Choosing the Right Path: My Guide to Modern Dog Training Methods

There are so many methods of training today, it can make deciding what is right for you and your dog feel a bit overwhelming.

The first step is understanding what all the titles and verbiage really mean. I consider myself a positive reward/force-free trainer, but I also rely heavily on relationships that are centered around communication. So I will start by saying that I am a bit biased 😊 Learning to communicate and connect with your dog, in my opinion, helps everything else fall into place and is where I like to begin.

Why is Communication More Important Than Equipment?

To make things even more overwhelming, there are a gazillion different types of training equipment out there. I won’t spend too much time on this right now, but it’s something to think about… if you are relying on equipment alone, your dog isn’t truly learning the behavior. What happens if that equipment isn’t there? Equipment can be a helpful management tool while you are building communication and reliability, but the goal is always for your dog to understand the behavior—not just respond to the tool.

Let’s break it down…

What Does Positive Reinforcement or "Force-Free" Mean?

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Focuses on: rewarding behaviors you would like to see repeated

• Uses: rewards (food, play, praise)

• Builds: communication and trust

• Encourages: problem-solving and engagement

• Gives clear information about what to do instead of only focusing on what not to do

• Helps create positive associations with people, environments, and experiences

• Works with the dog’s emotional state, not against it

• Often breaks behaviors into small, achievable steps

• Rewards effort and progress along the way

• Gives your dog choice and autonomy

• Focuses on setting dogs up for success

We are, of course, helping guide them toward the choices we are going for (😊), but at the end of the day, they are still making a choice—and that’s where true learning happens.

The Balanced Training Method

This one can feel a bit misleading, as “balanced” sounds so nice… in reality, it simply means that both reinforcement and punishment are used.

• Uses: both reinforcement + punishment

• Tools may include:

• Prong collars, e-collars, leash corrections

• Philosophy: “use what works” (both sides of the learning spectrum)

  
  

Coaching vs Training…maybe both?

In recent years, there has been a growing shift toward a coaching or relationship-based approach in dog training. I love many pieces of this mindset — especially the focus on communication, emotional well-being, and understanding the dog in front of us.

That said, I also think it’s important to remember that relationship alone isn’t enough. Our dogs still need guidance, structure, safety skills, and clear communication to help them successfully navigate the human world.

How is Punishment Defined?

In behavioral science, the word punishment simply refers to something that decreases a behavior. This doesn’t always mean harsh corrections — sometimes it can be as simple as removing attention when a puppy gets too mouthy. Dogs are constantly learning from consequences, whether intentional or not.

What Should You Know About Aversive-Based Training?

Thankfully, this approach is not very common anymore.

• Uses: Pain, discomfort, intimidation, or fear to change behavior

This is one area where I will be very honest—I personally do not agree with this approach. I would never want a relationship with my dog that is based on fear or intimidation. My goal is always to build trust, understanding, and a willingness to engage, not avoidance.

What Do All Those Certification Letters Actually Mean?

You may have noticed that some trainers have letters after their name—things like CPDT-KA or KPA. It can feel a bit confusing, so here’s a simple breakdown:

• CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed)

This means the trainer has passed an exam covering learning theory, training skills, and has hands-on experience.

• KPA-CTP (Karen Pryor Academy – Certified Training Partner)

This certification focuses heavily on positive reinforcement and strong training mechanics.

Is Dog Training a Regulated Industry?

Here’s something that surprises a lot of people—dog training is not a regulated industry. That means anyone can call themselves a trainer, with or without formal education.

That doesn’t automatically mean a non-certified trainer isn’t good, but certifications can give you a little extra reassurance that someone has invested time in learning, education, and continuing their knowledge.

How Can You Find a Qualified Trainer for Your Dog?

If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few things to look for:

• Transparency in methods (they should be happy to explain what they do and why)

• A focus on your dog’s comfort and emotional well-being

• Clear communication (you should feel supported and understood too!)

• Certifications can be a bonus, but how they teach and communicate matters just as much

Finding the right fit is important for both you and your dog. You should feel comfortable and relaxed around your trainer so you can enjoy the process, ask questions, and truly feel at ease. Your pup should feel this way too and be given the space to decide how they want to interact with this new person. Noticing those subtle cues and meeting your dog where they are helps everything come together naturally, without pressure and at their pace.

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~ Jill Kudera

CPDT-KA Certified Professional Dog Trainer

Licensed and Insured

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Canine and Feline CPR and First Aid Certified