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We recently received an inquiry about the use of compulsion in our training program, so we decided to address it on our training page. This covers some of the most common reasons for using compulsion.Answer: Thank you for your question. To get straight to the point, we are not "clicker" purists. We feel that a balanced training style is best. We've seen benefits from either way of training (compulsion or clicker). Since all dogs are different, training will depend on what the dog needs and how the program is adjusted.
The truth about compulsion is, many humans do not really understand how, when or why they need to use it. For this reason they can not possibly be clear to the dog. In that situation it is simply not a fair training method. That is why we strongly believe a dog handler should train through positive reinforcement until the dog exhibits an absolute understanding of the task at hand.
Combining Compulsion training methods with Positive Reinforcement methods offers the greatest training advantage. Through "clicker training" the handler will gain a better feel for timing when rewarding the dog. As a result the handler will usually have better timing when and if compulsion is used to correct the dog. Remember timing is everything when teaching a dog and is even more important when training through compulsion.
Our priority during training is to use a high percentage of positive reinforcement to a much lower percentage of compulsion. If the dog requires regular use of compulsion, then there is an issue with the training or the dog. The training is either misunderstood by the dog or the dog may lack the desire for the work. Compulsion will be most clear to the dog once he has been taught how to perform an exercise through positive reinforcement and he is able to demonstrate that he completely understands the task.
Dog sports, such as Schutzhund and Ring Sport are about the ultimate control of a qualified dog. The dog and handler must be able to demonstrate this under pressure on trial day. It is truly an art to find the right balance while training for the sport. It is best to have a strategy to reach your goal and remember, success will come when you take time to be fair and understand the dog.
With that said if you are planning on titling a dog through club field trials you may be able to title a dog through pure, positive reinforcement...even during phase C, the protection phase. Just keep in mind that success will depend on the dog's level of drive and willingness to work. After all, anything is possible! As training methods evolve and as competitive obedience requires a "happier" picture over all, it is becoming easier to find Schutzhund clubs that train using balanced methods.
Compulsion is applied to dog training in a variety of ways. The most common uses are for punishment, control, force training and pressuring the dog. To read more about these train techniques click on the links below.
Compulsion Method Links
Punishment through Compulsion
Control through Compulsion
Force Training
Pressuring the Dog
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