Is it right to train and control dogs? Despite the myth of the obedient and loyal pet, many dog owners are concerned about the way they teach their furry friends to behave.
Some argue that the practices of training and controlling suppress and distort the dog’s personality. Others claim that clear guidance and set rules are the key to developing a well-behaved and happy dog.

In this article, we will look at these two arguments from different angles and explore how best to raise our pet to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
What is dressage and control?
Dressage refers to the processes used to train dogs to perform certain tasks or exhibit desired behaviors. Control refers to the methods used to control dogs to ensure that they behave within certain limits.
What is meant by dressage?
The word dressage has a long history and a variety of meanings. For example, it can describe the method of training horses or dogs, or it can describe the training of people in certain skills and behaviors. In the context of pets, dressage can be understood both positively and negatively.
Positive dressage refers to training the animal to better cooperate and become familiar with the owner. This is primarily about learning commands to facilitate shared communication. Negative training, on the other hand, is often considered animal cruelty and involves coercion and unnatural behaviors that can cause harm to the animal.
It is important to emphasize that dressage for both dogs and horses should not be seen as a panacea for all problems. A good relationship and education are based on a loving and consistent upbringing and a respectful interaction with the animal.
- Positive dressage: improving communication and cooperation with the animal
- Negative dressage: Unacceptable and cruel to animals
- Dressage is not a panacea for all problems, but should be seen in the context of loving education
Alternative training methods
Dressage and commands are part of the classic approach to dog training. However, there are an increasing number of dog owners who rely on alternative methods to train their dogs. This includes, for example, positive reinforcement, where the dog is rewarded for correct behavior instead of being punished for incorrect behavior. The use of Bach flowers or homeopathic remedies to calm the dog is also used by many dog owners.
Another approach is the so-called “non-violent communication”, in which the dog is not patronized, but communicated at eye level. The focus here is on building a stronger relationship between dog and owner and building trust and respect.
Alternative training methods can help dogs bond better with their owners and feel more comfortable in their environment. Ultimately, however, it is crucial to determine which method best suits the dog and owner and helps the dog lead a happy and fulfilling life.
- Positive reinforcement
- Bach flowers and homeopathic remedies
- Non-violent communication

It is advisable to try out and adapt different methods to suit your own dog individually and to enable harmonious coexistence.
Why movement and exercise are so important for dogs
For dogs, regular exercise and exercise is of great importance. Because just like humans, dogs need exercise to stay fit and healthy. Dogs should be kept moving not only physically, but mentally as well. This is because exercise promotes general well-being and also often prevents behavioral problems such as e.g. barking.B. Excessive barking or gnawing.
Especially for dogs living in the city, daily exercise is essential. Here they often have little opportunity for free and unrestrained exercise. Walking allows them to explore their environment, sharpen their senses, and thus also mentally exercise them.
However, exercise and movement should not be limited to daily walks only. Other activities such as playing with other dogs or training tricks can also improve a dog’s physical and mental fitness. However, it is important that the exercise is not professional and trained, but natural and playful. Because dogs prefer company and joint activities.”
- Conclusion: Exercise and exercise are important not only for the physical health of dogs, but also for their mental health. Dogs can explore their environment, sharpen their senses and avoid behavior problems.
Conclusion
Life with a dog is something very special. It’s a unique experience that brings joy and challenge in equal measure every day. However, time and again we hear from dog owners who feel overwhelmed or even suffer from the fact that they love their four-legged companion, but find life with him too complicated.
One aspect that is often neglected is the fact that dogs learn very quickly and respond to any cue, no matter how small. This means that they can not only be trained, but also commanded – and often without the owner being aware of it. It is important to be aware that every command, every signal you give has an effect on the dog’s behavior.
Nevertheless, training and commanding does not necessarily have to be negative. On the contrary, clear and unambiguous communication between owner and dog can make living together much easier and more pleasant. However, it is crucial to be aware of what signals you are giving and what goal you are trying to achieve with them. It’s the only way to make sure you’re not unintentionally training or commanding your dog, but instead helping him live a happy and fulfilling life.
- The Bottom Line:
- It is essential to be aware that dogs learn very quickly and that any action taken by the owner can have an effect on their behavior.
- Clear and unambiguous communication between owner and dog is crucial for an easy and pleasant coexistence.
- Dressage and commanding don’t have to be negative, they can actually enhance life with a dog.