05/04/2025
The Irony of āTrainableā Breeds and Outdated Methods
Itās ironic how often the breeds labeled as the most ātrainableāālike German Shepherds, Malinois, Dobermanns, and other working dogsāare also the ones most frequently subjected to outdated, punishment-heavy training methods.
These breeds are known for being intelligent, biddable, and eager to work with humans. Theyāre the dogs we describe as āeasy to traināānot because theyāre robotic, but because they thrive on connection, clarity, and purposeful work. Yet despite this, many trainers and handlers still default to old-school approaches: compulsion, corrections, dominance narratives, and tools designed to suppress behavior instead of shape it.
Why?
Because thereās a long-standing culture around these breedsāone that equates control with respect, and force with effectiveness. But the truth is: many of these dogs are incredibly sensitive. They donāt need to be āput in their place.ā They need fair leadership, structure, and communication that respects their drive and intelligence.
Punishment may exist in nature, but that doesnāt mean it should be the foundation of how we teach. These dogs deserve betterānot because theyāre fragile, but because theyāre capable of so much more when taught with clarity, kindness, and consistency.
If we truly believe these dogs are smart and willing, shouldnāt our methods reflect that?
