BIG CHANGES Are Coming to Dog Training!

Big changes are coming... Should dog training be regulated? A new statement released by American College of Veterinary Behaviorists advocates for some big changes in the pet training industry.
Are we prepared to stand at the forefront of animal welfare, or will we cling to the shadows of outdated practices?
Last year, our community took significant strides in raising awareness about the challenges of an unregulated dog training industry, highlighting its drawbacks. As we move into 2024, these efforts are not only continuing but also gaining momentum with further advancements.
The American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, at the forefront of combining veterinary science and behavioral knowledge, is advocating for regulation in the pet training industry. Their expertise bridges the gap between animal health and behavior, making their push for standards a landmark move from one of the most respected bodies in animal welfare.
This is what they are recommending:
1. Education and Certification: Implementing mandatory education requirements and a certification process for all animal training professionals.
2. Commitment to Science-Based Techniques: Ensuring that all training methods are rooted in scientifically validated humane approaches, emphasizing the use of positive reinforcement and ensuring the well-being of the animal.
3. Consumer Protection and Public Safety: Establishing regulations to protect pet owners and the general public from unqualified animal training professionals, thereby enhancing overall public safety.
It’s heartening to see the impact that modern, evidence-based dog training is having. We are witnessing a significant shift away from outdated practices that rely on pain and discomfort-methods that are known to cause adverse side effects. The needle is moving towards more humane, effective training techniques, reflecting our growing understanding of animal behavior and welfare.
While I am fully behind this initiative, I acknowledge the diverse viewpoints within our community, especially from dog trainers who may have concerns about these proposed regulations’ implications. It’s vital that any move towards regulation considers the various economic realities and backgrounds of professionals in our field. Our aim is to inclusively elevate standards, ensuring the highest level of care and professionalism without exclusion or undue burden.
In our community, there are those who may resist and dismiss change, positioning themselves on the wrong side of history as opponents of progress. Yet, there are also those currently employing outdated methods who will see this call to action as a pivotal opportunity to modernize their practices and align with the future of animal welfare. The choice is clear: evolve and embrace progress, or risk being left behind as relics of a bygone era.
This call to action is more than a push for compliance; it’s an invitation to all involved-especially those who may have reservations-to engage in meaningful dialogue. Let’s discuss how we can implement these changes in a way that is inclusive, practical, and positive for all, especially the animals at the heart of our work.
Your insights and experiences are crucial as we move forward. Together, we can continue to advance towards a future where dog training is not just about obedience, but about fostering a safe, respectful, and loving relationship between humans and their animal companions. Let’s keep the conversation going and work together to ensure a better future for our pets.
Read the statement from the ACVB here: cdn.ymaws.com/www.dacvb.org/r...
🔔 SUBSCRIBE to see all of our videos (it’s totally free!) tinyurl.com/subzakgeorge
🚨 STATE OF EMERGENCY: The Dog Training Crisis is Here 🚨 WATCH NOW: • My Thoughts on the Dog...
For more daily dog training tips and videos FOLLOW US!
➡️ @zakgeorge on Instagram: / zakgeorge
➡️ I’m on TikTok too! vm.tiktok.com/fFxPbh/
➡️ Like me on Facebook! / thezakgeorge
😍 @breejustine is on instagram too: / breejustine
You can help support our videos by making a contribution here: / zakgeorge
📖 If you have a NEW PUPPY or you’re PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE, my FIRST book (broad overview of choosing, raising and training a dog) is the one for you!!! Get it here: amzn.to/1PXH568
📖 Order my NEW BOOK here (💥this one is a deeper dive into troubleshooting the most common training issues💥) amzn.to/2XiER6f
Thank you so much for watching this video! If you have any feedback, requests for future content, or just want to tell us about your dog… We’ll see you in the comments!! 🤗

[@flashover8231]

Personally I like and use a balanced approach. Corrections teach what the dog has done wrong. No abuse. Any abusive train must stop.

[@shayleekirkman7730]

Agree with this

[@underduress5761]

Most people that are reasonable and critically think things to logical ends, would agree

[@LyranSoul]

BOYCOT ZAK GEORGE.

[@LyranSoul]

ASK ZACARIAH WHAT HIS CREDENTIALS ARE. IT'S A PETSMART CERTIFICATE. Ask him where testimonials are for dogs he trained. They can't be found lol.

[@brknglasses2734]

Good! There are too many people abusing animals, and calling it training.

[@serendipitysisters84]

This is interesting. I have been trying to get my mother (and other members) to train their dogs and she loves to come up with endless excuses. Recently she tried to tell me techniques her dog trainer taught her as an excuse (but if they worked then why would we be having the conversation lol), but one of the tips was quite strange! We were sitting at the table eating and she claimed the trainer taught her that if the dog jumps at the table then to shove her arm at him and say down (basically just knocking over lol). I was wondering, what could that teach? And why would he still jump at the table if that technique worked (she claims it works lol) so I guess every time they eat at the table poor Chewy gets shoved to the ground. I wouldn’t classify it as abuse, but I think it is neglectful to ignore the problem and to use force. Can you imagine, every time you eat you knock your dog over? If that were me, would feel so bad! Or my heart would become calloused from getting used to it 😢 it’s a sad world. But God tells us that anyway, that’s why I have hope in a better world! Revelation 21:1-4 ❤ That got a bit off topic. But it’s true, there is corruption no matter where we turn. Even when it comes to training our dog apparently 😳

[@a.e.s.n.]

​@@serendipitysisters84she should teach her dog a place command on a dog bed or cot instead.

[@plsdi111]

There are too many walking treat pouches out there and they’re calling it dog training.

[@brknglasses2734]

@@plsdi111 yeah, because that's how you do it.

[@a.e.s.n.]

I totally agree ​@@plsdi111

[@dennishines9996]

no we don't need more government regulations!

[@underduress5761]

Funny how people that claim to be "force free" want the government to use the power they have to force others to follow their ideology

[@BullsBayK9]

Zak - "My methods don't work as well as other methods for aggression or reactivity so I must put an end to them being better at something" ... The veterinary organizations - "Your dog has behavioral issues, medicate them!" I agree with regulations, but I also will want to see more robust studies done rather than bias surveys and flawed/failed peer reviews as the source of "new science." You should look into the Hannover 2009 Study on Training Pressure and Stress. The goal was to compare three different training methods, their learning effects, and their effects on stress. The methods were prong collar, electronic collar, and quitting signal (non-reward, a form of resource pressure). Conclusion - electronic collar had the highest learning effect, and the lowest stress. The quitting signal (resource pressure) had the lowest learning effect (so low that it could hardly be compared), and a considerable amount of stress for the trials where the learning effect was significant. This could prove that e-collars are more humane than resource pressure, however these were done on highly motivated police dogs. If this same study was done on a large group of unmotivated dogs, it would likely show the opposite results. See the problem I have with you, Zak, is that you only find stuff to reach a narrative and seemingly control the training world for your own gain. I am all for the humane treatment of animals, but the force free/r+ movement is beyond a doubt Ludacris. There is no scientific unbias approach with your movement.

[@loyal_dogs]

That's what the radical left is doing in every aspect of life worldwide, here as well. It needs to stop.

[@AlterMego1]

I tried to look up the study but failed. Do you have a link, or the full name of the study?

[@BullsBayK9]

@@AlterMego1 elib.tiho-hannover.de/dissertations/boehmi_ss09 here's the pdf with more details: spca.bc.ca/wp-content/uploads/shock-collar-assets-Salgirli-Efficacy-and-stress-effects-between-3-training-methods.pdf

[@Keepcalmcalvin]

Can you make a video on aggressive dogs and how you train them using the new scientific data? People say postive reinforcement training doesnt work? Can you debunk this?

[@WelfareChrist]

My dog trainer has been doing it for 15 years and he told me he's never seen a dog not respond to positive reinforcement when I asked him.

[@Keepcalmcalvin]

@WelfareChrist thank you I'd like to see an positive reinforcement dog trainer take an aggressive dog and retrain it

[@dennishines9996]

Elevate standards,diversity ,inclusive , progressall these woke words... it's so cringy.

[@user-mt4no6hn3n]

You're such a good role model because you try to include everyone and you are open to dialogue. I really admire your patience and energy. Unfortunately, there will always be people who will try to portray you as incompetent and insult you. But you fight for the only right thing and most people are behind you!

[@albubelbukolme8426]

Thank you for putting into words what I’ve been feeling! This channel has been such an inspiration in many ways!😊

[@user-uv2en3in9h]

Since when IS Z.G. Open for questions and discussions? When dogtrainers ask him for Talks and discussions hes Allways hiding behind His Computer, His monolges and wordsaLads makes No sense, thats all because He has No experiences and arguments

[@JosephineATasmania]

No one should be concerned. As a certified professional dedicated to continued learning, I don’t see why it should be any different

[@JakubWalker]

Adamantly against this. The regulation will ruin this. Certifications would be a better idea. Think of hair cutters, massively over regulated for the minimal pay. It will kill independent trainers, it will make it turn into a industry of big warehouses. It will take the personal touch out of it. Like daycare regulation, it will shoot up the price and make things worse. What you are doing Zak is the best thing, please do not think bringing this to the government will be a bullhorn, it took generations to get the hard fear based training ingrained, it will take generations to get it out and make it the common sense approach.

