American Humane Association's Guide to Humane Dog Training Released

American Humane Association
Thursday, 6 September 2001

The American Humane Association today released its "Guide to Humane Dog Training." The manual introduces dog owners to the use of positive reinforcement in training, a highly effective method that rejects the use of force and strong punishment. AHA, a national animal and child protection non-profit organization, developed the guide as a resource for pet owners training their own dogs and to help people select a dog trainer.

"It's unfortunate that a common perception about training is you have to use force and punishment to teach your dog to obey," said Connie Howard, AHA's Director of Shelter Services. "That antiquated concept may lead to your dog obeying, but only obeying out of fear. That's not healthy for your dog and it's not healthy for your relationship with your dog. To truly create a strong and lasting bond with your pet, the American Humane Association urges that dog owners seek out those trainers who use methods described in this new guide."

"Guide to Humane Dog Training" includes sections on: dog behavior; how a dog learns; training a dog; tools and equipment; and choosing a humane dog trainer. Howard stressed by focusing on the dog's pleasure as a motivation for obeying, trust will be built between a pet and owner. This leads to a greater willingness on the dog's part to learn new behaviors and creates a foundation for a stronger and life-long bond of affection and respect.

"Behavior problems continue to be a top reason people give their dogs up to animal shelters. Many of these problems can be solved through working with a good trainer. 'Guide To Humane Dog Training' is an excellent resource to help people build a life-long relationship with their pet. It will not only help them select a trainer using humane methods, it will help them better understand their dog and the training process," Howard concluded.

Copies are available from the American Humane Association for $15. For more information on how to purchase a copy, log on to www.americanhumane.org or call Donor/Member Services at (800) 227-4645. Media wishing free copies of the guide can contact Jack Sparks at (303) 925-9453. The guide is based, in part, on content created by members of a national working committee of dog trainers and animal professionals convened by AHA with funding from the Delta Society.

For more information, or to contact American Humane Association, see their website at: www.americanhumane.org