Researchers from the University of Copenhagen and the University of Edinburgh surveyed 500 dog owners in the United States. They asked about the training methods owners use and about their views on animals.
Many owners use positive methods such as treats, toys and verbal praise. Fewer owners use punishment-based methods like reprimands or physical correction. The researchers grouped people by three ethical views of animals: anthropocentric, animal welfare, and animal rights.
The study found that owners with an anthropocentric view were more likely to use punishment, while those who value animal welfare were more likely to use positive methods. The results matter for dog welfare and for people who teach or advise about training.
Difficult words
- survey — ask a group of people many questionssurveyed
- punishment — action that causes pain or a penaltypunishment-based
- reprimand — a spoken or formal criticism for behaviorreprimands
- anthropocentric — belief that humans are more important than animals
- animal welfare — idea that animals should have good care
- animal rights — idea that animals have rights similar to people
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you prefer positive or punishment-based training? Why?
- Would you trust advice from a trainer who uses positive methods? Why or why not?
- Which view (anthropocentric, animal welfare, animal rights) do you agree with? Explain briefly.