[@sannehansen4156]

I would love to see you @zakgeorge, train an really aggressive dog of a large breed, Rottweiler or similar with clicks and cake, not just train it but follow it over let's say 1 year to see long term effect - And video document every step of the way

[@zakgeorge]

Many people don’t understand just how easy it is to prevent aggressive outbursts which is why so many people think that modern trainers don’t work with dogs who behave aggressively from time to time. We learn their triggers and how to keep them under threshold thereby preventing aggressive outbursts in the first place while we work on underlying causes. There’s been many dogs on my channel with bite histories but you are dead right that you don’t see me working with dogs behaving aggressively and that is because I know what I am doing. Remember, if you are looking for aggressive behavior in a dog to verify that a dog trainer is working with an aggressive dog, you are looking for evidence of bad dog training.

[@sannehansen4156]

I think it would be extremely interesting and instructive to show how you do it with your method, it is often not the method we are shown - if we are to learn from you, you need to show it while explaining what and how you do it

[@stevenking3149]

As the owner of 4 beautiful and very different dogs, all from puppy age, I've found a variety of techniques work. I live in Asia and ideas on training are very different here. I've found positive reinforcement can work the majority of the time. However, there are dangerous situations that I don't want my dogs to get into and sometimes the only way to make an impact on their behavior in these situations is by 'short sharp shock' training. Every animal and every human has different personalities and different responses to life's challenges. A one-way-only ideology is to me, plainly crazy.

[@zakgeorge]

No doubt there are emergency situations. However, management goes along way in those situations and in true emergencies of course we do what we need to do but I think there is confusion on management versus training in these situations. In the moment emergencies are not the time to train a dog but to keep everyone safe. Hope this helps.

[@michaelfraembs9202]

Totally agree with your statement. Positive reinforcement is the gold standard but there are absolutely instances a correction is required. Punishing a dog for lack of understanding is unjustified, however correcting a dog for misbehavior is absolutely needed. You need to be a leader for your dog and not a cookie jar. Depending on the dog a subtle tap with a flat collar could do the trick. Other dogs may require a more firm correction from a prong collar, slip lead, or E-Collar. Dogs are like people and a good trainer will know what is required for that dog. Training is NOT a one size fits all approach!

[@janhankins911]

@@michaelfraembs9202 No, training certainly isn't a one size fits all approach. However, that is NOT justification for using fear, pain, and intimidation to train ANY dog. Positive reinforcement can be used to train ANY dog and I'm sorry you don't have the experience in positive training to believe that. But my MAJOR concern is those dogs for whom you think positive training "won't work". Those are the dogs whose welfare as at risk due to your inability to change methods (or even give positive reinforcement a chance--maybe because you lack minimum educational requirements?). And if I've offended you, sorry. But YOUR feelings aren't my major concern--the DOGS whose welfare you compromise are my major concern.

[@stevenking3149]

​@@zakgeorgethank you for responding, very appreciated. In my experience, dangerous situations, such as playing with venomous snakes, (really happens here) can be good life learning experiences. For both animals. One or the other will probably die unless I teach my dogs to leave them alone. Positive reinforcement or keeping my dogs inside all night are not great management techniques. We also have numerous free range ducks and chickens in our garden and a Tom cat. They all now live harmoniously together, thanks to a wide variety of training techniques with the dogs, who are of course the most effective predator in this situation. Please be very careful in advocating a one size fits all case for dog trainers. Many dogs are working dogs and not pets. Ever increasing regulations are rarely a good thing in my experience.

[@michaelfraembs9202]

@@janhankins911 what is sad was my first 3 trainers were PP+FF and got absolutely no progress with my Dutchie. Two recommended to consult with my vet and put him on heavy medication and the other actually told me to put him down!!! Fast forward 3 years I can now take him on walks in public, have him around other people and dogs, and he can now live a good life! I wanted the best for my pup and looking back on the issues I had I feel like a total moron thinking I could fix these reactivity issues with cookies and butterflies. What’s even worse is that if you can meet your training goals with only positive reinforcement I commend you and you may very well be a better trainer than myself. 👏 I am not offended by your comment and realize you will never see my perspective but hope others don’t fall into the incorrect narrative that the PP+FF pushes on people as it once did with me.

[@lavender1893]

I’m for it, 100%. I wouldn’t go to an uneducated or unlicensed counsellor/therapist/physiotherapist/etc, why would I send my dog to one.

[@unisys12]

As a professional dog trainer myself, studying for my CPDT-KA, the way I explain Positive Reinforcement Dog Training to clients is like this, "It's all about setting a goal and showing the dog the path to get there. As their handler, trainer, and educator to the client, it's my job to make that path as stress free as possible. Our path should always be the path of least resistance, for everyone, to reach our goal." We are working hard in our community to change people's minds on this topic, but it sadly takes time. We have to remember that changing learned behaviors takes time, patience, and consistency to truly be effective.

[@JosephineATasmania]

Love this !!! “the path of least resistance”. Good words.

[@expendable4h002]

That’s a bunch of bullshit. Dogs are not equal to humans. More “academics” and intellectuals using skewed evidence to advance their value onto society. There is already a clear line between training and abuse but to create standards is absurd. Each dog is different because of their environment and their very situation has nuances. Image the government giving guidelines on how to raise your children. It’s the same exact thing.

[@JosephineATasmania]

@@expendable4h002 any reason for the coarse language on a dog training page ?

[@expendable4h002]

@@JosephineATasmania The same cancer that has infected society has tricked its way into the dog world.

[@ayakosaito7323]

@@JosephineATasmania Perhaps the coarse language is a sign of the frustration that real trainers have with inexperienced PETA puke types that are living on the corner of Clueless Ln. and Get More Views Ave.?

[@ritariordan2664]

My new Cavalier pup is currently sacked out from his first leash walk. Being his first time, I let him sniff and stop to poke a bit. He's a whopping 13 lbs at 1 year old; yes, he's a rescue. His tail was going the whole time. When we got home, he got a treat for sitting and waiting until I called him in through the open door. He's been with us a week and he's a delight to train. Would I ever consider harsh training methods? NEVER

[@zakgeorge]

Love it!

[@janhankins911]

Congratulations on your new family member and for using positive methods. Cavaliers are such wonderful dogs!!!

[@bogdandumitrache6269]

That's a dog without problems and I am happy you have it. The problems appear with dogs that have issues that these trainers are unable to train. Look at Zak's episodes with a big dog that jumped off his balcony. He was unable after having this dog for months to get that dog to walk correctly in the leash. Months!!!

[@subtonicsprite]

yes, it takes months to train a reactive dog. What would your alternative be? Are you implying he should have used some of these outdated aversive methods?

[@ritariordan2664]

@bogdanumitrache629 Agreed! I adopted a young dog in fall, 2022, that is highly reactive. He's a fear and flight reactive. And it DOES take months with relapses that again take weeks to recorrect. But that's what I signed up for when I adopted Beau. So I sit on the floor with a bag of his favorite treats and we recondition together. There are many times when it's three steps forward and one or two steps back. I don't look for blame of his anxiety reactions; I take what we have at present into consideration and deal with that positively. I know in my heart of hearts he's a wonderful dog.

[@aussieoutbackfarm]

Zak, I am so over this now. I can't keep quiet anymore. Dogs' lives are at stake because of people like you, who are perfectly capable of helping a very aggressive and fearful dog. Many people think your some little weed who doesn't care, but I don't think so. People who follow bad methods continue to do so because they don't know any other option. You won't show them. The real solution to abusive dog training methods is for YOU to show them that there IS other options. Not tell them. SHOW them.

[@zakgeorge]

I believe I have somewhere in the neighborhood of 800 to 1000 videos on my channel. We deal with dogs of all types of backgrounds and behavior issues. Have a look around!

[@aussieoutbackfarm]

@@zakgeorge I have. I just haven't been able to find any. The best I can find is the one from years back (not that that's an issue) where you were petting the dog and it snapped. That dog simply had mild insecurity which with some treats and relationship building, will go away. But I've NEVER seen you help a dog that was ordinarily going to be put down. I totally get and agree about not letting the dog show the bad behavior, but still, I've never seen you work with dogs like those so shut down and scared that they won't even take treats. Please refer to the exact videos you are talking about. I would LOVE to see them. P.S. I have liked your comment to me because it seems to me that although you are tackling things the total wrong way, it seems to me as though you really do care about dogs, just like myself. I'm sure we both want the best for our canine companions.

[@zakgeorge]

@@aussieoutbackfarm what’s difficult to convey to the novice is that aggressive behavior being displayed is evidence of non-ideal dog training. Skilled dog trainers know how to keep this behavior from emerging. We do not need to see it in order to address it. In the instance you are referring to that was indeed trainer error and I could easily provoke dogs to snap in a very significant percentage of my videos. Typically when you see dogs reacting in a video with a dog trainer in an aggressive fashion it is due to careless handling.

[@aussieoutbackfarm]

@rge Hi Zak, I appreciate your reply. I totally understand about not letting the dog show unwanted behavior, but that's still besides the point. You've never shown a dog that's on death row due to behavioral issues, and you've never shown a dog that's so fearful it won't take treats, won't get out of the crate. Extreme stuff like that is what I help dogs with. It does take a lot of skill, patience, experience etc.. Just as a suggestion, take a family dog that is going to be put down due to behavioral issues, and help it in whatever way you do. You don't have to show the bad behavior, knowing the dog's on death row is more than enough! Then document the progress. Then people would start to give you more credit. :)

[@jpaleblue]

@@zakgeorge False.

