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12963 Views 88 Replies 19 Participants Last post by  ZoesMom, 
BullyGirl80
I think that because of CM lots of people confuse assertive training with fear and abuse...they couldn't be more wrong. Unfortunately some people think that if you're not always talking clickers and treats, than you're and abuser, which is also wrong. I use which ever method gets the reaction that I'm looking for with a dog...With my shi tzu treats work great, as with a lot of small dogs, she is slightly timid so there is no need for me to assert myself over her, however with my bulldog I use a more assertive approach because with a dog of her size and strength I have NO room for error. I have to be 100% certain that I am in control of her in public places, and when she is really excited and worked up, she could care less about a treat.
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crock
I am curious just what Bully Girl means by assertive.

She asked why CM was brought up and I prrsume it is because it is in her first post and because she has referenced in other threads that she feels his approach is appropriate sometimes.
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crock
Thank you. Of course, that's still a little vague--ie what are your actions that define you being "firm?" Mostly, I'm curious as to why, when we had been recommending PR resources in the thread this was split from, you posted the first post then. Being firm and confident is not mutually exclusive of PR. PR does not mean we don't have rules, lack confidence, are wishy-washy, are permissive, etc. So when you bring up assertiveness, it's apples to oranges. Unless by your "firm" you mean you follow up with positive punishment...the "or else." Then it's just easier to be on the same page if you use that terminology.

I think you have some gross misconceptions of positive reinforcement training. Using rewards is not using bribes. Not all rewards are food. Certain breeds don't take heavier hands. You don't give one reward per one action for a dog's whole life. etc.

Fwiw, the majority of dogs I work with at the shelter are bully breeds and I use PR and NP with them exclusively and successfully. I don't need to be any more "assertive" with them than any other breed. PR works beautifully to help them overcome their reactivity and lack of impulse control....

I would encourage you to read these:
15 Must Read Dog Training Articles — The Crossover Trainer's BlogThe Crossover Trainer's Blog
dogs+ethics (new one to me but really on point)
Treat Training Trinity – Why positive reinforcement did not work for my dog. | awesomedogs
A Surprising Look at Balanced Training - Smart Dog University
Peaceable Paws
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crock
I'm sorry but how on earth did my post imply that? I can certainly explain how a no would be intimidating, but I didn't even get near that subject in what you quoted of me.
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crock
Aggression begets aggression. So no, I do not think that some dogs are so dangerous that I must stop using psoitive reinforcement and start using positive punishment. At best, it will supress the behavior temporarily and do nothjng to solve the underlying issue. At worst, there will be all sorts of fall out.
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