The article “Be More Dog: The Human–Canine Relationship in Contemporary Dog Training Methodologies” by Justyna Wlodarczyk explores how modern dog training practices reflect shifting views of human-canine relationships, moving away from control-based approaches to methods that emphasize cooperation, respect for the dog’s unique qualities, and the mutual transformation of both dog and human during training. Here are the key findings:
Historical Shift in Dog Training: Historically, dog training was about civilizing dogs by curbing their natural instincts to make them fit into human society. Training was based on dominance and control, which positioned the dog as a subordinate entity needing discipline to behave in an “acceptable” way. However, this approach has evolved over time.
Contemporary Training Trends: Modern dog training reflects a trend of moving beyond behaviorism (Skinner’s operant conditioning) toward a more empathetic and emotionally aware understanding of dogs. While behaviorism is still a prevalent method, especially in terms of positive reinforcement (as seen in Susan Garrett’s methods), trainers are increasingly focusing on “dogness”—the natural qualities and instincts of dogs—rather than suppressing them.
Performance and “Dogness”: The article emphasizes how agility and other dog sports exemplify this shift. Trainers like Silvia Trkman advocate for embracing a dog’s natural speed, spontaneity, and playfulness in agility training rather than adhering to strict control-based methods. The idea is not just about controlling the dog’s behavior but encouraging the dog’s natural instincts and enthusiasm, which creates a more joyful, cooperative experience for both the dog and the handler.
Ethical Considerations: There is an ethical impulse in contemporary training to respect the dog’s emotions and individuality. Training now often focuses on mutual benefit and joy, with an emphasis on understanding and adapting to the dog’s needs rather than imposing strict human standards of behavior on the dog. This is a radical departure from older, more authoritarian approaches.
Radical Behaviorism’s Limits: While behaviorism, particularly positive reinforcement, has dominated much of modern dog training, its limitations are increasingly being recognized. Behaviorism, as represented by trainers like Susan Garrett, still positions the human as a controlling figure, shaping the dog’s desires and behavior in a highly structured and controlled environment. This approach may be effective in terms of results, but it lacks spontaneity and does not fully account for the dog’s emotional experience.
“Becoming With” and Species Fluidity: Drawing on Donna Haraway’s concepts of “becoming with” and performativity, the article argues that training is not a one-way street where humans shape dogs. Instead, both the human and the dog are transformed through the training process, creating a new kind of relationship that transcends traditional hierarchies. Haraway’s work is used to illustrate how dog training, particularly in sports like agility, becomes a collaborative performance that blurs the human-animal divide.
The Role of the “Animal Apparatus”: The article introduces the concept of the “animal apparatus” (from Michael Peterson) to discuss the tools and environments that shape animal performances in training. It critiques the material elements of traditional training methods, such as crates, collars, and highly structured protocols, as reinforcing control over the dog, even in positive reinforcement frameworks. In contrast, newer training philosophies allow more freedom and spontaneity, valuing the dog’s natural behaviors.
Training as a Mutual Transformation: Rather than focusing solely on making dogs behave in ways that suit humans, contemporary training increasingly involves humans adapting to the dog’s natural instincts and needs. This mutual adaptation is viewed as a more ethical and enriching approach to training, one that fosters a deeper bond between dog and human.
“More Dog” Philosophy: The title “Be More Dog” refers to a shift toward adopting a dog’s perspective—valuing enthusiasm, spontaneity, and full engagement in life. This philosophy encourages trainers and dog owners to let go of rigid control and embrace the joy and freedom that come from working with, rather than against, a dog’s natural instincts.
In summary, the article highlights the evolution in dog training practices from control-oriented methods to more cooperative, empathetic, and mutually transformative approaches. Contemporary training focuses on respecting the dog’s individuality and working with their natural behaviors, fostering a deeper and more fulfilling bond between dogs and humans.