A renowned dog trainer, Will Atherton, known for his TikTok videos with over 900,000 followers, has sparked debate by addressing the question of ‘punishing’ puppies. His approach, while controversial, offers a nuanced perspective on how to guide young dogs.
In a recent video that garnered over 7,000 views, Will tackled the loaded word ‘punishment’, acknowledging its negative connotations. He explained that ‘punishment’, in his context, simply means any action that decreases the frequency of an undesirable behavior. This could be as simple as a noise that discourages a puppy from repeating a certain action.
Will stresses that while ‘punishment’ can be a tool, the focus should be on positive reinforcement and clear communication. He believes dog owners have a responsibility to teach their dogs what they want, but also to help them understand what they don’t want in a way that is both effective and kind.
In his experience, Will has encountered numerous dogs that excel at obedience but lack a clear understanding of what behaviors are unacceptable. This can lead to frustration, anxiety, and fear for the dog, ultimately damaging the relationship with the owner.
The key, according to Will, is to communicate to the dog that the owner is in control and that there is no need for anxiety or fear. This not only benefits the dog but also fosters a happier, more harmonious relationship between owner and pet.
