Are Social Media Trends Putting Your Dog at Risk? Understanding the Dangers of Dog Training Advice Online!

Jan 9

3 min read

Don't get me wrong social media can be great, however more and more recently I am shocked by people calling themselves dog trainers and using outdated and unethical techniques. This means that people watching on their phones are thinking great-it works! It does-but at the risk of harming your dogs!

And I get it! When we were struggling with our 2 rescue Trailhounds, I was one of these people scrolling the internet and social media for training advice, tips and tricks, to help their reactivity, but very quickly seeing some of the techniques people were using on their fearful dogs, it started feeling wrong. If it feels wrong, trust your gut-it usually is! This what got me into dog training in the first place! I wanted to learn more about scientifically proven, up-to date, ethical dog training methods.

Social media can be harmful to the dog training world for several reasons:

1. Promotion of Outdated or Harmful Methods

Many social media influencers prioritize entertainment over education. Techniques like alpha rolls, leash yanks, or "quick fixes" may be sensational but outdated and harmful.
Some trainers use fear-based or aversive methods for dramatic "before-and-after" videos, misrepresenting these techniques as effective solutions without showing their long-term negative effects on dogs.

2. Oversimplification of Complex Issues

Dog behaviour problems often stem from a variety of factors (e.g., genetics, environment, past experiences), but social media often frames them as solvable with one simple trick.
This oversimplification can set unrealistic expectations for owners and lead to frustration or giving up when results aren't immediate.

3. Lack of Credibility

Anyone can post training advice on social media without proper qualifications or experience. This creates a flood of information, making it difficult for dog owners to discern credible sources from misleading ones.
The popularity of a trainer online doesn't necessarily correlate with their expertise or adherence to ethical practices.

4. Comparison and Pressure

Pet owners may compare their dogs to others showcased on social media, leading to feelings of inadequacy if their dog doesn't progress as quickly or behave as well as the ones in curated videos.
This can discourage owners from being patient and focusing on their dog's individual needs.

5. Virality of Misleading Content

Videos showing dramatic or harsh corrections tend to go viral, reinforcing the idea that aversive methods are necessary or effective.
Positive reinforcement-based training often involves subtle, less visually striking techniques, which may not gain as much attention.

6. Focus on Appearance Over Well-Being

The pressure to showcase a "perfect" dog for likes and followers can lead owners to prioritize aesthetics or obedience over their dog’s emotional and physical well-being.
For example, dogs may be pushed into uncomfortable situations or over-trained for the sake of creating content.

7. Misinformation About Dog Behaviour

Misinterpretation of body language and behaviour (e.g., calling a fearful dog "stubborn" or a growl "dominance") spreads quickly on platforms with little accountability.

8. Echo Chambers and Polarization

Social media algorithms often reinforce users' existing beliefs by showing content similar to what they've engaged with. This creates echo chambers where opposing views or ethical concerns are dismissed.

What Can Be Done?

Educate Owners: Promote critical thinking and encourage dog owners to verify the credentials, qualifications, accreditations and knowledge of trainers you follow.
Highlight Positive Examples: Share and amplify content from ethical, science-based trainers who prioritize the dog's welfare.
Advocate for Transparency: Call for full context in training videos, including the time, effort, and steps involved.
Foster Community Support: Remind owners that every dog is different so learn in different ways, and progress is not a race.

Social media can be a powerful tool for spreading knowledge, but it requires careful navigation to ensure it benefits dogs and their owners rather than causing harm.