Debunking Common Myths About Positive Reinforcement

Even as force-free methods gain ground, misinformation continues to circulate both online and among dog professionals themselves. As a practitioner committed to ethical standards, it’s essential to challenge these myths not only for your clients’ sake, but for the welfare of the dogs we serve.

Let’s look at some of the most persistent myths about positive reinforcement and the truths that dispel them.

Myth 1: “Positive reinforcement is bribery.”

Many people confuse reinforcement with bribery assuming that if a treat is involved, the dog is only “doing it for the food.”

Truth: Reinforcement strengthens behaviour. It’s a way to motivate and mark the behaviour we want to see more of. The goal is to help dogs want to engage, not to lure them indefinitely. Over time, reinforcement can shift from food to praise, toys or real-life rewards. But just like humans, dogs work better when there’s something in it for them.

Myth 2: “It doesn’t work on stubborn or dominant dogs.”

The “stubborn” label is often applied to dogs who don’t respond to unclear signals, are overwhelmed or have been punished into learned helplessness.

Truth: All animals respond to reinforcement but not all reinforcers are created equal. If a dog isn’t engaging, we may be using the wrong motivator, asking for too much, or working in the wrong environment. It’s not about stubbornness. It’s about understanding the learner i.e. the dog.

Myth 3: “It takes too long.”

Aversive methods can appear to work quickly by suppressing behaviour. But suppression isn’t the same as understanding and often comes with other behavioural challenges and longer term issues.

Truth: Positive reinforcement builds behaviours that last, because the dog understands the task and chooses to participate. That’s not just more ethical, it's more sustainable. Quick fixes may be fast, but they’re often fragile.

Myth 4: “You’re just letting the dog do what they want.”

Some see force-free as “soft” or “permissive.” In reality, it’s a structured, intentional and deeply evidence-based approach.

Truth: Ethical training sets clear boundaries, it just does so without coercion. A dog that learns through kind leadership and reinforcement is often more reliable, because their responses are based on choice, not fear.

Final thoughts …

Positive reinforcement isn’t a trend or a compromise, it’s the most humane, effective and scientifically sound way to teach. And as professionals, we don’t just use it. We understand it, defend it and help our clients see why kindness isn’t just ethical, it's smart.