In 2022, Researchers Discover Positive Effects of Authoritative Parenting on Dogs
In a groundbreaking study conducted by researchers Lauren Brubaker and Monique Udell, it was found that the behavioral outcomes of dogs varied depending on their owners’ parenting style. The study involved 48 parents and their canine children, and the results shed light on the importance of understanding and meeting a dog’s needs.
During the study, adult participants were given a survey to evaluate their expectations for their dogs and how they typically respond to their needs. The children (in this case, dogs) were tested to determine their attachment style, sociability, and problem-solving abilities.
The findings showed that dogs who were cared for by owners with an authoritative parenting style, characterized by high expectations matched with high responsiveness, displayed secure attachment, were highly sociable, and excelled in problem-solving tasks. On the other hand, dogs with authoritarian owners (high expectations but low responsiveness) and permissive owners (low expectations and low responsiveness) showed lower levels of secure attachment, sociability, and problem-solving abilities.
These results mirrored similar studies conducted on human children, highlighting the relevance of parenting styles in both human and canine development. Monique Udell, one of the researchers, emphasized the significance of these findings, suggesting that dog owners who invest time in understanding and meeting their dog’s needs are more likely to have well-adjusted, resilient dogs.
Interestingly, these findings align with the principles of “gentle parenting,” a philosophy that has gained popularity in recent years. Gentle parenting emphasizes empathy in parent-child interactions and favors understanding over punishment to help a child comprehend the reasons behind their actions and emotions. This approach has been associated with positive outcomes for human children.
Similarly, a parallel shift in the approach to human-dog relationships has been observed. Recent scientific evidence indicates that positive reinforcement and curiosity about the root causes of behaviors are more effective in modifying dog behavior compared to aversive techniques like prong collars or scolding. Working in partnership with a dog’s nature rather than suppressing it fosters mutual understanding and comfort, leading to lasting behavior change.
This shift towards a kinder and more effective approach to dog-human relationships is part of a broader movement towards humane and effective interactions between parents and children, as well as between animals and their caregivers. Susan Friedman, a psychology professor emeritus, attributes this positive shift to society’s collective journey away from coercive models of interaction towards open dialogue and respect for individual needs and motivations.
Traditional dog training methods, rooted in the outdated concept of the “alpha wolf,” have relied heavily on physical punishment, deprivation, and control. Even those who shun physical punishment may unintentionally prioritize obedience over a dog’s natural inclinations, suppressing behaviors like sniffing during walks. However, dogs’ reliance on their sense of smell for communication and assessment of their surroundings makes sniffing essential for their well-being.
Despite mounting evidence against these coercive training methods, they persist, perpetuated by celebrity trainers and the largely unregulated field of dog training. The allure of quick results often overshadows the long-term consequences on a dog’s mental and physical health. Additionally, accepting that these techniques are misguided can be difficult for those who have used them, as it requires acknowledging past mistakes.
The most effective way to shift towards a kinder and scientifically supported approach to dog-human relationships is through gentle methods. Rather than condemning or criticizing those who rely on physical punishment or dominance, it is more fruitful to engage in a dialogue and offer alternative approaches that align with their goals.
While parallels can be drawn between the rise of gentle parenting and the movement for gentle pet parenting, there is a crucial difference. Human children grow up in a world designed for humans, while dogs require guidance to live happily and safely in a world not tailored to their needs. Fortunately, kindness and understanding have proven to be the most effective tools in achieving this mutual well-being.
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