Guiding principles: Effect of a science-based staff training program on knowledge and application of assistance dog training techniques

Positive reinforcement training (PRT) is an effective and humane training technique for modifying animals’ behavior. Given the influence of assistance dog charities, the numbers of dogs trained by them and the importance of their role, it is vital that they utilize PRT when handling their dogs. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a standardized staff training package about PRT on staff knowledge and application of dog training techniques. A sample of 363 Guide Dogs UK staff responded to an online survey. Staff who had received advanced (P = 0.003) or intermediate (P = 0.043) internal training were more likely to demonstrate knowledge of training theory than staff who had not received training. Staff were more confident in both practical (P = 0.0082) and theoretical (P = 0.0012) dog training techniques if they had received any internal training. Positive reinforcement was the most understood and applied principle with 96.4% of staff correctly answering the positive reinforcement knowledge questions and 98.2% of participants selecting positive reinforcement as a method they used to modify dog behavior. Aversive techniques (positive punishment) were less likely to be utilized by staff who had received any internal training (P < 0.001) and those who had answered learning theory questions correctly (P = 0.024). Internal training on the subject of PRT is effective at improving staff knowledge and application of ethical dog-handling practices. It is recommended that assistance dog organizations provide training on PRT to staff and stakeholders to enhance knowledge and ethical dog-handling practices thus improving the welfare of the dogs in their care.