Answer: Thank you for your question. To get straight to the point, we are not clicker purists and we do mention that on our clicker training page. However positive reinforcement is our primary motivator during training. All dogs are different. We've seen great things happen through either way of training (compulsion or clicker), but it depends on what the dog needs and how the program is balanced.

The truth is many humans do not know how to be clear to the dog while using compulsion and in that situation it is not fair. That is why we strongly believe a dog trainer should stick with positive reinforcement until they gain a clear understanding and feel for timing. Bad timing leaves everything to loose and nothing to gain!

When compulsion is used there should be a balance between positive reinforcement and compulsion depending on what the dog requires. Our preference is to use 2/3 positive and 1/3 compulsion or even 3/4 positive and 1/4 compulsion. If the dog requires more compulsion than the previous examples then for our own training program we are either not being clear to the dog or we are working with a dog that really does not have the desire or drive to do the work.

Let’s face it we are training working dogs, so we prefer to find ways to clearly communicate with the dog and to work with the dog that exhibits a strong willingness to work while using minimal force. Compulsion is most clear to the dog once he has been taught how to execute an exercise through positive reinforcement. Compulsion is used in a variety of ways. But  is most useful as a tool to remind the dog that the commanded exercise is not optional.

Remember 1/3 of Schutzhund is the protection phase. We are ultimately teaching the dog the highest level of control during his/her highest state of drive. It is very difficult to maintain a workable level of control without the use of compulsion. During training the dog is controlled through compulsion and then rewarded with a release. This teaches the dog to cap it's drive for greater ease of  handler management. Dog sports such as Schutzhund and Ring Sport are about the ultimate control of a qualified dog and whether or not the dog and handler are able to exhibit it on the trial field under pressure. The sport is like a dance...There always has to be a balance and the timing has to be right. Without it the handler looses respect and most important trust from the dog.