[@TacTwo]

I like the idea of some standardization in the animal training field... and it seems blatantly obvious that should have been a thing already.

[@coreymorrow5187]

My question is simply why? There are many reasons and many different ways to “train” an animal. It is often that “bad” actors that shine a negative spotlight on techniques used. Ask yourself is there truly a positive only way? IMO there is not… I think of it like this… if you withhold a reward that the dog wants you are thereby indirectly responsible for causing stress in the animal. Albeit it is the least averse method it is still a type of punishment.

[@zakgeorge]

There are many trainers who are violent towards dogs in the name of training. This is far more common than the general public realizes. When we treat dogs violently, we increase the odds that they behave violently towards animals and members of the public. There are side effects when we use suppression techniques on dogs that most people are not aware of.

[@coreymorrow5187]

@@zakgeorge while I don’t disagree with that, adding more and more “rules and regulations” will not curve those actors. It just the way our society is today.

[@KS-yv7tw]

Yes, you can be truly positive and be successful. I let my dog make choices, let her think and work things out without letting her become frustrated because I’m still setting her up for success. There is definitely no stress involved in asking your dog to try again. You CAN be kind and make tasks fun at the same time.

[@planetaoruga]

@@coreymorrow5187 It will impose sanctions on those actors, therefore desinsentivicing the same behaviour for the rest

[@carolshang]

​@zakgeorge ask any people who has a lot of experience with huge strong dog. All of them will agree positive only method is just a joke. joke.if I don't use suppression my dog is out control.

[@ttv_Simply_Soph]

I am 100% behind evidence-based, positive reinforcement training being the accepted and regulated practice. I am concerned about educational requirements that go beyond a test or certification, as that will pose a barrier to entry for otherwise stellar animal behaviorists that do not have the economic background to afford higher level education. If there is an educational requirement there will also be a corresponding rise in the cost of training, which means that less people AND LESS ANIMALS will have access to the help and training they need. That means more animals ending up in shelters, or worse.

[@ilovemyfurrykids6607]

❤🐾 It's wonderful that more people are coming to realize the difference between dog training vs pain inflicting nonsense!

[@zakgeorge]

Agree! Still an uphill challenge though.

[@purecountry6672]

It's crazy though that people are concentrating on government enforcing more laws yet smile as they piss away billions in foreign countries. Money that would keep all dogs and all citizens of this country sheltered and fed. I guess looking at the bigger picture isn't in the leftist playbook. Also, yes, don't mistreat animals or people unprovoked, obviously.

[@Ghost_King108]

It's going to take time but I hope with the next coming generation we can leave pain-inflicted “training” in the past

[@dougwelch8098]

While I applaud the position of science based training techniques and humane standards of training, I always worry about words like "mandatory" & "certification process for all animal training professionals." Mandatory? By whom and to whose standards? The Amercian College of Veterinary Behaviorists' Certification, listed on their website, requires a degree from an accredited university with an intern rotation, residency, a published peer reviewed paper and more. If not them, who? A State veterinary board? Or an appointed organization overseeing a permitting process intent on collecting fees for the state, county or city general fund? I started training decades ago where force and intimidation were the norm. My training has changed through evidence and science based results. It continues to change daily as I learn and interact with the dogs and owners I serve. Zak, do you have a degree in snimal behavior? Are you a member of an organization whose only requirement is an annual membership fee? (I have been a member of a couple.) You are correct, further dialogue is needed. Calling out bad training techniques, especially on KZbin, might be the better way of shining light on the problems and problem trainers.

[@zakgeorge]

All great questions and things that need to be worked out. I do not believe that someone needs to have extremely high education to be a dog trainer. Rather, a common sense certification or licensing course that takes a few months or less would go a very long way to keeping violent dog trainers out of our profession.

[@janhankins911]

First of all, those are the standards for "veterinary behaviorists". Not all trainers or behavior consultants are "veterinary behaviorists" and would not be held to those standards. But we MUST have some standards for all trainers/behavior consultants. Other professions have standards and licensure requirements (thankfully--I don't know about you, but frankly, I prefer a doctor who has actually attended and graduated from medical school; I prefer a lawyer who has actually attended and graduated from law school, and I certainly hope that engineer who built the bridge I"m about to drive over has some minimum education in engineering so that the bridge won't collapse while I'm driving over it). Yes, we could have a "grandfather" clause for people who don't meet minimum standards when the licensure becomes effective, but those people would need to DEMONSTRATE (both in written form and in performance) that they deserve to be licensed. I'm sorry if some people would need to go back to school or would need to find another career, but this is ESSENTIAL.

[@a.safe.home.3656]

This is very exciting! You must feel good at being a part of causing some of the changing in this arena. My standard poodle will be 2 next month and is such a joy due to all her training which started with watching your videos before we even got her. Thank you both so much!

[@dnbaddictsanon5962]

Right, so Barry Manilow is a now a self-proclaimed “dog trainer”? I’ve seen it all.

[@Sharon-pf2te]

So happy for these changes. This was needed years ago. I hope these so called trainers on KZbin will have to be regulated.

[@vgfjr505]

The problem is that there are no guidelines or national certification. So cruel animal training practices go on; and dog owners don’t know better until it’s too late and the dog is damaged.

[@woofcity6307]

I’m fine if they require a certification class to buy e-collar. That would cut down on a lot of the ignorance. But it can be a life-saving tool in certain situations. There’s probably about as much cruel dog training out there as there is cruel, child rearing, you probably train your dog similarly to how you train your kids. We live in a pretty violent society. I’m just telling it like it is. I think if we reduce force On children, the less likely they will want to use it on animals. But to keep them from running out in the road that is a decision based on comparable harm.

[@adventurousdoglover]

I’m hoping to get certified this year but after training for almost 15 years I can tell you I have never needed to use any other tool besides a leash and collar and even then have learned how to appropriately working train them fear and force freeway and still get fantastic results. I know train service dogs and love helping people and showing them how to train in positive ways without adversive tools and forcing things to get done. I train similar to Zac and see great results!

[@kristinahewer6982]

You are a shining light Zak. When you mention pain,fear snd intimidation I think further of our human penal system and cry. 😺💜☮️

[@Darhar_at_PPR]

Hey Zak! Do you have a top recommended certification program?

[@LyranSoul]

He got his at Pets Smart lol.

[@WilliamHortonll]

As an individual with multiple rescue Great Danes, I still after several years with some, encounter past abuse responses from their prior rescue lives. Seeing a 160 pound beautiful girl shaking and cringing in a corner from seeing a raised toy remote that resembles the ones with the "training" collars that shock, or another playful and loving one drop to the ground shaking and curled in a ball from seeing a muzzle that someone who was well meaning brought over, brought me an awareness of the impact outdated practices have, especially when combined with fear and force.

[@Ghost_King108]

Can we just accept that positive reinforcement training works and isn't bullshit? Thank you Zak for helping dogs, and helping people realize this works! ❤️

[@Emeraldnotte]

Could you show us how to train your dog for a chair bound person?

[@kavitadeva]

I know how IMPORTANT this is. But Zak it's getting old. I use a STIM COLLAR, NOT a Shock COLLAR. It's a tool to get my dog to pay attention. It is NOT painful at all. Also remember science based means nothing really. Because in time that scientific proof will change again. You're not as enjoyable. Practice what you preach, as you used to do!!❤❤

[@a.e.s.n.]

Exactly 💯

[@bogdandumitrache6269]

He never did. I have yet to see Zak train a problematic dog to behave correctly.

[@needmoresnacks]

That is definitely not how science works.

[@subtonicsprite]

If you need an E collar to get your dog's attention, you haven't trained them effectively. Thats a crutch. Maybe the reason you find Zak "less enjoyable" these days is because his advice is a reminder of your failure.

[@kavitadeva]

@@subtonicsprite not interested. You don't train dogs. Positive reinforcement training CANNOT and Zak cannot train a massively AGGRESSIVE DOG. Treats don't work for everyone. Plus, you were very rude in your reply. That showed me exactly why I'm not interested in your Opinion.

[@JohnnyJenkins]

Does this mean they’re against using e collars? I love it when progressives say “it’s for the best inclusiveness” but then say if u don’t do as we say you’ll suffer.

[@mr.niceguy4056]

No, you'll just be "on the wrong side of history". Every time I hear that I know that "inclusive dialogue" is not going to happen.

[@brknglasses2734]

Would you want to wear something that shocks YOU when you're scared? Out of touch luddites are the only people who try to use progressives as a derogatory term. I feel sorry for whatever dog is trapped with you.

[@jesss274]

Thank you Zak and Bree for your advocacy. I can imagine all the thankful happy tail wags🐶❤️

[@zakgeorge]

Thank you.

[@ktyler90kt]

It should be like passing the BAR for practicing Law. The way it is setup is too vague and not a standardized certification. I understand different practices of varying methods. However, there should exist a standard to understanding certfiable methods and, post certification, embrace your practice methods thereafter.

[@Patsagilitybits]

Here in the UK we have been moving towards positive dog training for several years. The use of electric collars are now banned in England and Wales. I think most people are looking for qualified trainers now, and that's only right. Some of them are charging very high prices and naturally people want to know that they're getting value for their money. Sadly, my go to trainer has died from cancer at a young age. She not only had a wealth of experience, but she was constantly updating her knowledge and undertaking more training courses herself. This is the kind of standard people want. I hope the dog training revolution continues to flourish. You're doing a great job.

