Understanding the nature of canine behavior has long been central to effective training. Owren (1987) reviewed behavioral training approaches, emphasizing the nervous system’s role in integrating internal motivation and external stimuli. When discrepancies between expected and actual conditions arise, dogs react—offering opportunities for structured learning.
The study described the communication system between dog and handler as consisting of signals, key-stimuli, and external influences such as noise. Training outcomes improved when key-stimuli and conditioned signals were repeated consistently before verbal commands were introduced, ensuring dogs could reliably form new behavior patterns.
Importantly, the review also addressed emotional behavior, including stress, coping, and aggression. Recognizing how stress influences learning, Owren suggested that trainers must account for emotional states to foster more permanent and stable behavior change. A practical example was provided through the exercise of “retrieve”, illustrating how repetition and communication lead to success.
Overall, this early work underscored the importance of structured training strategies, awareness of stress and coping mechanisms, and careful communication in developing effective and humane training practices.
Source: Owren, T. (1987). Training dogs based on behavioural methods. Journal of Small Animal Practice, 28, 1009–1029.
