Decoding the Best Dog Training Methods: Which One is Right for Your Pup?

Ever stood in the pet store aisle, surrounded by training clickers, treat pouches, and a dozen dog training books, feeling completely overwhelmed? I’ve been there too. With countless YouTube trainers, Instagram dog whisperers, and neighborhood experts all claiming to have the “best” dog training method, how do you figure out what’s actually right for your furry friend? So… what are the best dog training methods?

Let’s face it – your relationship with your dog is unique, and the training approach that works for your neighbor’s Border Collie might fall flat with your stubborn Beagle. Today, we’re cutting through the noise to help you find the best dog training method that matches both your pup’s personality and your lifestyle.

Understanding the Best Dog Training Methods & Their Philosophies

Before diving into specific methods, it helps to understand the main schools of thought in the dog training world. Think of these as the “big umbrellas” under which most training techniques fall:

Positive Reinforcement Training 

This approach focuses on rewarding behaviors you want to see more of. When your dog sits on command, they get a treat, praise, or playtime – something they value. The idea is simple: behaviors that get rewarded get repeated.

“Positive reinforcement builds confidence in dogs and strengthens the human-animal bond,” says many professional trainers, including those at MD Pup Scouts, who emphasize relationship-building through training.

Aversive-Based Training

This older approach uses corrections or unpleasant consequences to discourage unwanted behaviors. This might include leash corrections, stern verbal reprimands, or devices like choke chains. While once standard practice, many modern trainers have moved away from these methods.

Balanced Training

As the name suggests, balanced trainers use a mix of positive reinforcement for good behaviors and corrections for unwanted ones. They argue this provides clearer communication with the dog about both what to do and what not to do.

Science-Based Training

This approach relies on understanding canine cognition, behavior, and learning theory to develop training protocols. It’s less a specific method and more an evidence-based framework for choosing techniques.

Popular “Best” Dog Training Methods and Their Pros & Cons

Now let’s look at some specific training approaches you might encounter:

Clicker Training

What it is: A positive reinforcement method using a small device that makes a distinct “click” sound to mark the exact moment your dog does something right, followed by a reward.

Best for: Dogs who respond well to precise timing and owners willing to develop good mechanical skills.

Pros:

• Extremely precise communication
• Creates enthusiastic learners
• Science-backed effectiveness

Cons:

• Requires good timing and coordination
• You need to carry equipment
• Some dogs may be sensitive to the clicking sound

Relationship-Based Training

What it is: Focuses on building a strong bond and clear communication system between you and your dog, using mostly positive methods but tailored to your specific relationship.

Best for: Most family dogs and owners who want a balanced approach.

Pros:

• Customized to your specific dog
• Builds a strong bond
• Flexible as your dog develops

Cons:

• Less structured than some methods
• Requires reading your dog’s body language
• Takes time to develop

Dominance/Alpha Training

What it is: Based on outdated wolf pack theories, this approach assumes dogs need an “alpha” leader and uses techniques meant to establish the owner’s dominance.

Best for: Honestly? Very few modern situations.

Pros:

• Can produce quick (though often temporary) suppression of behaviors
• Clear rules and boundaries

Cons:

• Based on misunderstood and outdated wolf research
• Can damage trust and create fear
• May increase aggression in some dogs

Take it from us at MD Pup Scouts, one of the top puppy training mistakes is “using punishment-based training methods that can damage your relationship with your puppy and create fear rather than trust.”

Force-Free Training

What it is: Avoids all aversive methods, focusing exclusively on positive reinforcement and management to prevent unwanted behaviors.

Best for: Sensitive dogs, puppies, or dogs with fear issues.

Pros:

• Builds confidence in shy or fearful dogs
• No risk of fallout from aversive methods
• Creates a positive association with training

Cons:

• May take longer for some behaviors
• Requires creativity for complex issues
• Some critics say it doesn’t address all behavior problems

Matching the Best Dog Training Methods to Your Dog’s Personality

Just like people, dogs have unique personalities that affect how they respond to different training approaches:

For the Eager Pleaser (Labs, Golden Retrievers, etc.) 

These dogs thrive on praise and positive reinforcement. They’re motivated to make you happy, so clicker training and reward-based methods work beautifully.

For the Independent Thinker (Huskies, Beagles, Terriers) 

These dogs often ask “What’s in it for me?” They benefit from high-value rewards and engaging training that makes compliance more interesting than the alternatives.

For the Sensitive Soul (Shelties, Border Collies, many rescue dogs) 

These dogs can shut down with even mild corrections. Force-free and positive methods create the safe environment they need to learn confidently.

For the Confident Canine (Rottweilers, German Shepherds, etc.) 

These dogs often do well with clear, consistent expectations. Relationship-based training with firm (not harsh) boundaries often works well.

Red Flags in Training Advice

Not all training advice is created equal. Watch out for these warning signs:

• Trainers who guarantee quick fixes for complex behaviors
• Methods that cause your dog to show fear (tucked tail, cowering, avoidance)
• Anyone who tells you to “show the dog who’s boss” through physical force
• Training that damages the trust between you and your dog
• One-size-fits-all approaches that don’t consider your dog’s individual needs

How Professional Trainers Can Help

Sometimes, the best approach is getting professional guidance. Here’s when to consider it:

• When dealing with serious behavioral issues like aggression or severe anxiety
• If you’re a first-time dog owner feeling overwhelmed
• When you’ve tried multiple approaches without success
• If you want to build a solid foundation with a new puppy

Professional trainers, like those at MD Pup Scouts, can assess your dog’s specific needs and help you develop a customized training plan that works for both of you.

Creating The Best Dog Training Methods Toolbox

The truth is, most successful dog parents don’t follow just one method rigidly. Instead, they develop a toolbox of approaches:

1. Core philosophy: Choose a foundation that aligns with your values (most modern trainers lean toward positive methods)
2. Adaptability: Be willing to adjust based on your dog’s responses
3. Management: Sometimes preventing unwanted behavior (through gates, leashes, etc.) is as important as training
4. Consistency: Whatever methods you choose, apply them consistently
5. Patience: Real behavior change takes time and repetition

The Bottom Line: What Really Matters in Dog Training

After exploring all these methods, here’s what truly matters:

• Effectiveness: Does it work for YOUR dog?
• Relationship: Does it strengthen your bond?
• Ethics: Does it respect your dog’s physical and emotional wellbeing?
• Sustainability: Can you implement it consistently in real life?

Remember, the goal isn’t just obedience—it’s communication and partnership with your four-legged family member.

Whether you choose clicker training, relationship-based methods, or work with a professional trainer, the best approach is one that helps your dog understand what you want while keeping training a positive experience for both of you.

What are the best dog training methods that have worked best for you and your pup? Have you found that different dogs respond to different approaches? Share your experiences in the comments or tag us on Instagram!