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Writer's pictureStephanie Zikmann

Understanding The Significance of Words & Intent: How Your Approach Affects Your Relationship With Dogs

Updated: Jul 16

Do words like "command," and "correct" in the realm of dog training reveal anything about our intentions and methods? Should we be more mindful of the language we use when interacting with dogs, or is it just overthinking?


A lady bribes a dog to sit for a tasty treat during a dog training session.
The majority of dog carers strive in raising obedient dogs, but to what end?

Table of Contents



Introduction


Words have meaning and behind meaning there is intent, whether we realise it or not - Stephanie Zikmann

As I have developed my knowledge and understanding of canine emotions and how they communicate and receive information, the repertoire of words I use in my work with dogs has changed drastically for the better.


A significant portion of our established vocabulary originates from the discredited "dominance theory" (Mech) and the initial assumption that dogs lack emotions and thus need a more formal, mechanical approach to care (Descartes).


However, we urgently require a complete overhaul of our dog care vocabulary to better align with our improved understanding of dogs.


It is now widely acknowledged that humans are not the sole animal species with the ability to think independently and experience a wide range of emotions. The understanding that all animals possess thoughts and feelings has emerged, and it seems unlikely that we will ever fully grasp the extent of their cognitive abilities.


The key is in reminding ourselves that words carry both meaning and purpose.


Although we may not actively be following outdated methods and approaches, the continued use of many associated words and terms implies that we are not completely moving away from them and fails to acknowledge an updated and ethical approach.


For instance, it is important to avoid using "it" when referring to a dog - this is something that really bothers me! Dogs have gender, so they should be addressed as she or he, her or him. By making small adjustments to simple words, we show that they are living creatures, not mere objects.


While it may take some work to change our thought processes to form new habits (I still slip up every now and then), it is crucial that we begin actively reevaluating how we communicate with and address dogs in our everyday encounters until it becomes a natural reflex.


Which terms and phrases can negatively impact our relationships with dogs?


beautiful black dog - dominance theory debunked
The law views a dog as legal property and us their legal owners...

Using any words or phrases that suggest an animal lacks sentience can be detrimental to establishing an affectionate and respectful bond with dogs. Furthermore, the people in our vicinity are influenced by and gaining knowledge from the language we employ - consider young children who absorb information from both our verbal expressions and behaviours.


Given that the law fails to endorse a modern perspective on the consciousness of dogs (such as the Dangerous Dog Act 1991), it can be difficult to encourage society to shift their mindset and start seeing dogs in a fresh light.


As an illustration, according to section 3 of the Dangerous Dog Act 1991, it is specified that if a dog is dangerously out of control in any location, whether public or private, the individual responsible for the dog, whether the owner or the person currently in charge, can be charged with a summary offense. Legally, companion animals are referred to as "chattels" meaning they are considered as "items" that are "owned" or "possessed" by an individual or entity (owner/s). Moreover, in the event that the owner of a dog reports that the dog has been stolen and the dog is not recovered, the individual accountable (if apprehended) would face prosecution under the Torts Act 1977 (Interference with Goods).


Another frequently used term for many centuries is "master", implying that a dog serves "its" human. Am I being overly sensitive in thinking that this perspective is worth considering? Maybe I am, who knows! What do you think?


Detrimental language and equally detrimental motives within an obsolete dog care sector.


dogs are often treated as items and property. Little black pug wearing a denim jacket
We often dress our dogs up like little dogs just like Barbie dolls...

In addition to the commonly used terms 'owner', 'item', and 'possession', which are often used passively without much consideration for their implications, there are other frequently used words, terms and phrases that convey a distinct purpose.

In numerous homes and professional settings, the methods employed for communicating and working with dogs often do not align with a modern, ethical approach, which is the main focus of this blog post.


In order to delve deeper into these concepts, I aim to dissect the most prevalent and harmful ones that are frequently used, many of which you may have already encountered:


  1. Command - The Oxford dictionary defines it to mean "to give an authoritative or peremptory order" and/or to "dominate (a strategic position) from a superior height" (verb) and to be "an authoritative order" or "the ability to use or control something". Within the realm of dog training, a traditional trainer may assert that they will instruct a dog to obey commands that prompt a specific behaviour. Where intention and approach intersect is in the method they use to train the dog to achieve the desired outcome - will they punish or will they nurture? Moreover, what is the reason behind trying to instruct a dog to complete a task, and what is the intended goal of this action? Does the end result contribute to the dog's welfare, or are we simply imposing our desire for the dog to entertain us? I'll leave that question with you...

