7 Dog Behaviour Training Myths to Question Before You Book
Updated: 4 days ago
When your dog's behaviour is getting you down, it's tempting to book the first person who promises results. But a lot of dog training advice is built on old ideas that don't match what we now know about how dogs learn. Some of it simply doesn't work. Some of it makes problems worse. Knowing the common myths helps you ask better questions, spot the red flags and choose help that will actually change things for your dog. After more than 30 years of training dogs, I'd much rather you asked hard questions than booked the first person you found. Here are seven dog behaviour training myths worth questioning before you book anyone, and what's really true instead.
THE SHORT ANSWER
Many dog training myths can lead you to the wrong help. Quick fixes rarely last, as real behaviour change takes weeks of practice. Dogs aren't trying to dominate you, so "pack leader" methods don't address the real cause, which is usually fear, frustration or not knowing what to do. Punishment can stop a behaviour in the moment but often adds fear and makes problems worse. Dogs don't always grow out of problems, and older dogs can absolutely learn. Socialisation isn't about meeting every dog, it's about calm, positive experiences. Training isn't just obedience either, as feelings drive behaviour. Before you book, look for a qualified, reward-based trainer or behaviourist who explains their methods clearly, involves you and never promises a guaranteed fix.
IN THIS POST
ā Myth 1: a good trainer can fix it fast
ā Myth 2: your dog is trying to be the boss
ā Myth 3: punishment works faster
ā Myth 4: they'll grow out of it
ā Myth 5: you can't teach an old dog new tricks
ā Myth 6: socialisation means meeting every dog
ā Myth 7: training is just obedience
ā What to check before you book
ā FAQs
Myth 1: a good trainer can fix it fast
It's natural to want a quick fix, especially when you're tired or worried. But behaviour change takes time, because your dog is learning new habits and, often, new feelings.
A trainer who promises results in one session is usually suppressing the behaviour, not changing it. Real progress looks like steady improvement over weeks, with a plan you can keep using at home.
Myth 2: your dog is trying to be the boss
The idea that dogs are trying to dominate their owners comes from old, flawed studies of captive wolves. Most behaviour problems have much simpler causes, like fear, frustration, excitement, pain or not knowing what to do.
Methods based on being the "pack leader" often involve intimidation. They don't address the real reason for the behaviour, and they can damage your dog's trust in you.
Myth 3: punishment works faster
Shouting, lead jerks, spray bottles or shock collars might stop a behaviour in the moment. But they don't teach your dog what to do instead, and they often add fear or stress.
A dog who is punished for growling may stop growling and bite without warning. Reward-based training teaches your dog what you'd like, builds confidence and lasts. Read what to ask before hiring a dog trainer.
Myth 4: they'll grow out of it
Some puppy behaviours do fade with age, like mouthing. But many problems, like pulling, jumping, barking or worry around other dogs, get stronger with practice.
Adolescence can also bring new challenges. It's much easier to guide a young dog now than to change an adult habit later. Read why adolescent dogs forget their training.
Myth 5: you can't teach an old dog new tricks
Older dogs learn brilliantly. They may need shorter sessions, gentler exercises and more patience, but they can change habits and learn new skills at any age.
Many rescue dogs settle into completely new lives in their later years. If your dog is older, a vet check is a good first step, as pain often affects behaviour.
Myth 6: socialisation means meeting every dog
Socialisation isn't about letting your puppy meet as many dogs and people as possible. Too much, too fast can frighten a young dog.
Good socialisation means calm, positive experiences at a pace your puppy can cope with, including watching from a distance. Quality matters far more than quantity. Read puppy socialisation.
Myth 7: training is just obedience
Sit, down and come are useful, but they don't fix everything. A dog who barks at other dogs out of fear needs help with how they feel, not just a stronger "sit".
Good behaviour training looks at emotions, health, routine and environment, as well as teaching skills. It uses games plus step-by-step teaching, a bit of both.
What to check before you book
Look for a trainer or behaviourist with recognised qualifications and experience with your dog's problem. Ask how they work, what tools they use and how you'll be involved.
Avoid anyone who uses pain, fear or force, talks about dominance or promises guaranteed results. A good professional explains things clearly, listens to you and gives you a plan you can follow at home. Read how to find the right online dog training.
RENEE'S TIP
When you speak to a trainer, ask one simple question: "What will you do if my dog gets it wrong?" A kind, modern trainer will talk about making it easier, changing the setup or rewarding what your dog gets right. If the answer involves lead jerks, check chains or "showing them who's boss", keep looking.
QUICK CHECK
ā Real behaviour change takes weeks, not one session
ā Dogs aren't trying to dominate you
ā Punishment adds fear and can make things worse
ā Older dogs can learn and change
ā Choose a qualified, reward-based professional
FROM RENEE'S BOOKSHELF
The Calm Puppy Companion
Step-by-step help for settling, manners and everyday calm, for puppies and young dogs.
ONE-TO-ONE HELP
Help with your dog's behaviour
If you're not sure where to turn, I can help you understand what's behind your dog's behaviour and build a kind, step-by-step plan in an online Dog Behaviour Consultation from wherever you are.
Online on Teams, wherever you are. 30 or 60 minutes.
FAQs
Is dominance training effective?
No. Most problems come from fear, frustration or confusion, not a wish to be in charge.
Does punishment work in dog training?
It may stop behaviour briefly, but it adds fear and doesn't teach what to do instead.
Will my puppy grow out of bad behaviour?
Some things fade, but many habits get stronger with practice. Start early.
Can older dogs learn new behaviours?
Yes. Older dogs can learn at any age with shorter, gentler sessions.
How do I choose a dog behaviour trainer?
Look for recognised qualifications, reward-based methods and a clear, honest plan.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Renee Patience Ā· National Dog Trainer of the Year 2025
Founder and head trainer of Paws Academy, with more than 30 years training dogs and a Level 6 Diploma in Applied Canine Behaviour. Renee has competed in agility, obedience and heelwork to music across the UK, including at Crufts and Olympia, has appeared on CBBC, and is the author of the Modern Training Guides and the Modern Breed Handbook series. Pictured with her boxer, Kookie.
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