Just Behaving vs. Mainstream Dog Training

Just Behaving offers a contemporary approach to dog raising, emphasizing mentorship-based guidance, structured leadership, and the cultivation of natural canine manners. This methodology stands in contrast to mainstream modern dog training, which predominantly centers on positive reinforcement techniques, often utilizing treat-based rewards. This analysis delves into the key philosophical and practical differences between Just Behaving and prevalent mainstream methods across six critical areas. We will examine: 

1. Mentorship vs. Treat-Based Reinforcement
2. Prevention Over Redirection
3. Integrated Lifestyle Training vs. Isolated Sessions
4. Over-Stimulation vs. Structured Calmness
5. Leadership vs. Playmate Dynamic
6. Academic and Professional Perspectives on Efficacy

Drawing on scientific studies, professional insights, and behaviorist perspectives, this comparison aims for an objective look at how these approaches differ and the outcomes they typically produce.

Philosophical Differences:

• Just Behaving (JB): Views the owner/trainer as a mentor or leader, akin to a parent or mature pack member guiding a younger dog. Training involves structured leadership and "natural correction" – 4feedback mimicking how dogs discipline each other (e.g., a vocal interruption or gentle cue). The core idea is that dogs understand and respect this leadership dynamic. This leverages social learning; studies confirm puppies learn effectively by observing others, supporting the JB emphasis on learning through example and guidance from balanced adult dogs or human leaders. 
• Mainstream: Often rooted in operant conditioning using positive reinforcement. The philosophy focuses on rewarding desired behaviors (treats, praise, play) and minimizing unwanted ones through non-aversive means like ignoring or redirection. The human acts as a facilitator, providing positive outcomes to encourage voluntary cooperation. This is seen in treat-based and clicker training. Emphasis is placed on avoiding aversive corrections due to risks of fear, aggression, and damaged trust, motivating the dog positively rather than through avoidance of correction.

Technical Approaches:

• Just Behaving: Relies less on treats, more on clear communication, timing, body language, natural guidance, and a calm, assertive demeanor. Rewards might be affection or freedom. "Natural corrections" are brief and intuitively understood. Social interaction is key, with puppies learning manners and bite inhibition from interactions with mentors (canine or human), similar to learning within a litter. 
• Mainstream: Typically uses treats to mark and reward good behavior (e.g., click/treat for a sit). Unwanted behaviors are managed by redirection (offering an alternative acceptable behavior) or negative punishment (withholding rewards/attention). While effective for teaching commands, critics argue it can lead to treat dependency ("bribery") if rewards aren't properly faded over time. Proponents counter that treat-fading and variable reinforcement schedules prevent this, strengthening reliability. 

Outcomes and Effectiveness:

• A large body of scientific evidence supports positive reinforcement for effective learning and positive behavioral outcomes. Studies consistently find dogs trained with reward-based methods are often more obedient and less prone to fear or aggression compared to those trained with punitive methods. Reward-based training correlates with faster learning of new tasks. 
• Conversely, aversive corrections are linked to risks like increased stress, fear, and aggression, with no evidence suggesting they are more effective than positive methods. Extreme confrontational methods (alpha rolls, hitting) show clear risks of eliciting aggression. 
• Just Behaving's Counterpoint: Proponents argue that research often groups all "punishment" together, failing to distinguish mild, well-timed "natural corrections" (used within a trusted mentorship relationship) from harsh methods. They suggest these milder corrections can communicate effectively without instilling fear, potentially resolving certain issues faster than redirection alone. They also posit that mentored dogs may obey out of respect, even without rewards, unlike potentially treat-dependent dogs. However, studies do show well-conditioned positive-trained dogs perform reliably without constant immediate rewards. 
• Synthesis: Mainstream positive reinforcement is well-validated scientifically for efficacy and welfare. The JB mentorship model leverages natural social learning; its corrective aspect needs skilled application to avoid fear. The core difference lies in motivation: intrinsic respect/understanding (JB goal) vs. a history of rewarded choices (positive reinforcement goal). 

Philosophical Differences:

• Just Behaving: Emphasizes prevention – structuring the environment and interactions from day one so bad habits never develop. Anticipate and stop misbehaviors in infancy through management or gentle correction of first attempts. The idea is "don't let the dog practice doing the wrong thing". If successfully prevented during critical learning periods, the dog may never learn the unwanted behavior is possible or rewarding. 
• Mainstream: Values prevention (management), but often uses redirection when misbehavior occurs. Guide the dog from unwanted to desired behavior, then reinforce the desired one. The focus is "tell them what to do instead of what not to do". This channels the dog's intent (e.g., chewing) into an acceptable outlet without confrontation.

Long-Term Impact:

• Prevention: Can result in dogs with very clear boundaries who don't consider misbehaving. Requires high owner vigilance early on. If prevention fails even once on a highly rewarding behavior (like stealing food), the habit can start. 
• Redirection: Teaches flexibility and response to owner cues. Risk exists if the dog self-rewards before redirection occurs (e.g., thrill of chasing a squirrel before owner offers a treat). Preventing rehearsal of unwanted behaviors is crucial for success, a principle shared by behaviorists using redirection within managed exposure. 
• Synthesis: Good trainers often blend both. Early prevention is ideal. Redirection handles behaviors that slip through. JB likely leans more heavily on prevention/early correction. Preventing is generally easier than unlearning a habit. A balanced approach might prevent dangerous behaviors absolutely but use minor mistakes (like picking up a sock) as redirection teaching moments. 