  2. Dominate - The generic definition of the term "dominance" has little relevance to the world of dogs, or the canine:human bond and instead refers to an ethological definition used to describe the animal individual who has priority to a limited, desired resource (McConnell, 2010). In the context of dog training, establishing dominance over a dog often equates to demonstrating that you are the "alpha" and therefore deserve respect. For further information, refer to the Alpha section below. The words "dominance", "dominant", and "domineering" are often used incorrectly and misunderstood when describing a dog's behaviour. For instance, it is common for individuals to describe a dog that is dominant as being aggressive. Or, a dog that does not follow a heel command and walks ahead of its caregiver is frequently labeled as domineering and attempting to assert dominance as the alpha (in reality this often simply a dog who is excited to get to the park for some 'dog' time or an anxious dog who is finding the entire journey stressful and wants to flee). Or, a dog that growls at you when you attempt to remove him from the sofa is viewed as a dog asserting dominance (the reality is often that this is a dog who is communicating that he isn't happy with the interaction or is maybe in pain). Aggressive behaviours are usually a clear indication that a dog is experiencing a level of fear, anxiety, stress or pain - dominance has nothing to do with it.

  3. Control - In the realm of dog care, being in charge of a dog is not just the legal duty of a "responsible" dog owner but also a sign that safety has been ensured. For example, "Controlling a dog reduces the risk of accidents, especially in sectors such as dog grooming", says mostly all conventional dog groomers across the world. While there is some truth to this concept, the methods employed by many dog caregivers and professionals to establish control over dogs warrant further discussion. To keep it short, physically controlling a dog is NOT achieving safety. Safety is more than physical safety when it comes to a sentient animal. Safety must consider emotional, psychological and physiological safety as well.

  4. Correct - This term is used to describe an actionable consequence to an undesired behaviour usually using one of the four training quadrants, more specifically negative reinforcement and/or positive punishment. If a dog behaves in a way that their owner perceives as "naughty" or "undesirable", it is commonly advised to address the problem through corrective measures to prevent its recurrence. Different correction methods like yelling, physical discipline, electric collars, correction sprays, and water guns are commonly employed. However, ethical and well-informed dog professionals will not condone or support these techniques due to their awareness of the emotional, psychological, and physical effects they can have.

  5. Authority - Authority is defined as "the power or right to give orders to others, make decisions and enforce obedience" (Oxford Dictionary). Dog owners are frequently advised to demonstrate "authority" and act as the "leader" in their interactions with their dogs. This concept is associated with the 'alpha' theory, which suggests that being alpha means being the dominant figure in your dog's life. As I will later explain using my experience working as the General Manager of a hotel, leadership should not be confused with exerting authority over others.

  6. Alpha - The concept of humans needing to establish a dominant position in their interactions with dogs to attain an "alpha" status echoes the initial findings of researcher David Mech. Mech observed that captive wolves would use intimidation and fear to assert dominance and secure priority access to resources within the pack, but we now know that this is not a realistic theory to base our relationships with domesticated dogs on. "I don't know anything about dogs - I study wolves"... In one interview between Mech and a popular American dog trainer, he states "I cannot comment on dogs - I don't know anything about them. I study wolves" - emphasising that although dogs and wolves have very similar DNA, there are significant differences that distinguish them worlds apart (Pack Leader Dogs, 2023). One of the key training techniques rooted in the alpha theory involves the 'alpha roll' and 'alpha pin' - behaviours witnessed in wolves asserting dominance over others in resource-related conflicts. The idea was that a dog owner could use these actions to assert their alpha position and assert authority over their dog, a coercive approach that is typically not positively received within a wolf pack dynamic. These behaviors are typically seen among littermates and members of a wolf family as a way to hone hunting skills and engage in playful roughhousing, with strict boundaries in place to prevent any harm (Shelbourne, 2012).

