What Is Dog Training? | Positive and Balanced Dog Training with Canine Associated Services

Dog training is the process of teaching dogs to behave in ways that are appropriate, safe, and in harmony with their owners’ lifestyles. At Canine Associated Services (CAS), we specialise in reward-based dog training designed to build trust, strengthen communication, and enhance the bond between dogs and their owners.

A Brief History of Dog Training

Dogs have been trained for thousands of years to perform essential tasks – such as guarding, herding, and hunting. However, modern dog training as we know it today began to evolve during the 1950s, when suburban living made domestic companionship the primary role of dogs. Since then, training has expanded from working commands to include obedience, behavioural correction, and social development.

How Do Dogs Learn?

Understanding how dogs learn is key to successful training. Dogs learn by interacting with their environment in the following ways:

1. Classical Conditioning

This learning occurs when a dog forms an automatic association between two stimuli. (Think of Pavlov’s dogs associating a bell with food.)

2. Operant Conditioning

This is when a dog’s behaviour is shaped by consequences—either rewards or the removal of unpleasant experiences.

3. Non-Associative Learning

Dogs adjust their behaviour through habituation (getting used to a repeated stimulus) or sensitisation (increased response to a stimulus over time).

Popular Dog Training Methods

Over the years, various dog training techniques have developed, including:

• Clicker training
• Motivational training
• Relationship-based training
• Koehler method
• Dominance-based training (now largely outdated)
• Electronic training (not recommended)
• Model-rival training

While there are many schools of thought, at CAS we avoid punishment-based training methods. Our philosophy is grounded in positive reinforcement, where dogs are praised and rewarded for desired behaviours rather than punished for mistakes.

Why Positive Dog Training Works Best

At Canine Associated Services, we believe training should be:

• Kind
• Effective
• Science-based

Positive training methods help dogs:

• Learn faster
• Build confidence
• Develop trust in their handler
• Exhibit long-lasting behavioural improvements

We work to understand your dog’s unique personality, breed characteristics, and emotional needs to create a tailored training plan that works for your lifestyle.

Begin Your Dog’s Training Journey with CAS

Whether you’re training a new puppy or working with a rescue dog, CAS provides expert dog training services across Kent and the South East. From obedience training to behavioural support, we are here to help your dog become a happy, well-balanced member of your family.

Call us today at 07879 846534 or 01227 365136
Email: info@canineassociatedservices.co.uk