[@panda17284]

They should also ban prong collars

[@Patsagilitybits]

@@panda17284 completely agree. I've never met anyone in the UK who has used one, and I haven't heard of any British trainer who advocates them. I would be interested to know if anyone on here knows anything different.

[@Patsagilitybits]

Just to add, the police in the UK used to use horribly cruel methods of dog training. The RSPCA would not rehome any dogs to them whilst these cruel practices went on. They successfully prosecuted three police officers who had used brutality to keep the dogs under control. I don't know if they have lifted the ban on rehoming dogs to them, but I know they were considering it after the Animal Welfare act became law.

[@RosyHaynes]

Hi, not true! sadly e-collars are not banned in England, the proposed change did not go through in February. If you feel strongly please be aware, keep lobbying to get the Govt to stop stalling and get it ratified

[@Patsagilitybits]

@@RosyHaynes that is sad. The government still remains committed to the ban and it will be introduced as soon as parliamentary time allows. The draft legislation is in place.

[@lisadaniels6020]

I am totally all about positive animal training. My new career is training service Dogs. There are such a large group of people needing a service dog. My worries are this initiative forcing all trainers to have to get a college degree to train a dog legally. As it reads it makes me Leary. I don’t believe people need degrees to turn out some really well trained dogs that are sorely needed for the disabled population.

[@zakgeorge]

I don’t believe a college degree will be necessary to be a dog trainer under regulation. We simply need some common sense baseline education for those that advise the public about training dogs.

[@LG2022xv]

if you had any credibility it's all but gone as you keep on with your vicious attacks on Dog Daddy and other trainers. Cant make your own way so have to put others down.Pathetic

[@spokehamilton6624]

Dear Zak, We hope this message finds you well. We wanted to take a moment to express our deepest appreciation for the work you’ve done as a dog trainer. Your expertise and dedication have not gone unnoticed. You have a unique ability to understand and communicate with dogs, which is truly remarkable. Your methods are effective, and the progress we’ve seen is a testament to your skills. You’ve not only trained our dogs but also taught us how to better interact with them. Your passion for what you do is evident in every training session. You’ve turned what could be a challenging process into an enjoyable experience for both us and our dogs. In our eyes, you are the best dog trainer. We are grateful for your hard work and commitment. Thank you, Zak, for everything you do."

[@zakgeorge]

That’s very nice nice. Thank you very much.

[@philipraposo8324]

except he is not a cert. dog trainer

[@AdventuresofKardi]

AMEN!! I am behind this 100+% The word needs to get out in a very big way. Not just with trainers, but with groomers and vet techs and boarding facilities AND Rescues and shelters. These 'professionals' often care deeply about dogs but have not been required to educate themselves, despite the many, many opportunities to do so. Making an appropriate education in each of these fields required would change the lives of virtually all dogs. It would also improve the lives and experiences of all those who have dogs in their lives one way or another. It's time.

[@serendipitysisters84]

Hello Zak! This might sound very strange, but please make a video about what training is! So… some different family members have ended up with puppies (now 1 year) due to another memer’s bad decision, and they have refused to train them out of ignorance. AFTER A YEAR of trying to help them (which recently involved sending your videos and also demonstrating these videos to them to show that the dogs can be trained). BUT YET, they still don’t get it. Maybe a video that is on the MOST SIMPLE THINGS for those who really don’t understand this stuff. Perhaps, what is a training session, how, when, where, why? Does it have to be a big deal? Of course, your videos explain all of this, but it is going over the heads of some. It’s like how I am apart of a Bible study, and you can teach the same lesson to someone again and again and they still won’t get it until it’s broken down or said a different way. Everyone is so different and some people aren’t learning what we think they may be learning. I hope that made some sense! 😅❤

[@zakgeorge]

This is what my playlists are designed for. Best of luck! Thanks for thinking of me!

[@subtonicsprite]

It doesnt sound like they dont understand, it sounds like they dont care. No different way of wording things is going to fix that. The way to fix that is to get those dogs to better owners who will care for them.

[@user-eg7dk8vh2o]

The problem with the outdated training isn't the training itself it's the fact that people don't know how to use the tools that they're using and overcorrect their dogs we need to teach them properly how to use the equipment that is available and how to have more patience when it comes to training rather than over correcting your dog and I will say this I use e-callers but the way that I use it is I don't and hopefully won't ever have to use the shock button My dogs listen quite well to a beep noise or a little vibrate if they are doing recall I also use prong collars because I have two breeds that are extremely strong and will pull me down the street what I will say is one your prong collar should be properly fitted to your dog correctly a prong collar should never sit where a normal martingale color sits on your dog that is how you destroy their throat and causes them to have problems breathing I also want to add that not all harnesses are good for dogs if I put a fucking harnessed on my husky he will drag me 5 and 1/2 blocks just like parenting there are multiple ways that you can train your dog it doesn't always have to be this way or that way and the corrections don't always have to be so intense versus a light correction something like a timeout in the crate or annoys My dogs have a certain noise that they know that that means mom doesn't like what I'm doing you guys get yourselves so been out of shape trying to control what other people do honestly all you can do is worry about yourself trust me karma is a thing she'll get around

[@LilFoxyCosplay]

Youre doing such a good job i did a survey for college using one of your videos and most people agreed force free training is more effective

[@trishwhitehouse6536]

Well, it’s about time!

[@jrodgers674]

sounds good to me. the farther we move away from cesar millan types of trainers and their barbaric methods the better off we and our fuzzy little family members are. Listen to Zach folks, i have been following his advice for years now and i KNOW i not only have a dog that is well trained, but i have a better relationship with her because of this man's methodology. Carry on Zach you really are doing great work.

[@checklostandfound]

IT WILL MAKE DOG’S TRAINING EVEN LESS ACCESSIBLE official certifications and policing the field puts barriers and raises the associated costs making access to dog trainers, that is already prohibitively expensive to many, totally out of reach if you don’t have much money. This is the reason ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) does not require any certifications for those training service dogs. We should be making becoming a dog trainer so accessible that every dog owner can educate themselves to become their own dog’s trainer. That’s a worthy goal, not regulation through state and gate keeping with certifications.

[@zakgeorge]

Totally agree on many points here. But the stuff that passes as dog training for at least 50% of the industry if not more is unacceptable and represents a public health and safety risk.

[@ttv_Simply_Soph]

@@zakgeorge Yep, my thoughts exactly. I would think that a one-time test/certification process of maybe $100-$200 would be reasonable to show that a trainer uses the approved methodology, and cracking down on trainers who are abusive, but requiring higher education?? 2 of my favorite trainers are self-taught and unless you're in the big leagues dog training doesn't exactly pay a graduate-level salary.

[@subtonicsprite]

starting a business costs money. And being an expert in a field requires training. What do you suggest? Just letting people abuse dogs and pass on incorrect information? Because thats whats happening now.

[@karstentopp]

Long overdue! But it won't keep grifters and charlatans out of the business unless the general public gets involved.

[@zakgeorge]

Agree.

[@aussieoutbackfarm]

@@zakgeorge I am so over this now. I can't keep quiet anymore. Dogs' lives are at stake because of people like you, who are perfectly capable of helping a very aggressive and fearful dog. Many people think your some little weed who doesn't care, but I don't think so. People who follow bad methods continue to do so because they don't know any other option. You won't show them. The real solution to abusive dog training methods is for YOU to show them that there IS other options. Not tell them. SHOW them.

[@janhankins911]

@@aussieoutbackfarm Okay, how does dog NOT show them? Because he doesn't get a dog that has demonstrated aggressive behavior and the let it go around demonstrating aggressive behavior? That would Zak is a BAD dog trainer. See my earlier comments to someone who made a comment similar to those on WHY you don't want to let a dog exhibit aggressive behavior. Just because a GOOD training doesn't let a dog get over threshold and exhibit aggression doesn't mean the dog isn't aggressive. I get tired of people NOT having the education to UNDERSTAND that GOOD trainers don't let dogs get over threshold. Please STOP telling Zak he won't take aggressive dogs because he HAS and if you can't figure that out, then, I'm sorry for you.

[@aussieoutbackfarm]

@@janhankins911 I appreciate your concern. Yes I totally agree about not letting a dog show bad behavior, but as a dog trainer, I know that the dogs he works with don't have extreme issues of fear and aggression. I mean for example a dog who's properly attacked another dog, or a dog so scared they just refuse to take treats and are completely shut down. The best I've seen from him is the dog that snapped a bit when he petted it. That dog had a small insecurity, but nothing more. A bit of relationship building and treats deals with that. Furthermore, to my current knowledge, Zak has never saved a dog from being put down.

