Are you the Alpha Dog?
Ok - so you got a dog. You bought the treats, the mat, maybe a cool lead. However your dog started to jump and mouth at people coming into the house, as well as bark for attention.
You did your homework, spoke to a few people, found a popular local trainer who was super confident and had all the answers. The methods seemed a bit heavy handed, but he’s the professional and you can’t help notice that his dog is just so well behaved! - Almost robotic.
So you put in the training hours and deliver on the homework plan. A week later, your dog no longer jumps and mouths - and he stays on the mat and won’t move - it works! Just like the trainer showed you…. But… Wait… Something is not right - your once-happy go lucky pup seems nervous and withdrawn. And you’re left wondering:
What the f*ck just happened?
Here’s the honest answer:
Not all dog training is created equal.
The Problem With Quick-Fix Training
In Melbourne (and many other cities), there’s a market for trainers who use what's often called “compulsion” or “alpha” methods. These programs promise results and obedient dogs, they even offer a membership - sounds incredible, who wouldn’t want that?
But here’s the catch: those results often come at a cost. Not to your wallet (although, yeah, that too), but to your dog’s mental health and wellbeing.
This is NOT the way to help your dog overcome fear.
Let’s break it down.
What Are Aversive Methods, Anyway?
If your trainer is using things like:
leash jerks or pops,
physical corrections,
yelling “uh-uh” like it’s a magic spell,
Circling your dog and using ‘tonality’,
Standing over and staring at your dog,
prong or shock collars,
or telling you your dog is trying to "dominate" you by sitting on the couch…
…If you have been told to do this stuff, you’ve entered the Aversive Training Zone — population: stressed-out ‘obedient robot’ dogs and confused (well meaning) humans.
Sure, your dog might stop doing undesirable behaviour. But it may not be because they “learned” -> although aversive training does form associations, so technically that is learning (learning to avoid the thing that causes discomfort).
But that’s not training — that’s surviving.
What I See (Far Too Often)
Many of the dogs who come to me after this kind of training:
Flinch when their person moves too fast
Hide under the table instead of coming when called
Avoid eye contact like they've got a tax bill
Avoid the lead, mat or any equipment
Bark, growl, or lunge — because fear has replaced trust
And here’s the kicker: the guardians feel guilty. Like they did something wrong.
Here’s what I tell them:
You didn’t fail. You are trying to do the right thing by reaching out to a ‘professional’ and were sold snake oil (with poison intact)
So… What does ‘Training’ Actually Look Like?
Let’s keep it simple. Good dog training should feel like:
✔️ You’re learning a new dance together.
✔️ Your dog is growing in confidence, and keen to train.
✔️ It should be the best part of your dogs day and improve your relationship.
It’s not about being the “alpha” — What does that even mean!
This is your dog, a social animal - one that has evolved to be in partnership with humans.
How to Pick a proper trainer
Ask them:
“What methods do you use — and why?”
If their answer includes “pack leadership”. alpha energy or mimicking wolf behaviour... run.“What happens when a dog gets it wrong?”
Spoiler: the answer should not involve respect, fear, corrections or discomfort.“Do you tailor your approach to the individual dog?”
Because yes, your anxious rescue Staffy and your neighbour’s Labrador couch potato need different plans.“Do you take history, do a thorough assessment and tailor the plan accordingly?”
‘Understanding’ is the most important thing when assessing and devising a training plan.
If You've Been Burned by Bad Training
Here’s the good news: Dogs can be incredibly resilient.
They can bounce back with the right support, just like humans do after dodgy haircuts and bad dates.
If you’ve already been down the aversive training road, it’s not too late. We can rebuild your dog’s confidence, your connection, and your training foundation — all without intimidation or force.
You’re Not Being “Soft” — You’re Being Smart.
Relationship-based training isn’t “spoiling your dog.” It’s teaching them how to feel safe, make good choices, and trust you — all without BS made up crap like Pack leadership and Alpha dog slogans.
And guess what?
That’s not fluffy. That’s real training that gets lifetime results.
If you found this blog helpful or were left with more questions, check out our other blog section.