Genetics vs. Training: “It’s All In How You Raise Them,” right?
In this episode of Off Leash and Unfiltered, Kati Peppe, owner of Diamond K9 Dog Training in Biddeford, Maine, tackles an important yet often misunderstood topic: how much of a dog’s behavior is shaped by training versus genetics?
Many dog owners believe that any dog can be trained to behave perfectly if raised correctly. Kati debunks this myth by explaining that while training is powerful, it cannot override genetics. A dog’s temperament, tendencies, and natural drives are hardwired into their DNA, and while training can modify and manage behaviors, it won’t change who the dog fundamentally is.
She shares personal experiences, including a past trainer who wrongly described her difficult puppy as a “blank slate”—a notion Kati now recognizes as completely false. Just as people are born with unique traits and predispositions, dogs come with built-in behaviors and natural instincts, which dictate how easily they learn, adapt, and respond to training.
Kati emphasizes that not all dogs have the same ceiling for improvement. Some dogs will always require management and structure, regardless of how much training they receive. She also cautions against making excuses for a dog’s breed or genetics, while still acknowledging that expectations must align with a dog’s innate capabilities.
The key takeaway? Dog training is about striking the right balance between guidance, structure, and realistic expectations based on a dog’s genetic makeup. Owners must learn to work with their dog’s instincts, rather than against them, to achieve the best possible results.
Contact Kati Peppe or read more about her philosophy. Read more about E-Collar technologies here.