[@janhankins911]

@@aussieoutbackfarm Well I HAVE saved a dog from being pet down (quite a few, actually, as I work with rescue dogs--many of whom are "death row dogs"). I have worked with dogs so scared they refuse to take treats and are totally shut down. And YOU use aversive methods on those dogs????????? We ended up adopting a Great Dane that was so scared she wouldn't take a treat and was shut down--until someone got near her and then she became a snarling, snapping, lunging, 125-pound killer (no, she never killed anyone, but she easily could have). I used POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT ONLY on her. In truth, that would make for very BORING TV. You have to work very slowly with those dogs even using positive reinforcement, you must gain their trust. You just shut them down even further and scar them more if you use aersive methods on them. She was slated to be put down ("dangerous dog") and we took her under the stipulation that we keep her (which we did--she wasn't a good candidate for most "normal" homes) and manage her (she did require management for the rest of her life--and not because positive reinforcement FAILED, but because her fear was so extreme). She was perfectly SAFE after I worked with her (but she never went for walks--that TERRIFIED her and she shut down, so we "managed" her). I worked with a dog that had bitten 3 children (next bite, the dog was to be taken away from the owner, an elderly widow, and put down). I used POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT ONLY with this dog. He never bit another child--no, he was never a huge lover of children, but he was able to see/pass chidren on walks, he was able to accept petting from the owner's grandchildren (who were taught that when the dog went to "his" place, they were to leave him alone--not pet him or talk to him--so he had a place to retreat to to get away from the kids). That's two dogs right there that were to be euthanized that I used positve reinforcement on and it worked like a dream (I NEVER would have used aversive methods on either of those dogs--but then I would never use aversive methods on ANY dogs). Do those dogs meet your "definition" or aren't they "bad enough"? BTW, we DID take in one Irish Wolfound (150 pound female) that was EXTREMELY aggressive (I don't usually call dogs "aggressive", but there is no other way to describe her). She would EXPLODE with NO warning. We couldn't save her because she had a BRAIN TUMOR. She was suffering. That meet your exacting standards?

[@alishal6031]

I can't WAIT for people to shift over to positive reinforcement training, especially for horses. The amount of abuse in that industry is huge and the fact that it's deemed completely acceptable is even worse. Positive reinforcement training saved my relationship with my dog by helping me reframe my mindset completely. Instead of always expecting her to listen to me, I know I need to listen to her first and work with her instead of against her. Thanks for this video!

[@Ghost_King108]

Yes, as someone in both the horse world and dog training world, I screamed at this video out of excitement

[@SignalZeroK9]

Its good to know that your dog controls you and not the other way around! that's awesome! Come spend some time with my dutch shepherd let me know how it works out for you.

[@alishal6031]

@@SignalZeroK9 I'm more commenting on the fact that R+ needs to be implemented in the horse world because the general welfare of horses is just sad. I don't doubt that it's a case by case basis. For my dog, balance training just didn't work and I won't be using it on other dogs but I'm sure it works for others and if it does, that's great!

[@mdw908]

@@SignalZeroK9 Another "control freak". 🙄Very shallow perspective.

[@SignalZeroK9]

@@mdw908 How many dogs have you trained? How long did you work with MWD’s? How long did you work with Police dogs? How many “aggressive dogs have you helped? You don’t have any perspective at all because you don’t know what the fuck you’re talking about.

[@EW-ed6kd]

It’s sad that people will be against this despite it literally being endorsed by THE professionals of dog behavior (veterinary behaviorists).

[@bogdandumitrache6269]

Are these specialists the same that endorse young kids under 14 years to get chemically castrated and their sexual organs removed? Yey, we must be on the right path then...

[@dutchessbeautysalon]

Why not join forces for a work seminar to help people with aggressive dogs with issues, Professionals guiding and helping other so-called professionals were to donate their time and offer help instead of judging, other people trying to keep dogs from being euthanized. This world would be a better place. Of course the mighty dollar always rules, if there is no money to be made let us find a way to get more subscribers on KZbin. Of course, the animal will always pay the price with its life because animals are not greedy for money only the greedy ones seek monetary value

[@a.e.s.n.]

I agree..there have been many other dog trainers that have wanted to come together with Zak George and talk. He never will.

[@janhankins911]

I have something of a unique perspective. When I started training my own dogs many, many years ago, aversive methods were "the" way you trained dogs. Period. That's how it was. Then along came a lady by the name of Karen Pryor and she turned the dog training world on its head. As soon as I learned that there was an alternative, I wanted to try it (because I was never completely comfortable using aversive methods). I was hooked immediately. The use of positive methods completely changed my relationship with my dogs and it made me feel like I was a better guardian (I wasn't hurting, frightening, and intimidating them any longer). It made me feel like I was a better person, it made me feel better about myself. So I'm a convert and will NEVER go back to aversive methods. The fact that we now have SCIENCE to validate positive methods is a huge plus (at least it is in my opinion). I am ALL for having professional standards and having trainers and other animal professionals meet minimum educational and professional criteria. I am ALL for requiring all animal professionals (not just veterinarians and veterinary technicians and veterinary nurses) having to earn continuing educational credits. I'm sorry if some people will find themselves out of the field if they must be licensed and meet minimum educational requirements. But those who don't meet those standards may be a danger to, not only the animals with whom they work, but the animals' guardians and the general public as well. Those who wish to remain in the field but lack the minimum standards for licensure should be given the opportunity to achieve those minimum standards (if they wish to, or if they are completely unwilling to learn a new and scientific approach to animal training/animal welfare, perhaps they should find another career). We could even have a "grandfather" type clause, for those folks who, perhaps, don't meet minimum educational requirements, would need to demonstrate in both written and performance-based testing that they qualify for licensure. We have licensure exams for many other professionals--doctors, veterinarians, even hair dressers (let's face it, a horrible hair cut is not a great thing, but hair grows back; once you harm a dog, you may not be able to undo what you've done). I believe we need the same thing for trainers and behavior consultants.

[@CampDavidTraining]

Karen Pryor was a complete fraud, and anything that didn’t fall within the all positive agenda was ignored. Not to mention that Karen Praire did not actually train any dogs other than her own, and maybe a few handpicked demonstrators, that would never exhibit the kind of behaviors that her limited abilities couldwork with. In short, she had a method to sell, and anything that was found to be a behavior where that method was ineffective was ignored, or merely talked about as if it was solvable with no demonstration whatsoever

[@georgepapabeis2964]

The carrot, the stick, and "shifting the attitude".

[@PHOENIXDOGTRAINING]

If only Germany had been able to do this, the question is why. Would love to see it happen in the US but highly unlikely anytime soon. The industry is way too fractured and with all the infighting no way to bring all the parties together. I’ve been in the field for 35 years, I’m 58 years old, I do not expect this to happen in the United States within my lifetime.

[@zakgeorge]

Time will tell!

[@janhankins911]

I hope you're wrong, but the pessimistic side of myself agrees with you.

[@Kaltag2278]

I'm self taught and would never be able to afford schooling but I'm 100% into this.

[@ttv_Simply_Soph]

This is my main concern, honestly. I am all for certification and professional standards of care (i.e. R+), but the educational component seems unreasonable and cost prohibitive to trainers (and therefore animal guardians once the cost of training reflects the cost of education).

[@Kaltag2278]

@@ttv_Simply_Soph I agree, my prices are low partly because I don't have the extra costs associated. My hope is that if those things are required, there will be a free / low cost "test out" option or something similar.

[@grlluigi]

so excited, i hope this brings change

[@loveyall5080]

It is so important to stop using these dominant "training" methods! Hipefully this movement will help people to understand how important a bond of trust is with our animals! ❤️ 🐾Though we do need to keep in mind a balance between good management over over-indulgence. And as an up and coming trainer Im a little nervous to see how these restrictions affect my getting into this career...

[@expendable4h002]

What people are failing to see is the about these new methods is that there is no discipline or corrective measures allowed. As that is deemed too aggressive. Have you ever met an adult that was spoiled rotten as a child? Thats because there was never any discipline. This will not last and the results work.

[@LimitlessJayson]

if the government starts dictating how i should train my dog im just gonna leave this is a whole can of bullshit i hope the 2nd ammendment "my guns my rights" gang will stand up for this shit too

[@a.e.s.n.]

Facts ! 👌

[@zakgeorge]

Our Lane is professional animal trainers not the every day public.

[@LimitlessJayson]

what does this mean bro i feel like youre being a cryptic@@zakgeorge

[@rico4you]

You have finally decided to stop your Bullying? This goes beyond Dogs and Real Dog Training!!

[@susiemejia7917]

I support this completely.

[@Songlufia]

I’m having trouble making my puppy sit

[@user-ir5lw3kk4r]

Therapy dog!!! kzbin.info/www/bejne/amWVgpSpgJhmhposi=ahW3iCxOUIdVWC_z

[@bogdandumitrache6269]

I'm sorry but I have to say something that it's obvious but other traditional traininers avoid saying because of this politically correctness that invaded this industry as well. I have yet to see you, Zak, being able to train a difficult dog to stop pulling on the leash and to walk near you in a partnership. The dog that you delivered in the end to some unfortunate family, the one that jumped from your balcony is a clear example of your obvious failure in your training doctrine. I am ashamed that you had the nerve to give that dog in such a problematic state to another owner. And now you want to regulate what? Based on what? That you have a channel of vegan trainers that are unable to train difficult dogs? Frankly, you are a shame to this industry and a promoter of habits that are going to be bad on the long term for dogs, because all those bad temperaments will blow and we will see more and more dogs ending up and getting killed in shelters. I wish other traditional trainers would be more honest and courageous about this and call you for the trainer of easy dogs that you are.

[@zakgeorge]

Ok fine. But what does this have to do with establishing standards in animal training that don’t require pain, fear and intimidation as a teaching strategy? No one is saying that we need to train Zak George’s way. Experts in the field are trying to sound the alarm to the general public that they are being misled by unqualified trainers in the industry who recommend violent methods that have very real side effects and are a detriment to public safety.

