Does Reinforcement-Based Dog Training Work? – The Answer is Clear

“Reinforcement-based training doesn’t work.” – That’s like saying gravity doesn’t exist because you fell over.

Reinforcement isn’t a trend. It’s not a gimmick. It’s not some feel-good, sugar-coated version of training.

It’s a fundamental principle of how ALL animals learn — including dogs, humans, dolphins, chickens, and even you.

When people say reinforcement-based training doesn’t work, what they’re actually saying is:
“I don’t know how to apply it effectively.”

Because here’s the truth:
Reinforcement works. Full stop.
If the behaviour isn’t changing in the way you want, the issue isn’t the method — it’s the execution.

• 1. Maybe the timing is off.
  2. Maybe the reinforcement isn’t reinforcing.
  3. Maybe the criteria are unclear.
  4. Maybe the environment is too challenging.

But it’s not the science that’s broken.

Let’s stop blaming the method and start raising the standard of education.