Philosophical Differences:

• Just Behaving: Advocates for training integrated into daily life (360-degree or lifestyle-embedded training). Every interaction and routine (meals, doorways, walks) is a learning opportunity reinforcing good behavior. Consistency is key; there are no "off-duty" times. 
• Mainstream: Often involves scheduled/isolated training sessions (daily practice, weekly classes) supplemented by efforts at consistency in regular life.

Behavioral Outcomes & Generalization:

• Integrated: Likely leads to more consistent manners across situations as the dog doesn't learn context-specific rules. Naturally addresses generalization by embedding learning in varied daily contexts. Uses spaced repetition effectively. Can be more convenient as it uses existing time with the dog. Requires high owner awareness and consistency. 
• Isolated: Can allow focused learning of skills quickly. May create clear "work" vs. "free" contexts some owners prefer. Faces challenges with generalization; behaviors learned in one context may not transfer without specific practice elsewhere. May not fully prepare dogs for real-world distractions. 
• Synthesis: The trend in mainstream training is increasingly towards integration. The best outcomes likely combine structured teaching of new skills with continuous reinforcement through daily life integration. 

Philosophical Differences:

• Just Behaving: Prioritizes structured calmness. Encourages low arousal levels during interactions, teaching self-composure. Believes too much excitement leads to instability. Calm dogs learn better and are less prone to impulsive behaviors. Focuses on cultivating an internalized habit of relaxation. 
• Mainstream: Often uses high energy, excitement, and play for engagement and motivation. Treats, energetic praise, and stimulating activities (fetch, tug) are common rewards. The "tired dog is a good dog" idea prevails. Some working disciplines actively build drive. 

Behavioral Stability & Impact:

• Calmness: Aims to prevent over-arousal triggers. May prefer mental exercise over high-adrenaline physical activity. Addresses root causes of reactivity/hyperactivity by teaching self-soothing. Recognizes the optimal arousal level for learning is moderate, not hyper. Creates dogs with an "on/off switch". 
• Excitement: Risks creating over-stimulated dogs unable to focus or settle. May inadvertently reinforce excitement as the desired state. Can exacerbate issues like leash reactivity. High arousal (even positive) can elevate stress hormones. 
• Synthesis: Progressive positive trainers increasingly incorporate "capturing calmness" exercises, recognizing the need for self-regulation skills. The key difference is often when calmness is emphasized – JB integrates it foundationally, while mainstream may add it later if needed. 

Philosophical Differences:

• Just Behaving: Explicitly coaches owners to adopt a leadership/mentor role (parental model) – providing guidance, setting boundaries, enforcing rules consistently but benevolently. Clear leadership provides security for the dog. Discourages demanding behavior. 
• Mainstream: Trend towards "pet parent" can sometimes slide into a permissive, "playmate dynamic" where owners avoid setting limits, cater to demands, or act as entertainers. Focus on positive experiences may neglect structure. While good positive trainers advocate guidance, the message can be misinterpreted as permissiveness. 

Psychological & Behavioral Impact:

• Research analogizing human parenting styles suggests an authoritative approach (high warmth, high structure) – similar to JB's goal – yields dogs with the best outcomes (secure attachment, sociability, problem-solving).
• Permissive styles can lead to pushy, insecure, or anxious dogs lacking guidance. Authoritarian styles (low warmth, high structure) risk fear and aggression. 
• A leader/mentor dynamic fosters impulse control and obedience without constant rewards, as the dog respects the established structure. Lack of leadership can lead to owner frustration and inconsistent reactions. 
• Synthesis: Being a leader doesn't mean being harsh; it means providing clarity and consistency. Positive training and leadership are compatible; the owner guides positively within clear boundaries. The key is the authoritative balance. 

Evidence Base:

• Mainstream Positive Reinforcement: Strongly backed by scientific literature showing effectiveness and fewer welfare risks (fear, aggression, stress) compared to aversive methods. Professional bodies like AVSAB recommend positive methods. 
• Just Behaving (Mentorship/Balanced): Less direct research specifically on the "JB" package. Its emphasis on leadership aligns with "authoritative parenting" styles showing positive dog outcomes. Its use of "natural corrections" is contentious; while science warns against aversives generally, JB argues its milder, skilled corrections avoid the fallout of harsh methods. This nuance is rarely studied directly.

Professional Insights & Research Limitations:

• Most certified behaviorists favor force-free or LIMA methods. However, some experienced trainers argue balanced approaches (including corrections) are sometimes necessary for severe cases not adequately addressed by research. 
• Research Limitations: Much research relies on owner surveys (correlation vs. causation issues). Ethical constraints prevent experiments using severe punishment. Studies often measure obedience tasks, potentially missing nuances of real-life manners or owner satisfaction. Publication bias towards positive results might exist. Long-term effects are rarely studied.

Synthesis & Conclusion:

• Mainstream positive training provides a well-validated, low-risk foundation. 
• Just Behaving introduces valuable perspectives on lifestyle integration, mentorship, prevention, and calmness, aligning with some emerging science on relationships. 
• An optimal approach likely integrates strengths from both: primarily positive reinforcement (for safety/efficacy), emphasis on prevention and lifestyle integration, and owners assuming a confident, caring leadership role (authoritative style).
• Being a mentor doesn't preclude treats/play but uses them purposefully. Positive training benefits from structure and leadership. They are potentially complementary, not mutually exclusive. 

Ultimately, both approaches aim for effective communication and trust. Critically examining both allows for a comprehensive strategy prioritizing the dog's well-being and fostering a stable, joyful, securely bonded companion. 

© 2010 Just Behaving (Dan Roach). All rights reserved.