Balanced training methods are the foundation of any canine working team that is required to show solid results through reliable performances. The most essential training component of a balanced training style is a show of fair leadership through clear training methods. The use of positive reinforcement combined with a low rate of compulsion (once the dog knows his job and only if necessary) is an effective   combination of training methods for any dog.

Training will depend on a dog's willingness for performing tasks, which will vary greatly depending on a dog's inherent working drives and the methods being used. In general, dogs that show confidence, indurance and a strong desire for performing tasks, tend to show working drives that are genetic. They are usually easier to train; as long as, the training is fair, consistent and clear for the dog.

Where as, dogs that do not show an ideal level of confidence, indurance and desire for performing tasks, may be lacking in genetic working drives. They tend to show, what many trainers consider to be, resistance to training. However, if these dogs are motivated through fair, consistent and clear training methods, they will show greater willingness for commanded tasks.   

Often particular training methods are used and based on a dog's ability to learn and the level of desire, a dog shows for performing specific tasks. Dogs that show a latent learning style and low interest for performing commanded tasks often receive a higher rate of compulsion than necessary and/or justified. This is a typical situation; simply because, more effective ways to train may be unknown and/or forcing a dog to work is often the quickest and most effortless way to train a seemingly "uncooperative" dog.

The dog that objects to training is commonly misjudged and labeled the "difficult dog", "hard dog" or "lazy dog". When in fact, this dog may simply be exhibiting behaviors that indicate he or she may have a slow learning style, may not be interested in performing a specific task and/or may not be comfortable being under human control. This dog will typically show more interest and energetic behaviors towards performing commanded tasks, when he or she is motivated and allowed to learn through more of a problem solving process; such as, reward based training, rather than motivated and stressed through high compulsion training. Optimal performance is more likely to be observed, when a dog is trained though a balanced style that includes high rates of positive reinforcement to possibly low rates of compulsion (if necessary).

Although working with a, not so cooperative dog, is a common reason to use compulsion; the pressure method is often used for any type of dog and for many other reasons as well. Compulsion is often used at high rates, simply as a result of long time use of the methods and/or as a result of receiving outdated information. Popular misconceptions about using compulsion are; it makes a dog more reliable, it makes a dog stronger, a "hard dog" requires it, a dog is only a good working dog if he can handle the pressure, a dog must be obedient, and/or a dog should receive compulsion when he seems to tolerate it well. These are some of the most popular and unjustified reasons for using high rates of compulsion in any dog training program. Dogs often endure the inappropriate use of compulsion training; simply because, information regarding a  balanced training style and how fair training methods are structured and adjusted to benefit any dog are not always understood or available. 

The outcome for a dog that receives unfair compulsion training is usually not so great. The result is often a K-9 team that develops frustration with training and K-9 trials. Rather than the dog learning from the compulsion training and becoming an obedient training partner; there is a greater tendency for the dog to show confusion, mistrust and/or frustration with the handler and the work. As a result, the dog has a tendency to show objection to training rather than learn from it. The dog often shows resistance by either "shutting down" (stops working altogether) and/or by fighting the handler, rather than learn from the compulsion training. Disobedience and/or anxiety are often exhibited during training and K-9 trials, rather than the high level confident and obedient behavior that is expected from a dog that is well trained to be a  reliable working partner.

In the past, it seemed logical to use a high rate of compulsion to ensure reliability and greater respect when training the working dog. However, it is not necessary or recommended. Although this dog is seemingly resistant to training; greater willingness towards the work and improved performance that is reliable will be shown when the handler clearly shows the dog, what is expected, through a clear and balanced training style, versus an unfair and/or over use of compulsion training.

All dogs, as well as humans learn best and show greater reliability when taught through clear and balanced training methods. The basic principals of clear dog training methods are as follows: Motivate to perform the task, Clearly Define the Task, Give Feed Back, and Train Repeatedly. motivation (praise, food, toys and possibly compulsion that is fair and only if necessary. The trainer must clearly define tasks for the dog. The dog must receive feed back from the trainer as an indication of how he or she is performing. Finally, for a dog to perform a task confidently and reliably, the dog and handler must train repeatedly. 

Balanced training methods have replaced the out dated and harsh training methods of the old days. Improved methods have been developed to help handlers understand what all dogs really need to be successful. Balanced training methods that incorporate a high level of positive reinforcement and basic training principals are an optimum teaching style for any dog or human, required to perform reliably in any type of sport or work being performed.

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For more information about balanced training, Please click on this PDF article about police and military dog trainers showing success and reliability by training through positive reinforcement!

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