The Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) has released a new position statement on the use of dominance theory and wolf behavior models when training dogs.

The APDT Position Statement on Dominance and Dog Training reviews the resurgence in citing "dominance" as a factor in dog behavior and training.  Dominance among animals is widely misunderstood, such as when it is used to describe a personality trait of a particular dog. Dogs are not out to "dominate us" and this misunderstanding between dogs and humans causes some people to respond with force and aggression, creating an adversarial relationship filled with miscommunication and even anxiety, stress and fear in both dogs and humans.

The APDT's position is that physical or psychological intimidation hinders effective training and damages the relationship between humans and dogs. The APDT advocates training dogs with an emphasis on rewarding desired behaviors and discouraging undesirable behaviors using clear and consistent instructions and avoiding psychological and physical intimidation. Techniques that create a confrontational relationship between dogs and humans are both outdated and detrimental. Modern scientifically-based dog training emphasizes teamwork and a harmonious relationship between dogs and humans that fulfills both species' needs. Most of all, it should be a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

The APDT advocates training dogs with an emphasis on rewarding desired behaviors and discouraging undesirable behaviors using clear and consistent instructions and avoiding psychological and physical intimidation.

For the full text of the APDT Position Statement on Dominance and Dog Training, visit the APDT web site at http://www.apdt.com/about/ps/dominance.aspx.