementation of training and/or behavior modification protocols predicat- ed upon “dominance theory” and social structures (“alpha,” or “pack leader”), and/or the implementation of physical or psychological intimidation, threats, coer- cion, or fear are empirically less effective and risk creating problematic conse- quences, including “fallout” behaviors that may be dangerous to the human and ani- mal involved such as growling, snapping and biting.” (from the aforementioned book, co-authored by Niki.) Niki’s recipe for training is simple,
really. First, establish a realistic behavior you want from the dog. Know what the dog loves to live for –– treats, praise, toys –– and be consistent. Then, practice that behavior in different scenarios. What happens if the dog doesn’t want
to work? How will the trainer obtain the desired results if the dog is not listening? Those are good questions to ask of
any trainer if what they’re doing is not gaining the desired results. In positive rein- forcement training, when a dog has not responded favorably after every tool in the two-quadrant tool kit has been utilized, Niki suggests an animal behaviorist should be considered. “At that point, we have to consider
that there is a chemical imbalance in the brain of the dog. The use of pharmaceuti- cals may be considered. Oftentimes, those meds are the bridge that is needed, and they’re also very affordable. If the meds don’t work, then a shock collar is most certainly not going to work either.” [It is important to understand that
abnormal behavior from a dog is much different than unwanted behavior. You’ll want to talk to your veterinarian and trainer about the differences.] Any tool can be aversive if it is not
used for the purpose for which it was designed. Niki considers the use of shock
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collars a quick fix that won’t have lasting results. She emphasizes, however, that there is no place in the pet industry to judge pet
owners.The products are readily available to the consumer to purchase over the counter or online without instructions on how to safely use them. “Pet owners are doing what they believe to be the best for their dogs,” said Niki. Samantha Triplett, CMT is the
founder and owner of STK9 Training Company, St. Petersburg. She began training at 15, shadowing a trainer at her parent’s business, Pasadena Pet Motel Boarding and Daycare. From there, Samantha began shadowing dog trainers at Tampa Bay Area dog training clubs. She attended the University of South Florida, double majoring in criminology and political science. Wanting to go further into the field of training dogs, she enrolled at Tarheel Canine Training, Inc. in North Carolina, and received her Master Training Certification. STK9 Training Company does a lot
of work training dogs for personal protec- tion and work for law enforcement. They also work with rescue dogs that are in need of major rehabilitation. “Science-based training is any form of training that has theory behind it,”
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Samantha said. “Both positive and nega- tive reinforcement can be science-based training. In my own personal opinion, if only two of the four quadrants in training are used, you’re limiting the results. Fit the training with the dog, which can only come after observation and assessment.”
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