Training Your Dog with Aversives: What You Need to Know

Have you recently brought home a pup that needs some training? No matter what breed or size of dog you get, you need to take responsibility and train them to behave so they can acclimate to society comfortably. Dogs are brilliant creatures, capable of learning and changing their own behavior. And while treats are an excellent way to reward them for good behavior, they need a counter to help them learn what not to do. That is what aversives are for. 

What Are Aversives?

In dog training, an aversive is something that stops a dog's unwanted behavior. It is something that makes them uncomfortable, like a sound or taste that repels them. Some are considered inhumane than others. For example, shock collars are deemed cruel. 

Spray repellents may be better. If your dog has the nasty habit of chewing on shoes or surfaces, these sprays can prevent them from gnawing on your precious property. These aren’t poisonous, just unappetizing. 

Training Your Dog with Aversives: What Not to Do

Don’t Use them to Build Aggression

When training your dog with aversives, it is important not to handle aggression carefully. Dogs can be aggressive when they feel threatened, are in a playful mood, or have been spoiled and are not used to disciplinary action. Use aversives to correct the behavior, not as retribution for something bad they did recently. 

Don’t Overuse Them

Do not be over-reliant on this method. While they do need to learn, it is not good to keep punishing them, especially if the situation is not difficult enough or can be easily forgiven. 

We live in the modern world. Dogs must be treated as the friends and companions they are. All they want is to give and receive affection from their owner. Let them go a little crazy and release their energy in every way they can (that doesn’t damage the furniture). 

In other words, let dogs be dogs. You can’t overdo it to the point where they fear being around you.

Don’t Use Them on Fearful Dogs

If you adopted your dog from the pound or rescue center, they might come from traumatizing homes or situations. If your dog is an old trooper that needs comfort more than training, pack away your aversives. These dogs need extra love and attention, so if your dog displays any of these signs, skip the training. 

Conclusion

Dog training is quite a difficult process, especially if your pup is particularly precocious. The important thing to note is that it often takes a while before any pet can become well-behaved, so you will need a lot of patience regardless of the aversive you choose. Just remember to never cross the line between being a responsible pet owner and an abusive master.    

If you’re looking for good-quality pet supplies in Bentonville, then visit Earthwise Pet Supply and Grooming for the best treats, toys, and training equipment for cats and dogs. We offer spray aversives for training cats and dogs in our shop. Visit us today!