By Lisa Hird

The bond between dogs and their human guardians is comparable to the emotional attachment seen between human adults and their children. This bond is not surprising, given that dogs have been bred for their dependence on humans over thousands of years.

Sadly though, this bond can be damaged. Using punishment type training with dogs can have long-lasting and deep-seated negative effects. This can lead to fear, anxiety, and even aggression in dogs. It can also damage the bond between the dog and their owner. Positive reinforcement training, on the other hand, promotes a healthier and more trusting relationship with your dog. It's important to recognise the impact of punishment on dogs and choose more kind and ethical training methods.

Dogs do not automatically trust humans, even if we believe ourselves to be kind. Trust must be earned through consistent, patient, and respectful behaviour. Building trust with a dog involves listening to their cues, allowing them real choices and understanding their body language. It requires demonstrating reliability and providing positive experiences. Trust is a two-way street, and it takes time and effort to establish with a dog.

Little Luna had been sent to a residential training facility by her owners in an attempt to address her barking and lunging at dogs issues. When this failed, she was surrendered to German Shepherd Dog Welfare Fund and arrived wearing a rusty choke chain. When I first met her, it became clear that Luna had a deep-seated fear of human touch and interaction, as she would actively avoid any form of contact and even brief eye contact would cause anxiety.

I began working with her last year, just sitting in a quiet room or outside in one of the paddocks. For the first few months Luna did not come very close but she did begin to observe me. After a little while, she began to come closer, always watching my hands.

Eventually she began to approach and began to rub herself against my legs, always watching my hands but staying longer. I began to simply drape my hand over my knee and before too long she began to push into my hand. It would have been so tempting to rush things and begin stroking her, but we must remember, close proximity is not necessarily an invitation to touch!

Over a number of weeks, little Luna and I developed a communication system when we were able to listen to each other, always based around giving her choice. If she came over to me and presented her rump, I would begin stroking (and eventually brushing her) until she indicated she had enough by turning to look at me. I immediately stopped at her request.

Fast forward 6 months – what a transformation! It's been such a rewarding journey to see Luna go from fearing touch to eagerly seeking it out. Getting rid of the choke collar was a huge step, and I'm so happy that she's now comfortable wearing a harness.

Seeing her excitement to travel in my car and go to the park is truly heartwarming. She's become much more confident and curious, and it's a joy to watch her exploring the new environments. She is even beginning to quietly observe other dogs without barking or lunging. I'm looking forward to many more happy outings with her, and I'm grateful for the progress we've made together.

Dogs have evolved alongside us to become the perfect companions. Their strong social attachments and emotional dependence on us show the deep bond we share. It's incredible to see how they have adapted to fit into our families.

Dogs have developed a complex language of body signals over thousands of years. By paying attention and responding to their signals, we can strengthen our bond and avoid misunderstandings. We need to pay attention to both sides of the communication.

Patience and little steps, allowing true choice really does pay off and these methods are so much kinder for dogs. This gorgeous girl has come so far already.

If you are interested in adopting her you will find her on the website here - https://www.gsdwelfarefund.co.uk/dogsforrehoming

Let's continue to nurture the special relationship with dogs and provide them with the love and care they deserve - and that includes the methods we use to train them!

Lisa Hird

Owner of Dog Behaviour Clinic

Co-director of Without Worry Canine Education