[@Lincsdrycarpets]

There are problems caused with positive reinforcement as well though isn’t there! Correcting your dog on a lead or tool is not violence is it, the words you guys use are just ridiculous man. You all need to wake up and smell the roses it’s over the top nonsense! Go on Beckmans podcast zak, you’ve been invited!!! I really used to like you and watching your videos but lately you’ve gone down a weird path get back to yourself and what you actually believe in my friend! I was very surprised by the way you were yanking and abusing that poor cane corso pup teaching him lead pressure very bad really. that dog looked upset and frightened to me, violent and abusive outdated methods Zak, not good!

[@bogdandumitrache6269]

@@zakgeorgesorry to respond so late, I'm not a proficient YT user and I just noticed your reply. Some experts in the field have been part of commercial interests for long now. And we understand how some of the things they promote can impact sale volumes of companies in this industry. Let's not shoot out expert in the air as a command for our brains to ingurgitate anything. I am not going to promote abuse for sure. But I am also out of tolerance for anthropomorphic approaches in dog training which are as abusive as any. Having a dog for too long in a state of uncertainty, of lack of directions and rules is as abusive as any. We, as humans appreciate that we cannot solve anything just with positive reinforcement so why do we have the audacity to say something else about animals? Again, I am not talking about the zero problem dogs. I am protecting the ones that have problems, that cannot be trained only with positive reinforcement and end up killed in shelters. Look at this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/gXmllmOgiZuGabc about how a mother dog communicates and creates boundaries and respect with her puppies and tell me that she's stupid, abusive, violent and that you know how to communicate with her puppies better. You cannot take out tools from the toolkit just because it sounds better, deprive the problem dogs from taking use in the training sessions of these tools to become better partners of their humans. You cannot act as a saint on the better part of the deal and let only euthanasia for the other unfortunate dogs. Sorry but you, with all the best intentions in your heart, I know, have wondered too far from the dog way into the people way. Let the dogs be dogs and let the training of dogs be training of dogs.

[@jeanneniemiec5191]

👍

[@fishhugify]

I think it's important to see other people talking about this new regulation as the majority of people who watch your video's agree with you

[@suefrompa2567]

This is rich - "engage in an important and meaningful dialog"? - coming from someone who has been invited by numerous dog trainers to join them on their podcasts for discussions, and you have repeatedly refused. You are not interested in having a dialog, Zak.

[@a.e.s.n.]

Exactly. It's all about forcing his religion on everyone

[@zakgeorge]

I am happy to engage and dialogue with those who participate in good faith. Trainers who double down on choking and shocking dogs are not acting in good faith.

[@LyranSoul]

In other words, if they don't drink your kool aid and kiss your ass lol. Not fooling anyone.

[@LyranSoul]

He only talks to those who drink his kool aid and praise and agree with him 😂.

[@suefrompa2567]

​@@zakgeorge There you go with your sensationalism - violent methods, choking, shocking - you may use those words to describe Dog Daddy - but I am not including him in the trainers that have invited you to have a fair dialog on their podcasts. What's the deal - do you think they are going to ambush you? There are several that I am sure would be fair, but you have no interest in an in-person face-to-face - only your 'vlogs' that you did a while back with some of them. A ridiculous way to truly communicate, if you ask me. I watch several other trainer's podcasts, and I'm sure any of them would talk to you in good faith - but you are not open to discuss anyone's opinion but your own. Maybe in-person communication doesn't seem to be your thing - afraid someone might challenge you on something and not have a reply that doesn't seem to be a cut-and-paste answer? Ok - I've rambled on enough . . .

[@youngchuchu08]

❤❤❤love you for loving furry kids

[@anonymousaccount8505]

WE WINNEN

[@victorreynaga1805]

So if a dog is agressive and cant be trained using positive only methods what are you going to do? Not even attempt to use balanced or correction methods? Just say there is something wrong with the poor Dog mentally and put them down?

[@victorreynaga1805]

this is what i dont understand, i would love if positive only methods worked with every dog, but i feel like it just simply wont, then what?

[@zakgeorge]

This is a common misconception. Violent methods towards dogs do not address underlying causes. Any behavior can be stopped with responsible management and competent professional advice including counterconditioning, responsible management, exercise, desensitization, medication in some instances. But it’s wishful thinking to believe that dogs can truly be changed by training them violently.

[@KS-yv7tw]

Of course positive methods work with every dog. They work with every animal. You just need to know what you’re doing.

[@victorreynaga1805]

@@zakgeorge then we would all love to see you use positive reinforcement to help someone train their aggressive dog… because I haven’t seen a single video of someone accomplishing that. It would be awesome for you to show it’s possible. The only trainers I’ve seen tackle those types of dogs are balanced trainers.

[@janhankins911]

No, you don't need to put the dog down. That's a ridiculous statement. Just because you don't apply a method correctly, you can't say the method doesn't work. WHENEVER I find positive training "doesn't work", it means I am doing something WRONG--I am making a mistake, I am not applying it correctly. Maybe you should figure out YOUR mistake and apply the method CORRECTLY.

[@belove1230]

Beautiful 🥹

[@zakgeorge]

Thank you! 😊

[@belove1230]

@@zakgeorge of course. THANK YOU!!!

[@checklostandfound]

BALANCED APPROACH I love and respect science and find last decade of insight into animal cognition amazing. We should also acknowledge and NOT reject proven solutions that allow safely and immediately to get results, like using prongs. While it’s true that aversive tools don’t address underlying problems, they allow owners to manage their pet. Problem is that most owners were fine with management, not realizing they need to NOW FOLLOW THROUGH and address the underlying emotions. Positive reinforcement training takes time. We should recommend it to all puppy owners as only solution, but give owners of adult dog’s tools to manage their pet if appropriate, while they work with their dog’s to socialize and build confidence and obedience training. It’s combining science and practical solutions that will help most dog’s and owners have good relationships and fulfilling lives.

[@zakgeorge]

I really appreciate you acknowledging how important management is and making sure that people have the ability to do that. I also think we need to explore ways to manage dogs without prong collars. For example modern behaviorists will recommend Martingale collars with difficult to manage dogs. But totally agree that the more we learn the better professionals we can become!

[@marya6445]

My Frenchie approves of this message

[@Modm1]

Thibsis great news, would live to see something lije this implemented over this side of the Atlantic,especially since they UK are banning the sale of shock collars hopefully Ireland will start to pay attention to modern animal welfare issues.

[@harryslater2587]

Just what we need more regulation. You can have progress without regulation. Total nonsense

[@alexsarbu3978]

It's not only about outdated practices (although these indeed do much harm, particularly when abused). Even the people attempting to be "force free" but not putting the effort will be forced to improve. It's a win-win.

[@henrikjohansen7324]

If you really want to facilitate a dialog and "move animal training forward" you probably should pay more attention to your rhetoric. Playing Zac, the high priest in the church of force free training while calling upon your following of positive-only fundamentalists to wage holy war against the infidels who have doubts about the 100% absolut holyness of force free training is ... hillarious 😂 This is not about inclusion or "moving animal training forward" ... this is purely about convincing the entire world that your god is the only true god in existence 😂

[@zakgeorge]

Interesting perspective 🤔

[@mdummy]

Huh?

[@plsdi111]

I thought you finally upload a video after a month of silence, where you show us how you remove unwanted behaviours by using only positive reinforcement, rather than just talking about it. Deep in my heart I knew that it wont happan. “Surprising”. Also funny to hear “human way”, as our human society is full of positive punishment, negative reinforcement. When you don’t use your seatbelt, and you car beeps until you do use it, it’s negative reinforcement. When you’re speeding and you get a ticket, it’s positive punishment. When we train our dogs, we suddenly forget about the importance of telling the dog what not to do as well, for some funny reason.

[@zakgeorge]

I have uploaded many videos on exactly this very recently recently. So perhaps you missed them?

[@plsdi111]

@rge I haven't missed your uploads. I see short videos where you play with treats and toys in environments with low distractions, or I see videos where you couldn't achieve results. Perfect example: Chop series, where you sit with the dog from a hundred meters away from other dogs because he's dog reactive. Perfect example of just an excited dog without having the rules of what not to do. In comparison: a trainer who combines positive reinforcement with negative reinforcement and positive punishment can achieve much more results in 1-2 sessions. I can send you a crazy amount of video evidence of it. Do they use corrections? Yes in the really early stages. After communicating these rules they only use positive reinforcement. I find it much more realistic in situation where the owner, the dog and anyone around them are in danger. These trainers may use aversive methods, but you see happy dogs and owners at the end of the progress. At the end of a much shorter progress, probably 1-2 sessions with a similar dog like chop was. You tell people to be patient, because with time you can reduce that distance, but you as a dog trainer, you who can do it full time as a job, can not give this amount of time to solve the problem. But expect that people, clients and followers have, if time even solves this problem. Maybe, I haven’t seen a single content about it, from A to Z. It's also funny, that you don't react to the part of the comment which is really about methods, and dog training. :) I don't have problem with you, saying that you teach the way you do. Do that. You can train puppies like that, you can teach funny tricks like that. But saying that this is the only way to do it, saying that trainers who use aversive methods in the early stages are animal abusers, saying that reducing the toolbox to positive reinforcement is the perfect way with any problematic dog behaviour is just ridiculous. I think that you could be a really valuable content creator, that's why I exactly know your videos, and your content. My problem is that rather than doing this really valuable stuff you criticize amazing trainers who make dogs and clients really happy. Trainers who use different methods than you, but with different dogs, for different purposes. So my problem is not you working differently, everyone has a training style, my problem with you is making an ideology about a simplified training style, and propagating this is the only way, anything else is wrong, what's more, abuse. If I can start a respectful conversation about it with you I'm really happy, because I'm interested in your opinion. If not, I'm not really surprised. I'm not surprised, because I see a lot of balanced trainers who invite the force free community to talk about it. I don't see that opened mind in the force free community, there isn't even a single deep conversation about it. There are a bunch of invitations for it, though. Sorry if my english is not perfect.

