Force Free Training
Force Free Training: Training with understanding - not force
Your dog is looking at you. Ears slightly put back, quickly licking its nose, a little
hesitant, paw up. These are not random movements; these are signals. And once you
learn to read those, nothing is quite the same.
Force Free Training is not about simply following a step-by-step plan. It is not a trick; it
is not a mindless matter of 'sit, paw, good boy'. It is a partnership. Understanding how
your dog feels, anticipating its signals and training in a way that is safe and pleasant for
you both.
For a dog that experiences stress will become distracted, will learn more slowly, and
may even develop undesired behaviour. Panting, shaking, barking, putting its paw up - all
ways for your dog to say: Help, I don't understand!
Force Free Training is designed to build trust. No force, no corrections, no leash
tugging. You use a clicker or something else to mark the behaviour, followed by a
reward.
Why this method works
Many people do not realise that they are unintentionally ‘punishing’ their dog. Raising your voice, if only for a minute, a little tug on the leash, responding to undesired behaviour — it can make your dog feel insecure or even anxious. And that is exactly what you do not want. Force Free Training is different.
- Your dog gets clear acknowledgement when it does something right, for example using a clicker or light signal.
- It learns by positive associations, allowing it to understand what you are asking faster and permanently.
- This method makes your dog feel relaxed and confident, and eager to work with you.
And, no, that does not mean that you have to walk around with a bag of treats for the rest of your life. As soon as your dog understands what is expected, rewards become more subtle, and the clicker is put away.
What dogs can benefit from Force Free Training?
Force Free Training is for all dogs. From bouncy puppies to older dogs that come with some baggage. Even anxious or traumatised dogs respond well to this method, because it offers them exactly what they need: safety, clarity and trust.
And, yes, it also works for behavioural problems. Did you know that, in 95% of cases, a dog’s behaviour stems from the owner’s actions or inactions? Many people unintentionally acknowledge the behaviour that they are actually trying to get rid of.
- If your dog barks and you tell it to be quiet, you are giving it attention and it will keep doing that.
- If it tugs the leash, and you tug back to correct it, it teaches the dog that tugging works.
Force Free Training breaks these patterns and teaches you to encourage desired behaviour without any force or punishment.
The long-term effects
A dog that not only ‘listens’ but that understands you. That is not obedient out of fear, but because it enjoys working with you. That is better able to cope with stressful situations, that becomes more confident, and that builds a relationship of trust with you.
That is the effect of Force Free Training.
And the beauty of it is that this is not a temporary solution. What your dog learns this way will last. No relapse, no endless repetitions, but a partnership based on true communication.
Are you ready for a different approach to training?
Would you like to have a dog that enjoys listening to you and is eager to work for you without any stress or force? A dog that feels safe and knows what you expect of it? Then Force Free Training is the perfect method for you.
Become a Force Free Trainer - Train with trust, no force
A Force Free Trainer works with the dog. No pressure, no force, no punishment– just positive reinforcement. Rewarding desired behaviour and creating a safe learning environment will not only lead to effective behaviour, but also to a strong, trust-based bond.
Why Force Free Training?
Force-free training is all about communication. Not only will you learn how to encourage certain behaviour, but also to read and understand the subtle signals of your dog. This creates a deeper connection, in which training becomes a partnership instead of a one-sided command.
Dogs learn by positive associations, not by fear or force. This will lead to lasting behaviour and a confident and relaxed dog.
- Your dog will become an active participant in the learning process instead of simply executing commands.
- You will develop the skill to truly understand behaviour, instead of merely giving commands.
Many training methods are based on old habits, without acknowledging the latest behavioural science. Force Free Training looks at the dog’s motivation and capitalises on its natural ability to learn. You will discover how effective training can be once you allow the dog to think along and respect its choices.
More than a method - a mindset
Ready to embrace the future of dog training? Become a Force Free Trainer and make a difference.