The world of dog training has evolved quite a bit since the inception of clicker training. If only I had known that when I first signed up my dog for training at A1. The use of aversive training techniques may, on the outside, appear effective in training your dog; but this method can, and in most cases will, be detrimental to your relationship with your dog. I know this because I took my 12-week old puppy to this training class. I'll spare the many details, but what I can remember is training my dog to heal by "snapping" a a leash that was attached to the prong collar around her neck as we walked...all the while my puppy was squeaking in pain and confusion. I was told by the owner and trainer, Steve, to ignore it...that it wasn't really hurting her. I did so. Within weeks, my dog cowered at my approach. She made her body small when I tried to pet her. She no longer came to me when called...she slowly approached...afraid to move too quickly, lest I snap that leash again. If I
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