[@suefrompa2567]

​@@plsdi111Your English is very good! And I agree 💯 with everything you wrote!

[@plsdi111]

@@suefrompa2567 thanks 😀 what really surprises me, that he removes all of my other comments, except these ones😂 so I don’t really think we’ll get any answer. Who knows

[@LyranSoul]

​@@plsdi111You won't get any answers. He could link the videos for you since he knows which ones they are bcuz he made them. But he won't bcuz there aren't any videos lol.

[@blogmapostvideo]

So far the dialogue has been ugly on both sides. My hesitation with yours and the vet association is the transparency. In other words - follow the money. More and more vets rely on over medicating "problem" animals.

[@peteschenck9655]

This is such good news! I took your course before purchased our new four-legged member of the family and it works!

[@zakgeorge]

You rock!

[@shaodoyon-degroote1580]

Hi Zak, I don't know if you will ever read this message, but I want to express my deepest respect and admiration for the way you encourage positive reinforcement techniques and the emotional state of dogs as top priorities in your methods. I also want to thank you for talking about the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists and being open to discuss on certification procedures to improve the quality of future dog trainers. As a vet student (hoping to be part of the ACVB one day) with a Masters of Science in Animal Behavior, I read all about conditionnal training, the physiology of stress, learned helplessness, etc. I find it so hard to see that many dogs, and their owners, can seriously suffer from the lack of regulations in the dog training industry because of some self-proclamed "dog trainers" using outdated and non scientific based techniques. And the worst part is that the general public, who do not know better and listen to them, can have disastrous outcomes while trying those "viral" techniques instead of reaching for specialized vet behaviorists who trained for 8+ years to understand aggression, fear, undesirable behavior, and more. I am convinced that the position you are in must be challenging, but in my opinion, you are leading the way to a brighter future for a better human-animal relationship, based on love and trust, and for the dogs' optimal behavioral, health and physical wellbeing. I am rooting for all the dog trainers willing to evolve and change their methods! Sending lots of hugs to Inertia and Veronica 🥰

[@zakgeorge]

Thank you for this thoughtful response. It means a lot!

[@hikewoofwigglerepeat4894]

As evidenced by those in the comments of your videos, who have zero clue on canine behavior and evidence backed training techniques, educational standards are very much needed.

[@zakgeorge]

You are correct

[@KS-yv7tw]

I miss your videos on training 😢. I thought we were going to see your journey training your new puppy. You used to give weekly help to puppy training with Inertia which I followed avidly - Having a puppy at the same time. I was really looking forward to seeing the learning process with this new pup. Is this not happening now?

[@zakgeorge]

The series with Shade is still ongoing. I am multifaceted.

[@LyranSoul]

He spends a lot of time harassing other trainers lol. Cuts down on time for his actual ridiculous " training" videos.

[@beverlydeardurff5366]

My daughter swears that a shock collar should be used in training if it is implemented correctly. She claims that these collars don't "shock", but emite a vibration. She claims that trainers need to learn how to use them correctly. Her dogs counter surf, so she's not controlling the environment. She claims that clicker training a dog is a slow process. This is a subject we don't discuss. If she could see how Gucci responds to clicker training I believe that she'd be surprised.

[@aussieoutbackfarm]

Clicker training is great. E collar training, if used properly is also great. I'm a trainer and rely heavily on both. Also, about the clicker. The clicker is a simply a marker. It helps that it's loud and clear though, but often, just using the word 'yes' like Zak does or another marker word works almost as well.

[@esaflaka9155]

Exactly man... They're not all shock collars... They're E-collars.... they vibrate like your phone does. Oh mannn... we've been abusinggg ourselves with these vibrating phoness😂😂😂

[@beverlydeardurff5366]

@@esaflaka9155: that's what my daughter claims. Her dogs are large. They counter surf. The E-collar's only work when they are on the dog. You still have to know where they are in order to teach them desirable behaviors. I focus on the positive behaviors. E-collar's zap the under desirable behaviors.

[@beverlydeardurff5366]

@@aussieoutbackfarm I agree that the clicker is a marker. It's neutral. Voices change with tone. I believe that E-collar's work, but a person has to be correctly trained in its use. I remember when choker collars were used. My first Sheltie was trained with a choker for 4-H and went to the state fair. She got hit by a motorcycle and it killed her. She didn't like motorcycles. She ran after them. Reactivity.

[@rudywatkins1312]

Just stick to the easy simple dogs that your good at. Leave the difficult hard to train dogs that are about to be put down to the real trainers that have the ability & skill required. No one is for animal abuse but, just like children there are dogs that require more than please & thank you to train them. 🤪🤪🤪

[@redschafer7804]

no we don't need more regulations

[@andreastucchi6191]

I think over 1mln viewer channels should be banned unless regulated...how bout that?😂

[@kibomathomas166]

Very positive

[@vbkimmy]

Here is a thought: Instead of regulating dog trainers, maybe regulate dog BUYERS instead. I know too many people that bought dogs they should never have owned.

[@realangiechrist]

I think it should be market driven, not mandated. But it would be great to have best practices widely accepted.

[@zakgeorge]

I used to feel the same way, but conditions seem to be worsening in the industry.

[@janhankins911]

Okay, let's take your statement to its logical conclusion. In the southern United States before the Civil War, slavery was market driven. Wealthy plantation owners had all the free labor yneeded so they could continue to get even wealthier. So SLAVERY was market driven. Now we MANDATE that you cannot own other human beings. I'm sorry, but some things NEED to be mandated. You think slavery would still be okay because it's "market driven"? Sorry, but, NO. Owning other human beings (I don't care what color they are, what country they come from, what religion they are, who they love and marry) is WRONG. You can talk about "market driven" all day long until you're blue in the face. Owning other human beings is WRONG. Harming animals and compromising their welfare in the name of training is WRONG.

[@FreedomLovinLady]

Slavery is wrong, no doubt at all, very glad it's illegal... but you are completely wrong to say that it's gone, there are still tens of thousands of slaves in this country, and it needs to stop. regulation doesn't stop it, society standing against it stops it. government and regulation is very rarely the answer to any problem. also, historically speaking, your argument is flawed. slavery was not free and the market driven nature and Constitutional set up of this country was quickly driving slavery out of the market. civil war or not it was destined to become illegal on these shores... now let's get rid of what's left and push to make each other better rather than divide into factions and try to forcefully legislate our standards on each other

[@needmoresnacks]

This comment section is almost depressing. I understand SOME nuance in the debate but the amount of people staunchly defending physically abusing animals such as shock collars is so gross.

[@a.e.s.n.]

An e collar is not a shock collar 😅

[@zakgeorge]

It’s a state of emergency in the animal training community. More people than not support outdated methods.

[@a.e.s.n.]

​@@zakgeorgeoutdated methods 🙄

[@jdrankwalter]

Zack, can you take your dogs to fun baseball games in crowded stadiums yet?

[@MCOC_AKUMA]

What a well written essay! Bravo! You can read! Now, can you show how us a video of YOU TRAINING A RED ZONE AGGRESSIVE DOG? The answer is, YOU WON'T! Why, because it would take you years to train them using only positive reinforcement. Stop running away from this challenge. Stop talking. Start training.

[@janhankins911]

Get off your high horse. First of all, the term "red zone" is problematic for a whole variety of reasons (look it up--you might actually LEARN something). Second (and I get SO tired of repeating this to people who have no interest in changing for the better), one of the GOALS of positive training is to keep the dog UNDER threshold. There are MANY reasons for this. Here are a couple (of many): 1) keeping a dog under threshold (which means they don't display the aggressive behavior) prevents the dog from "practicing" that behavior; 2) keeping the dog under threshold prevents the dog from getting reinforced for the aggressive behavior; 3) when dogs are in a situation where they are exhibiting aggression, the brain releases a lot of "stress" chemicals and hormones (like cortisol)--some of these are "fast acting" and dissipate from the dog's system within hours, others don't dissipate for DAYS, so the dog has elevated levels of stress hormones in their body, making the likelihood of an aggressive reaction even GREATER, 4) dogs don't learn when they are in a situation where they feel their only option is to exhibit aggressive behavior--the dog is REACTING (not acting)--the dog is reacting with the reptilian brain, not their cerebral cortex. DOGS DON'T LEARN IN THOSE SITUATIONS. So you can't teach your dog a better way of coping, 5) if you use aversive training techniques you are actually TEACHING the dog they were right--many dogs act with aggression because they think "There's a guy wearing a golf cap; bad things happen to me when I see guys wearing golf caps". You shock the dog, choke the dog, pinch the dog, or otherwise harm, scare, or intimidate the dog, the dogs thinks "Gee, I was right. Bad things happen to me when I see guys wearing golf caps. I better BITE the next one I see". You do that instead of teaching the dog that bad things don't necessarily happen when they see a guy wearing a golf cap and they are to rely on YOU (their LEADER, not their despicable dictator) to keep them safe from all manner of things (but then it is YOUR responsibility to actually keep your dog safe). I could go on. You are unwilling to try other methods or change and you would be the first I'd suggest NOT be licensed.

