The Down Side of 'Whispering'

There has been a lot of attention given to a certain TV personality and his self described “dog training methods”- commonly referred to as ‘dog whispering’. Many professional organizations concerned with the welfare of our canine companions have publically decried these types of methods. Included among these are The Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors, the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior, the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and numerous prominent biologists, animal behaviorists and researchers.

Unfortunately, this type of ‘dog whispering’ is based upon erroneous myths about dominance and aggression. More unfortunate is the current propagation of these myths by said TV personality and the captive audience he inspires. Our dogs needn’t be and should not be controlled by intimidation and fear. I personally want my canine companions to be just that- companions. So, I choose to train rather than control. I choose to use methods that strengthen the relationship I have with my dogs. I choose methods that are humane and safe for both dogs and people.

Don Hanson and Green Acres Kennel Shop in Bangor, Maine have recently released a Position Statement On the Use of Dominance and Punishment for the Training and Behavior Modification of Dogs. Don is a gifted dog trainer and behaviorist. He has been an active member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and has served on its Board for a number of years. Don is also a very fine writer, providing clarity where there was once fog. For anyone who is still convinced ‘dog whispering’ has merit The Green Acres Position Statement is required reading. For myself, Don’s Position Statement puts into words all that Peaceful Pack Dog Training and I believe in. I would like to thank Don and all of the folks at Green Acres for the groundbreaking work they have done and shall continue to do.

The Position Statement may be found here:
http://www.greenacreskennel.com/pages/Articles/ART_Position_Dominance_Punishment.html

Also of interest is Don’s article addressing the Myth of Dominance, which may be found here:
http://www.greenacreskennel.com/pages/Articles/ART_Dominance.html