13. Dog Training Methods Explained: Which Approach Is Right For You?

You're about to get a puppy. You've started researching training methods. Now you're overwhelmed and confused.

One trainer says positive reinforcement only. Another talks about structure and boundaries. Your neighbour swears by a completely different approach.

Who's right?

The Truth About Dog Training Methods

Here's what nobody tells you: there isn't one "best" method that works for everyone.

If there were, the debate would be over. Dog behaviour would be gradually improving across the board. Instead, we're seeing the opposite.

Different methods work for different dogs, different owners, and different situations.

What We Absolutely Don't Support

Before we go further, let's be crystal clear about one thing.

At The Toe Beans Co, we completely disagree with any method that uses fear, force, or aggression. Any tools that follow this approach are unethical and don't bring long-term benefits.

This has mostly been removed from modern dog training, but it still exists in some places.

We will never recommend, provide advice on, or answer questions about this type of training. If you're looking to raise your dog like this, we're not the company for you.

Why Dog Training Is Like Raising Children

Dog training methods aren't static. They evolve.

Dog behaviourism usually lags changes to human society by 10-20 years.

Think about how children were raised in the 1950s versus now. Methods that were considered fine back then would be unacceptable by modern standards.

The same applies to dogs. We were doing the best with the information available at the time. As new research emerges, methods improve.

Dog training "science" is fluid, like all science.

The Four Modern Training Approaches

There are four broad schools of thought that exist on the no fear, no force, no aggression side of the spectrum.

1. Empathic Trainers

Core traits: relationship-focused, emotional connection, consent-based, less emphasis on drills.

Example trainers: Sarah Stremming, Kathy Kawalec, Suzanne Clothier.

Core approach: emotional attunement, consent, relationship building.

2. Pragmatic Positive Trainers

Core traits: use positive reinforcement as foundation but adapt fluidly, practical, goal-oriented.

Example trainers: Zak George, Kikopup,

Core approach: adaptable positive reinforcement.

3. Relational Leadership

Core traits: relationship-driven but uses structure and boundaries to create safety and trust.

Example trainers: The Online Dog Trainer. The Good Dog,

Core approach: structured love, calm leadership.

4. Scientific Conditioners

Core traits: operant conditioning purists, rely on shaping, markers, reinforcement schedules, data-driven.

Example trainers: Karen Pryor Academy, Susan Garrett, Denise Fenzi, Jean Donaldson.

Core approach: operant precision, shaping, reinforcement schedules.

Not sure which approach suits your personality and goals? Our community has owners using all four methods who can share their experiences. You'll also find resources to help you understand which philosophy aligns with your values.

Why The Dog Training Community Can Be Unpleasant

Here's something you should know before you dive into online dog training groups.

The dog training community can be an unpleasant place.

There are lots of people who believe their method is the only way to train a dog. That anyone not doing it their way is an idiot.

Our view is pragmatic. If you follow an ethical approach that gets the results you're looking for, great.

We all love dogs. That's why we're here. But passion sometimes creates unnecessary conflict.

The Most Important Rule

Any method done consistently is better than any other method done inconsistently.

The best training method is the one you'll actually stick with.

Don't choose an approach because it sounds impressive or because some famous trainer uses it. Choose the one that makes sense to you, that you can implement daily, that aligns with your values.

Our Approach

Members of The Toe Beans Co team have qualified through The Online Dog Trainer. This is a relational leadership approach.

But that doesn't mean it's the only approach we respect or recommend. We recognise that different methods work for different people.

What matters is that you're using an ethical, pain-free, force-free method consistently.

Get Ongoing Support For Your Puppy Journey

Understanding training philosophies is just the beginning. Having support as you implement your chosen method and troubleshoot challenges makes all the difference.

That's why we created our free Skool community - to give you continuous support every step of the way.

Inside the community, you'll get:

• Weekly live Q&A sessions where you can ask about YOUR specific training challenges regardless of method
• Complete puppy courses covering multiple approaches to common problems
• A supportive community of owners using different methods who can share what works
• Training philosophy resources to help you choose your approach
• Troubleshooting help when your chosen method isn't working as expected
• Updated resources as training science evolves

Best part? It's completely free. No subscription. No catch. Just dog owners helping dog owners.

Join The Toe Beans Co community today and get the ongoing support you need to train your puppy using an ethical method that actually works for you.