Types of Dog Training

*Disclaimer - By Trails and Tails Dog Walking. Not Trainer.

Training your dog is more than teaching commands—it’s about building a strong, trusting relationship with your canine companion. At Trails and Tails Dog Walking, we’ve seen firsthand how consistent, thoughtful training transforms not just behavior but the bond between you and your dog. But with so many different methods out there, how do you figure out which type of training is best for your pup?

Let’s break it down with an overview of popular training styles, how they work, and what you need to consider.

1. Positive Reinforcement Dog Training

Positive reinforcement is one of the most popular—and widely recommended—training methods today. At its core, it’s simple: reward your dog when they do something right. Whether it’s sitting on command, walking nicely on a leash, or calmly greeting a stranger, the behavior is followed by a reward like a treat, praise, or a favorite toy.

Some trainers choose to use 100% positive reinforcement, which means avoiding corrections entirely. This method avoids saying "no," pulling on the leash, or using any aversive tools. Instead, desired behaviors are encouraged with treats or kibble. This can be incredibly effective for many dogs, especially those who are food motivated.

👉 Pro Tip: If you’re giving lots of food during training, consider using your dog’s regular kibble instead of treats to avoid overfeeding. Measure out their daily meal portions and use those during training sessions to keep them healthy.

However, it’s worth noting that this method doesn’t work for every dog. Some dogs are so clever they figure out how to “game the system”—misbehaving just to get a reward when they correct themselves. Others may become overly dependent on treats.

To avoid this, many trainers recommend pairing treats with a consistent sound cue—like a click from a clicker. This is known as clicker training. The click marks the exact moment your dog does something right, helping them learn more quickly and rely less on food over time.

2. Compression Training

Another approach is negative reinforcement, also known as compression training. Unlike punishment, which discourages behavior by adding something unpleasant, negative reinforcement works by removing pressure when your dog does the right thing.

For example:

• Applying gentle leash pressure when your dog pulls, and releasing it when they stop.

• Saying "no" firmly to interrupt behavior.

• Using a brief, non-harmful tool like pet-correct compressed air to snap a dog out of fixating or darting.

This method can be especially helpful for dogs who are strong, distracted, or reactive. The key is to use it thoughtfully and with respect. Your dog should never feel afraid of you—trust is essential. They should look to you as a calm, consistent leader, not a source of fear.

⚠️ If you ever feel like your training is hurting your relationship with your dog, or if your dog seems anxious or fearful, it’s time to shift gears. Training should build confidence—not stress.

And remember: never use the crate as punishment. The crate should always be your dog’s happy place—a calm, cozy spot they enjoy spending time in.

3. Finding the Right Fit for Your Dog

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to training. Some dogs thrive on positive-only methods. Others need a bit more structure or pressure to stay safe and focused.

What’s most important is that:

• Your dog feels safe and confident with you.

• You’re consistent in your approach.

• Everyone who walks or handles your dog uses the same training method.

Inconsistency can confuse your pup, especially if one person uses treats and another corrects behavior with a leash. That’s why it’s vital that all caregivers—including your dog walker—are on the same page.

4. Puppy Class: The Best Place to Start

If you’re starting with a puppy, a puppy class is one of the best investments you can make. It’s not just about commands—it’s about socialization, confidence-building, and learning to focus in a distracting environment.

But don’t stop after the class ends. Training is ongoing, and it requires repetition and practice throughout your dog’s life. Even adult dogs benefit from refresher courses or training games.

The Bottom Line

Training isn’t just about obedience—it’s about your relationship with your dog. Whether you choose positive reinforcement, compression training, or a combination of techniques, the best training is the one that builds trust, respect, and a joyful connection between you and your pup.

At Trails and Tails Dog Walking, we’re happy to support the training methods that work best for you and your dog. We believe that consistency, compassion, and communication are the foundation of a well-behaved—and happy—dog.

Need help reinforcing training on your walks? Let us know your preferred methods, and we’ll make sure your pup gets consistent guidance every step of the way.