Is punishment effective during a house training procedure?
For successful house training to take place the use of any form of punishment should be avoided in all instances and the only exception i.e. might include successfully catching the dog in the act of inappropriate elimination. In this instance the effective use of an interrupting cue could be an effective deterrent, such as a loud startling noise i.e. hand clap or sharp tone of voice. The use of an interrupting cue or “inhibitory stimulation should be sufficient to disrupt urination momentarily” but avoid making it too fearful or cause the dog to run away. It is then important to immediately remove the dog outside to the appropriate location. During this change of location it is important the owner shift their voice and mannerism to one of positive mood that not only will encourage the dog to eliminate in the right location but to restore the dogs feeling of safety and well being. An important part of any training program is providing clear consequences for our dog’s behavior. This incl
