Veterinary Behavior Group Speaks Out Against Dominance-Based Training
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior released a position statement against the use of dominance theory in behavior modification of animals. The lengthy statement provides good scientifically based talking points you can use if/when you find yourself in a discussion with someone who believes in methods like those espoused by people, who we will NOT name.
Among its recommendations:
“The AVSAB recommends that veterinarians not refer clients to trainers or behavior consultants who coach and advocate dominance hierarchy theory and the subsequent confrontational training that follows.”
The link above also includes serious debunking of myths regarding wolf and dog behavior.
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I also want to point out this great graphic created by Dr. Susan Friedman that shows the Hierarchy of Humane Behavior Practices. Anna Bettina (who tweets as @HappyHealthyPup) posted it in her blog by the same name — Happy Healthy Pup.
I hope she’ll start blogging more because she has great ideas, but for now, I’ll just have to be jealous of her great blog template graphics. I wish ours was that pretty.