10 Major No-Nos in Dog Training

In dog training, mastering proper training methods is essential, but avoiding incorrect practices is equally crucial. The following 10 “Don’ts” will help owners advance dog training more scientifically, preventing improper actions from undermining training effectiveness or damaging the trust between dog and owner.

1. Never use physical punishment to correct behavior during dog training

While some claim that hitting is necessary when dogs misbehave, it must be acknowledged that while punishment may temporarily stop the unwanted behavior, it fails to teach the dog why the action was wrong. In dog training, our approach should be guidance—helping the dog understand what is acceptable and what is not. Avoid hitting. Physical punishment only breeds fear-based obedience, not genuine understanding. Long-term reliance on punishment may trigger aggressive behavior in dogs, undermining the very purpose of training and damaging the bond between owner and pet.

2. Avoid casually calling your dog’s name during training

To a dog, its name is merely a command; it doesn’t understand what it “is called.” Once you choose a name, this command will accompany it for life—avoid changing it casually. During dog training, calling its name signals attention and focus, but don’t repeat the name endlessly— — what we need to repeat are training commands. For example, if you call its name to come and sit, and it doesn’t sit, repeat the “sit” command instead of repeating its name followed by “sit.” This helps the dog clearly distinguish the different meanings of ‘name’ and “command” during training.

3. Avoid arbitrarily changing established commands in dog training

Once a command is set in dog training, don’t change it casually, as this easily confuses the dog. “Sit” means “sit”—don’t say “sit” when you mean ‘sit’ and “sit down” when you mean “sit down.” The simplest commands are usually 1-2 words; once established, they should remain consistent. Frequent changes may necessitate repeated training for a single skill, severely impacting training efficiency and results.

4. Avoid having multiple family members give conflicting commands during dog training

Once a command is established, communicate clearly with family members before training begins: this command will have a fixed meaning going forward. Avoid using multiple different commands like “Come here,” “Come over here,” or “Come to me.” This confuses the dog and may require retraining commands that were previously well-learned. Family members must consistently use the same command—this is crucial for maintaining training continuity.

5. Avoid giving your dog opportunities to make mistakes during training

Dogs are opportunistic and may try to outsmart you. Therefore, transition gradually from leash training to off-leash training, eliminating chances for mistakes. Once a command is given, the dog must obey. If it makes a mistake, correct it immediately. Never ignore incorrect behavior, or previous training may be undone, trapping the dog training process in a cycle of constant readjustment.

6. Understand Canine Behavior Before Training

Before beginning dog training, grasp fundamental canine body language and barking cues—such as what tail wagging signifies or what a raised hindquarters signals. Mastering basic canine communication is essential: only by understanding them can we train them effectively. Since dogs primarily communicate through body language, mastering these cues is a prerequisite for owners before beginning any dog training.

7. Avoid Overreliance on Food in Dog Training

While treats are essential tools in dog training, excessive use can condition dogs to obey only when food is offered, creating a reflexive “no treat, no action” response. During training, dogs should develop the mindset that “food is a treat, but owner affection is also a reward.” This prevents them from forming a single-minded focus on “only performing actions for food rewards.” Moreover, food is just one motivator for obedience. In reality, anything the dog enjoys (like toys or praise) can serve as a reward, making dog training more flexible.

8. Don’t assume your dog has mastered a skill too quickly during training

In dog training, skills require constant reinforcement—avoid rushing progress. Training must proceed step by step. Even if a dog seems to understand a command at first, it may not execute it perfectly. Consistent practice is needed to solidify understanding and deepen retention. Only when a dog consistently obeys a command over 90% of the time indoors should you gradually transition to outdoor training. Never move outdoors before the dog is proficient—the distractions of the complex outdoor environment can easily cause skill regression, undermining training consistency.

9. Avoid placing excessive pressure on your dog during training

Dogs are not humans; they lack our level of intelligence. Even the smartest dogs possess an IQ equivalent to that of a 6-7-year-old child. Just as we humans need patience when educating children, this is even more crucial with dogs. Therefore, during dog training, if your dog struggles with a skill, avoid scolding or applying excessive pressure. Such approaches will only make them more resistant to cooperating with you. Always proceed step by step, gradually and progressively, giving your dog ample time to adapt and learn. This gradual approach is key to maintaining your dog’s enthusiasm during training.

10. Avoid making training feel like “training” to your dog

Dog training should occur when the dog is willing. The foundation for a dog’s willingness to train lies in the interaction between owner and dog—whether through play or food rewards, interaction is essential. Therefore, during training, owners should strive to make the dog perceive training as playtime with their owner, rather than a “task.” This approach encourages the dog to actively cooperate in performing the actions, transforming dog training into a fun and engaging interactive experience.