[@MCOC_AKUMA]

My high horse comes from the fact that I have rescued these aggressive dogs from people that were positive only advocates. They don't properly train dogs and the dogs the turn out to become out of control until one day that person decides to give up on these dogs. Shame on you all who are shaming tried and true methods. Keep your FF methods, leave the rest of us alone because we are training aggressive dogs to become functional members of society.

[@brknglasses2734]

@@MCOC_AKUMA you definitely sound like you're parroting someone who found a way ro create a problem they can "solve" for you. Have you ever been so mad or scared that you were dangerous? Would yelling at you, and choking have calmed you down? What would you have learned, and what kind of bond would you develop with the lunatic abusing you?

[@janhankins911]

@@MCOC_AKUMA No, I will NOT leave you alone. You are harming animals (only dogs, or do you harm other species as well?). I will NOT sit idly by and know that people like you are out there hurting innocent animals. No, I will be their advocate and their voice. So, no, I will not shut up, go away, and leave you alone. I have an ethical duty and responsibility to use my voice to help them. And you are exactly WHY we need licensing in the dog training/behavior industry. If (and when) we have licensing, you'll be out of business, so perhaps you better start preparing to either change your methods or find other employment.

[@a.e.s.n.]

​@@MCOC_AKUMAthank you for what you do!

[@user-vt1sk4rs8r]

Most people train their own dogs, so do they have to get this qualification also ZAK GEORGE ??????????

[@zakgeorge]

Our efforts are focused on the competence level amongst animal training professionals.

[@roberthynesdogtraining]

Lets do a poscast - just you and I. It'll make for some great viewing. You bring your scientific consensus to the table, I'm bringing Skinner.

[@alliancedogtraining6400]

@zacgeorge I don't think we're going to regulate or protest away the ⚡ dangerous trainers especially our personal favorite (sarcasm) DD. I have a plan I know will work, though. May I run it past you? I can email or IM you a file later. I am so $#@! sick of well-meaning people and their innocent dogs being victimized by these unskilled and unethical dog trainers! It is heartbreaking to witness the shame and regret expressed by clients when they seek help for their traumatized dog. Our force-free community needs to do more for these poor dogs and their people.

[@SignalZeroK9]

You should start by actually learning how to train a dog. You know what's even more upsetting? when I have my clients come to me and inform me that the positive only trainer they gave $800 to told them that their dog was untrainable and aggressive and that they should seriously consider just having it killed. That's okay though because I fix them for half of that price and yet another win goes in the balanced training category. You know what you should run past him? both of your exits into a different profession because you're not cut out for this one. Clown show.

[@panda17284]

This should have already been a law

[@BradHutchings]

Total garbage. Try winning in the market.

[@zakgeorge]

The American College of Veterinary Behaviorists’ recommendation for mandatory certification of dog trainers underscores a critical issue: the reliance on market forces alone to elevate the best practices in dog training is fundamentally flawed, especially in fields characterized by widespread misinformation or lack of knowledge. In the realm of dog training, where misconceptions abound and the understanding of canine behavior is evolving, the adage that ‘good ideas should win in the marketplace’ falls short. This is because both guardians and some professionals operate under a significant knowledge gap-they don’t know what they don’t know. This ignorance isn’t a personal failure but a systemic one, where outdated or debunked methods can persist simply because they are popular or widely marketed, not because they are the most effective or humane.

[@BradHutchings]

@@zakgeorge I don't know what the Latin phrase is for "appealing to a pretend authority for a reason for it to become the official authority". I assume it has the word "absurdum" in it. Regardless, that's your argument. Regardless of that, your desired outcome will kill dogs, and lots of them. You cannot solve all dog behavior problems that ultimately result in dogs ending up in the shelter with purely positive, non-aversive methods. You don't even take on day-to-day challenging problems that are a result of unplanned interactions with zero or lightly trained dogs. Do a series on a week at a condo complex and see how much work your non-aversive methods have on dense population of naturally territorial animals handled by imperfect and often in a hurry humans. It would be hilarious showing most people just avoiding each other like they already do. And then there's the religiosity of what you label "aversive". Forget shock and prong collars. We can certainly agree on those being poor methods, especially as a go-to. You're a broken record of critical against Cesar Millan who simply teaches people to be leaders and confident with their animals. You won't talk with any civility about or to Joel Beckman, who has literally trained killer whales in an environment where the orcas killed trainers. Side note: ACVB also considers vibration collars to be cruel and aversive. Ever trained a deaf dog? Turns out, they are the most effective positive reinforcement tool for recall that you can imagine. You do you, of course, but you were an invaluable resource when you were raising puppies on camera and doing your best with the positive approach. Now, you're a whiny activist not helping us solve pretty common issues in the whole lifecycles of our dogs. My test is Cesar and Joel. If they're your enemies, you've lost the plot.

[@alexbarnes3912]

Regulation is control. Give a governing body your rights, and you lose them. Look what our government is doing now and you see what regulation brings.

[@lavender1893]

Perhaps in some cases, but in general regulation ensures public safety and ethical guidelines. We rely on regulated professionals; like doctors, psychotherapists, pharmacists, etc. Imagine if there were no regulatory bodies for those professions, it would be a nightmare. Eta: And in the US, the government is interfering with professional bodies which is causing the most issues, not the professional body itself.

[@zakgeorge]

I once shared the hesitation towards regulation, but it’s clear progress isn’t being made without it. Much like seatbelt laws protect people, setting standards for dog trainers safeguards both dogs and the community. Appreciate your feedback on this!

[@eyewetoddid]

Absolutely.... 100%. Just another group of people who think that they can "regulate" the bad apples out of the bunch....fantasy! In fact, what they will do is take away the right of people who train a different way than they do (sound familiar?) I know first hand that, say, the Ecollar, when used properly, is a invaluable tool to train a dog....and, it will not harm the dog physically or mentally (WHEN USED PROPERLY!).....but they would have them outlawed and banish any and all training with them...BS! The fact is, bad apples will always be bad apples and no amount of regulation is going to fix that. The only way to truly fix it is for people to stop giving their money to bad, abusive trainers.....if they can not make money training, they will find another occupation !

[@janhankins911]

Okay so you'd be perfectly happy going to a doctor who didn't go to medical school, isn't licensed to practice medicine, and is completely free of "regulation"? I wold HOPE my doctor not only went to medical school, but also graduated and agrees to meet minimum standards of care as "regulated". And in today's American government, you don't need to GIVE the government you rights to loose them--look at the overturning of Roe v. Wade and the most recent idiotic thing about IVF (couple struggling to have a family now can no longer rely on IVF--certainly not in Alabama and IVF clinics in other states are also beginning to stop operations). I did NOT give the government MY permission to tell me what I can do with my body and I did not GIVE them the right to make medical decisions for me (rather than my DOCTOR). They TOOK that right, I didn't GIVE them anything. Maybe you AGREE with their decision to TAKE those rights? Fine. But they still TOOK them without MY permission. I have NO problem with regulation to keep me safe.

[@judet3026]

@@zakgeorge progress is not being made due to the vitriol and extremism being preached by activists such as yourself. All you are doing is using force through bullying to impose your beliefs on other people - that's hardly 'force free' or 'positive'.

[@albubelbukolme8426]

We just made it illegal to own or have possession of prongcollars, electric collars, tightening collars etc. in my country Finland! The law also states that it is illegal to yank the dog from its collar or by its fur or cause the dog pain in any way. I’m happy my country finally took a step towards more progressive policys regarding animal rights. I see similiar things happening in other countries in EU too, which makes me hopeful😊

[@judet3026]

How is the Finnish government monitoring progress in dogs? Let's wait and see a reduction in bites / attacks and see how this is working. Data is what will tell the tale.

[@jpaleblue]

Please come to the shelters in Los Angeles and try to remove a powerful and fearful 95 pound pit bull from its kennel without the use of a slip lead-please show me how you will safely walk this dog from point A to point B. (PS There is no history on this dog-it could have a serious bite history-you don’t know.)

[@albubelbukolme8426]

@@judet3026 We indeed do have a database in province offices that monitors the progress. The new restrictions mentioned are also based in science and data which concludes we're already on the right path. Bare in mind that this isn't really a drastic change in Finnish animal right laws. The use of prongcollars and elecrtic collars were already banned, the only thing changing now is the right to even possess these objects.

[@albubelbukolme8426]

@@jpaleblue I wouldn't because I'm not a certified trainer. Hence why you should watch this video one more time with a thought.😉

[@jpaleblue]

@@albubelbukolme8426 With all due respect, you have no clue what you are talking about.

[@user-td6vp6lk4l]

They just said that to shut you up lol every dog owner would have to be a certified trainer in order to train their dog. You’re just being silly Mr.

[@zakgeorge]

The statement applies to animal training professionals not everyday people.

[@user-td6vp6lk4l]

@@zakgeorgethey would have to prove that the training is intended to cause pain and intimidation. Once again, they just said that to shut you up dude. They’re not going to mandate anything

[@user-td6vp6lk4l]

Literally all e collar trainers and e fence companies would have to stop selling their products.. you’re just not thinking clearly and they definitely messed with your head which is what they wanted to do. That’s just a statement but there will be no legitimate legislation it’s too sloppy and time consuming.