Humane, fear free, & effective.
At The Underdog Collective, your dog’s welfare is at the core of their behaviour modification protocol. We only use fear-free methods that have been scientifically studied and proven to address anxiety. Specifically, we use desensitization, antecedent arrangement, management, and intense data tracking to humanely produce long-lasting behaviour change. If required, we work in collaboration with your veterinarian or vet behaviourist. Research shows us that these methods are more effective than training that incorporates intentional punishment, coercion, or fear. Plus, they feel better, too.
Our philosophy & methods
We do not use intimidation or startling techniques, coercion, pain, punishment, or deprivation of basic needs to teach dogs new skills. We do not use tools or methods such as:
Bark collars
Electric collars (e-collars)
The “cry it out method”
Spray bottles
Cans of coins/pet corrector
Any physical corrections
Treating fear with positive punishment may lead to behaviour suppression, but does not do anything to help your dog feel better about being alone. While a bark collar may suppress your dog’s barking, it does not create the long-lasting emotional change required to reduce the stress your dog feels when you leave them at home. Many of these methods may initially treat the symptoms our dogs exhibit when they are left by themselves, but do nothing to address their underlying fear.