In dog training, an aversive is something used to discourage specific unwanted behaviors in dogs. It is something the dog finds unpleasant, usually involving a dog's senses. Some examples include shock collars, bitter apple spray and penny cans. The use of aversives with dogs is controversial topic. A lot of dog lovers consider some or all aversives inhumane (or unkind at the very least). Many others feel that the use of aversives can be highly affective in dog training.
Before you decide to use them, learn more about the use of aversives from dog trainer Amy Bender. How do you feel about it? Do you think aversives should be used in dog training? Are some better or worse than others? Or, does it just depend on the situation? Share your opinion.
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Comments
I have never used aversives or even raised my voice (except when she’s in danger) to train my dog Willo. She gladly does as I ask 95% of the time and has a wonderfully calm and outgoing manner. I also gladly do as she asks (I’d like to go out/come in, I’d like some food, etc.) 95% of the time. Male dogs may be more difficult. I’ve never raised a male.
I used to use aversives (bitter apple, training collars) but found that rewarding good behavior works better. It seems like, in some situations, the dogs can get past the uncomfortableness of whatever aversive is used but they don’t want to loose out on their treat. I have a dog who was very aggressive towards other dogs. Aversives didn’t help but giving her a treat when she sat quietly when another dog went by worked wonders! She hasn’t tried to attack another dog in months! That is something we thought we would never see.