  7. Aggression - Equally, the terms "aggressive", "aggression" and "reactive" are also misunderstood and misused. Only a small number of dogs exhibit inherent aggression, often linked to a neurological issue. As mentioned, the majority of aggressive behaviour in dogs is usually a result of fear, stress, anxiety and/or discomfort.

  8. Reactive: There is a prevalent stigma surrounding dogs labeled as "reactive" to different stimuli, often equating this reactivity with aggression. In truth, reactivity is a natural response that does not necessarily manifest as aggression. As sentient beings, we all react to stimuli in our environment, with our bodies instinctively responding to perceived information. When an individual reunites with a loved one following a week of separation, it can lead to eustress - a heightened state of arousal triggered by positive feelings that manifest through excited behaviours (similar to how a dog reacts when reunited with his/her caregiver, regardless of the duration of the separation). But when a dog exhibits intimidating behaviours like barking, lunging, or snarling, this indicates that he/she is facing difficulties and there are underlying issues that require attention and resolution. Reacting is simply responding to the information that we encounter constantly throughout the day.

Do dogs require a strong leader to feel secure and flourish?

beautiful red puppy in the forest holding a large stick.
Dogs need the freedom to explore the world around them without fear.
Leadership is based on inspiration, not domination; on cooperation, not intimidation - William Arthur Ward.

It is indeed true that dogs require a sense of security and safety in their surroundings to flourish. However, achieving this should never involve the use of force, fear, or intimidation, as mentioned in the definition of authority provided earlier.


Leading is not the same as controlling, guiding is not the same as commanding - can you see the difference between these words? It's quite powerful when you commit some time to letting the words sink in!


When I stepped into the General Manager role of a busy hotel I was in charge of various teams and various members of staff. The previous General Manager was not hesitant to conduct intimidating staff meetings to point out mistakes made by employees - he had a very traditional approach. Due to his reluctance to allow others to speak or share their ideas, he was both despised and feared. While he may have succeeded in managing five-star hotels in Singapore and Malaysia, he struggled to understand the work ethic of Western society. During his reign, there was a high staff turnover rate, and if I didn't rely on my monthly wages, I would have been among the first to leave. However, I persisted and found a way to work with him that allowed me to avoid his scrutiny. Eventually, I became his personal assistant and used that opportunity to absorb as much knowledge as possible about the hospitality sector from him.


Many of his methods often left me feeling frustrated as, beneath his cold facade, there was a man who was surprisingly insecure and occasionally gentle. I was the only one who witnessed this side of his personality, which ultimately led to his downfall.


Upon assuming my new position, I initiated a transformation by redefining roles and duties throughout the entire organisation. I actively participated in the daily operations (cleaning rooms, cooking breakfasts, taking bookings and even reviewing accounts), immersing myself in various tasks crucial for the hotel's success. I arranged regular team meetings to foster idea-sharing and collaboration. This approach proved effective as I remained open-minded, receptive to new initiatives, and willing to empower others to lead the way when needed. Because of this approach, we became a family.


Think of it this way: would a child feel safe in a household where a parent shouted, used physical punishment, and exerted control over all other family members? Or would they feel more secure with parents who establish reasonable limits while also being open and caring? Maybe I have evoked a memory of yours with this illustration (if so, I apologise), but the key point here is that no one has ever claimed that their abusive parent made them feel secure, cared for, and loved. Instead, we typically cherish the instances when our parents were gentle, affectionate, and encouraging towards us - these were the moments when we felt safe, understood and protected.


Dogs require a responsible individual who is both a caretaker and caregiver, prioritising their well-being above their desire to have them perform a certain task.


A caretaker or caregiver is described as someone who is hired or who has primary responsibility for looking after an animal, including providing physical, physiological, mental, and emotional support. Don't you think that this description more fitting for our connection with dogs than the previous one?


Security in a dog is established similarly to how it is established for children within a human family unit. A strong and positive bond between a human and a dog is built on love, compassion, compromise, and adaptability.


Fear never leads to safety.


In what ways is Dominance Theory outdated?


beautiful golden retriever carrying a flower - dominance theory debunked.
Dominance Theory doesn't consider the emotional sentiency of dogs

Although it is true that in many prey animal species, dominance hierarchies are typically established through physical combat, predator animals are more cautious about getting injured and will opt for alternative methods to determine their rank within their social groups.


