Why is the AVSAB Position Statement on Humane Dog Training so important?

Download the full AVSAB Position Statement on Humane Dog Training in PDF here.

For the longest time, dog training is an unregulated wild west. Everyone can claim they are ‘experienced’ and trustworthy. Whilst there is still no consensus on the standard that all dog trainer professionals should uphold, the position statement by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) on dog training provides evidence-based guidelines that prioritise the welfare, safety, and effective education of dogs and their humans.

Here's why this document holds significance not just to the professional dog trainers, but also to all pet parents:

Published in 2021, the AVSAB made clear why only rewards based training is recommended over aversive or balanced training. It serves as an important resource to guide professionals and pet parents all over to recognise the need to pay attention to levels of stress and force we are subjecting our pets to in the name of training.

1. Emphasis on Science-Based Training

The AVSAB position statement advocates for training methods rooted in scientific research and learning theory. It highlights the importance of using positive reinforcement as the primary approach to modify behaviour, which aligns with how animals (and humans) learn effectively and humanely. 

All research papers referenced are also published in the footer of the PDF document.

2. Rejection of Punishment-Based Methods

The statement strongly discourages the use of punishment-based methods, including techniques involving physical corrections, intimidation, or aversive tools such as shock collars, prong collars, or choke chains. These methods can:

• Increase fear, anxiety, and aggression in dogs.

• Damage the human-animal bond.

• Lead to unintended negative consequences, such as suppressed behaviors that resurface later in dangerous ways.

Instead of fancy catch phrases and logic bending marketing speech used by people advocating for such techniques, the AVSAB shows exactly how using any punishment-based methods whether aversive or balanced, are harmful to our pets. There is no vested monetary or commercial interest in the organisation, as opposed to those who actively mislead the public in order to gain more clients.

3. Focus on Preventing Behavioural Issues

AVSAB emphasises the importance of early intervention and proactive training, such as puppy socialisation and teaching foundational skills. It stresses the value of addressing underlying emotional states rather than simply suppressing unwanted behaviors.

“Training methods are most effective when they focus on teaching the animal what to do, rather than punishing them for unwanted behaviors”—AVSAB Position Statement on Humane Dog Training, 2021

4. Ethical Responsibility & Improved Welfare for Dogs

The position calls on trainers, veterinarians, and dog owners to use humane and effective methods. This reflects the ethical responsibility to treat animals with respect and minimise stress during training.

Survey studies have shown an association between the use of aversive training methods and long-term behavior problems including aggressive behavior towards people and other dogs, and anxiety-related behaviors such as avoidance and excitability. Survey studies cannot differentiate between causation and correlation, so possible explanations for this association include:

1) aversive training methods directly cause or contribute to the development of problem behaviors; or

2) owners of dogs with problem behaviors are more likely to use aversive training tools.

Regardless of the explanation, this association shows that aversive training methods are not effective in eliminating problem behaviors: if they did, we would see the opposite trend of decreased behavior problems with increased use of aversive training.

—Excerpt from the AVSAB Position Statement on Humane Dog Training, 2021

Training approaches recommended by AVSAB are designed to:

• Build confidence in dogs.

• Reduce problematic behaviors without causing harm.

• Foster better communication between dogs and their humans.

Many methods of changing behavior in dogs are effective; however, the evidence-based veterinarian or behavior consultant should be concerned not just with what is effective but what does the least harm and produces the best long-term results.

—Excerpt from the AVSAB Position Statement on Humane Dog Training, 2021

5. Backed by Expert Consensus

Instead of anyone who says they’ve grown up with dogs, have a following on social media, or appeared on TV and are therefore credible enough to train dogs, AVSAB is a reputable organisation composed of veterinarians and behaviour experts. Their recommendations carry significant weight and reflect the latest knowledge in animal behaviour science. 

Practical Impact:

• Encourages the industry to shift toward reward-based training, fostering better long-term behavioural outcomes.

• Educates dog owners to avoid outdated or harmful training methods and helps them make informed decisions when selecting training services.

• Improves the overall well-being and relationship between dogs and their owners.

This position statement is a vital resource for promoting compassionate and effective training practices, ensuring dogs are treated with respect and understanding throughout their lives.

Trainers with backgrounds in higher-level education such as the Karen Pryor Academy and Jean Donaldson’s Academy for Dog Trainers, as well as involvement in organizations such as the Pet Professional Guild, International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, Victoria Stillwell’s Academy for Dog Training, and FearFree Certifications should be recommended whenever possible.

—Excerpt from the AVSAB Position Statement on Humane Dog Training, 2021

Find other AVSAB statements on the website here.