07/07/2025
Desperation:
When were desperate, we tend not to think straight, we just need a solution.
The other week I had a leak in my house, so on the phone I went and phoned plumber after plumber and I would have picked badly, thankfully I stopped and thought.
I decided to research and checked whoever I was selecting had 'Gas Safe' symbol to make sure who I got was right.
Bingo: booked an amazing gas engineer came, they fixed my leak and now coming back for when my boiler needs serviced. Phew.
🐕🐕🐕🐕🐕🐕🐕🐕🐕🐕
Dog Training World is just not that easy.
There are all sorts of acronym, organising. Others stating they are No1 or premier service and the likes.
What is true /false 🤔
When we have a problem with out dogs sometimes we feel desperate, smart thinking goes out the window. Do we go for what looks good on their social media, say all the right things to keep you sweet. Price (cheap/expensive) not all the expensive trainers are the best.
(I notice trainers who use aversive techniques or lack the knowledge, charge more) weirdly! So watch out for the con!
Here are the key reasons why people still send their dogs to trainers who use force, punishment, or aversive methods:
1. Lack of experience or knowledge
Many dog owners simply don’t know there are better, science-based, force-free methods available. They may not realise that punishment-based training can cause fear, anxiety, and long-term behavioral problems.
2. Cultural Traditions
Some people grow up believing dominance-based theories (like the outdated "pack leader" or "alpha" model) that have been debunked but are still widely promoted in popular media.
3. Influence of TV Personalities/Social Media
TV shows featuring celebrity trainers who use forceful methods have had a big cultural impact. People often trust what they see on TV, especially if it's presented with confidence and dramatic results.
4. Quick Fix Mentality IMPORTANT do not fall for this.
Punishment can sometimes suppress unwanted behaviors quickly, which can make it seem like the training "works" even though it often doesn't address the underlying issue and can cause other problems.
5. Desperation
When people are dealing with serious behavioral issues, especially aggression, they may feel out of options and turn to the first trainer who promises results—without fully investigating their methods.
6. Poor Regulation of the Industry
In UK anyone can call themselves a dog trainer without certification or oversight. This makes it easy for aversive trainers to market themselves as professionals, even if they use harmful methods.
7. Misleading Terminology
Some trainers who use force, label themselves as "balanced" or "relationship-based" without clearly stating they use tools like choke chains, prong collars, or e-collars. This can mislead well-intentioned dog owners.
The words they use can determine if they following the Force Free ethics or Balance.
Who are you going to pick?
Below is the label you should look for. Its like that 'Gas Safe' symbol.
No need to be desperate, be patient to get the right person.