The theory regarding dogs' behaviour was initially developed in the 1930s by animal behaviourist Rudolph Schenkel, who drew inspiration from observing captive wolves in a Swiss zoo and drawing comparisons to domesticated dogs. Researcher and Biologist, David Mech further explored this theory by studying captive wolves, ultimately revealing significant differences between wolves and dogs. Following extensive research on wolf sociology, Mech ultimately discredited dominance theory as he discovered that captive wolves bore little resemblance to their wild counterparts.


Wild wolves establish a hierarchy status that is inherited naturally, similar to the structure of a human family. A wolf pack consists of family members such as a breeding pair (mother and father), aunts, uncles, and siblings. The essence of a robust wolf pack is rooted in team work, nurturing, affection and care, contrasting with the controlled environment of captive wolves that Schenkel and Mech extensively researched initially.


Why are dog professionals and carers still practicing outdated methods?


man and dog hug outdoors.
There's no room for pride and ego in a loving relationship with dogs.
  1. Ego & Pride - Change can be uncomfortable, particularly when it involves acknowledging mistakes, and even more so when it may result in a loss of status. Regrettably, many pet professionals prioritise holding onto their influence over advancing the industry and, more crucially, ensuring the welfare of the animals under their care. I have often stated that humans can be the worst, and this is often the case.

  2. Quick Fix - Employing fear and intimidation strategies may provide immediate (though short-term) solutions for distressed dog owners dealing with challenging behaviours, as certain behaviours can significantly disrupt a family's quality of life. And the ability to provide quick fixes can enhance a professional's reputation and portray them as authorities, reflecting back on their ego and pride. It's a win/win.


Desperation can lead humans to do desperate things for a quick relief, even if it is momentarily, even if it's wrong - Stephanie Zikmann

Due to its quick results, this approach is well-suited for television, explaining why many "celebrity" trainers are actively demonstrating these techniques and methods.


Given the limited time frame for demonstrating techniques on TV programs, it is understandable that producers would prefer to feature and support individuals who can achieve the desired results within that period. This approach is cost-effective as it requires less airtime for production.


'Smoke and mirrors' springs to mind...


Unfortunately, dog carers and professionals face a difficult situation when they are constantly exposed to outdated terminology and an outdated approach through mainstream sources.


How can we shift the narrative surrounding the language and purpose of the dog care sector?



dog wearing glasses reading a dog magazine. Dominance theory is debunked!
Dogs rely on us to be better humans and change with the times.

By investing time in conducting thorough research on dog care, individuals can gain valuable insights into the latest advancements and best practices for ensuring the optimal health and well-being of their beloved pets.


This process involves exploring a wide range of topics such as nutrition, exercise, grooming, training, and healthcare.


By staying informed about current trends and developments in the field of dog care, dog carers can make informed decisions that can significantly impact the quality of life of their canine companions.


Additionally, by seeking out reputable sources of information, attending workshops or seminars, and consulting with veterinarians and reputable dog professionals, individuals can expand their knowledge and skills in providing the best possible care for their dogs.


Ultimately, the dedication to continuous learning and improvement in dog care practices can lead to stronger bonds, better communication, and overall happier and healthier relationships between dogs and their humans.

 

Bibliography


Shelbourne, T. (2012). The truth about wolves and dogs. Veloce Publishing Ltd.

Dog Legal Specialists and Solicitors | Dog Law. (n.d.). Dog Custody & Ownership Disputes | Dog Law. [online] Available at: https://doglaw.co.uk/civil/ownership-custody-disputes/#:~:text=A%20dog%20is%20regarded%20within [Accessed 14 Jul. 2024].

Pappas, S. (2023). Is the Alpha Wolf Idea a Myth? [online] Scientific American. Available at: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-the-alpha-wolf-idea-a-myth/.

Pack Leader Dogs (2023). Dr. Mech Debunks Dog Myths! Leadership in Wolves Explained. [online] YouTube. Available at: https://youtu.be/KMomcfChvR4?si=MGVE43SMJK00QSpb [Accessed 14 Jul. 2024]. (I do not endorse this business).


Further Support


Professional Groomers - please visit The Holistic Grooming Academy to read more about the Holistic Grooming and Behaviour Diploma.


Dog Carers - please visit Yappily to find your nearest reputable and positive-based pet care providers/entity's.



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