Positively Shitty
In this episode of “Off Leash and Unfiltered,” Kati Peppe, owner of Diamond K9 in Biddeford, Maine, tackles the intense debate within the dog training community between aversive methods, specifically E-Collar training, and purely positive reinforcement approaches. Kati highlights the growing backlash she encounters on social media from advocates of non-aversive training, emphasizing the critical role that consistent and appropriate corrections play in effectively modifying dog behavior. She explains that while positive reinforcement is a powerful tool, it may not suffice for addressing serious behavioral issues such as reactivity, aggression, or resource guarding. Kati advocates for the use of E-Collars as an essential component in establishing reliable obedience and long-term behavior modification, ensuring dogs understand and adhere to desired behaviors in various environments.
Kati also shares her personal experiences dealing with online criticism and the challenges of defending her training philosophy against a vocal and often hostile opposition. She underscores the importance of standing by proven, effective training methods to ensure the safety and well-being of both dogs and their owners. By offering honest and transparent insights into her training practices, Kati aims to educate her listeners on the benefits of E-Collar training and the necessity of balancing rewards with appropriate consequences. This episode reinforces Diamond K9’s dedication to providing practical, evidence-based training solutions that cultivate trustworthy and well-behaved family dogs, despite the prevailing controversies in the industry.