As the Good Dog Revolution takes hold, more pet parents are embracing ethical, reward-based training methods for their pups. At WAGD, we believe that all dogs are good dogs—and that with the right training, built on trust and kindness, they can truly thrive.
But there are still a lot of myths floating around about ethical training, and we’re here to set the record straight. Let’s debunk five common myths that might be holding you back from trying this approach with your bestie.
1. Myth: Reward-Based Training Spoils Your Dog
One of the most persistent myths is that rewarding your dog for good behaviour will spoil them or make them demand treats all the time. This couldn’t be further from the truth! Reward-based training doesn’t mean showering your dog with endless treats for no reason. It’s about using positive reinforcement—to increase the behaviours you want to see.
Ethical training teaches your dog to work for things they love, which actually encourages more reliable behaviour. So no, you won’t create a treat monster.
Tip from WAGD: Our Squeakster tug toy can be used to keep your dog engaged and motivated during training sessions.
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2. Myth: You Have to Be "Alpha" to Control Your Dog
This outdated myth is based on the notion that dogs need a "pack leader" and that you must assert dominance over them to gain control. It’s time to leave this myth in the past! Modern dog training is rooted in science, and it shows that dogs respond far better to trust, respect, and positive reinforcement than they do to fear or intimidation.
Your dog doesn’t need an alpha—they need a consistent, kind lteam mate who can guide them with clear cues and rewards for good behaviour. Trust us, being “alpha” won’t win you any brownie points with your pup, but earning their trust will!
Pro Tip: Our training leads are designed to help you guide your dog gently, giving you control without needing to be the “boss.”
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3. Myth: Ethical Training Doesn’t Work for “Stubborn” Dogs
Some breeds, or even individual dogs, are labeled as stubborn or difficult to train. But here’s the truth: all dogs, no matter their breed or personality, respond to positive reinforcement. If a dog isn’t responding well, it’s usually because they don’t fully understand what’s being asked of them, not because they’re being willfully stubborn.
By using ethical training methods that focus on rewarding the right behaviours, you’re teaching your dog in a way that makes sense to them. With a bit of patience, any dog can learn new behaviours—without the need for harsh corrections.
At WAGD, we know that all dogs are good dogs, and that includes the so-called “stubborn” ones. Stick with it, and you’ll be amazed at what your dog can achieve!
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4. Myth: You Can’t Train a Rescue Dog with Ethical Methods**
There’s a misconception that rescue dogs, especially those with difficult pasts, need stricter training to “undo” their previous behaviour issues. In reality, this is just not true.
Training a rescue dog with positive reinforcement helps build a strong, loving bond that can bring them out of their shell and set them up for success. Rather than focusing on punishment for bad behaviour, reward-based training teaches rescue dogs what’s expected of them in a gentle, encouraging way.
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5. Myth: Ethical Training Takes Too Long
We get it—when your dog is chewing up the furniture or dragging you down the street on walks, you want results fast. But here’s the thing: while ethical training may take a bit longer upfront compared to harsh, punishment-based methods, the results are much more reliable and long-lasting.
Reward-based training builds a solid foundation of trust and understanding, which means your dog is more likely to remember the behaviours you’ve taught them. Quick fixes often result in short-term solutions, but with positive reinforcement, you’re setting your dog up for success over the long haul.
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Join the Good Dog Revolution!
Here at WAGD, we believe that all dogs are good dogs, and that’s why we’re so passionate about ethical training methods. It’s not about teaching your dog to sit or stay—it’s about building a strong bond of trust and understanding between you and your pup. Reward-based training can work for any dog. And as always, we’ve got the kit to help you along the way!
Ready to start training the WAGD way? Check out our collection of training leads, collars, and toys to make your ethical training journey a success.
At WAGD, we’re more than just a brand—we’re a movement. Let’s train our dogs with love, respect, and a whole lot of rewards. Good Sht for Good Dogs—because they all deserve it!*