pitbull puppyThere are many training methods people utilize to train their pitbull puppy. Some of those methods work more effectively than others, depending on the circumstances. In this article I'm going to cover a few pitbull training methods and explain the positives and negatives of each.

The first and quite popular method that was used throughout history is the negative reinforcement method. That is, punishing your dog for wrongdoings. The reason this method isn't recommended for casual pitbull owners is because not only it's not necessary but you will never really establish a true relationship with your pitbull based on trust. That is, your pitbull won't have respect for you - he will only fear you. Yes, this method is often times needed - and in some cases it's more effective, particularly more independent dogs. But regardless, there is a great alternative to negative reinforcement and I'm going to cover below.

Shock collars are also quite popular. The idea is that you attach a collar to your pitbull's neck that sends a small electric shock when you press a button. The idea is that you make your dog associate wrongdoings with the electric shock to teach them things you don't approve. The downside to this is that, just like the negative reinforcement method, this type of training isn't based on respect but rather "punishments". Aside from that, it's also quite dangerous for your dog's immune system to keep sending those zaps every minute.

The training method that I approve and recommend for all dog owners is the positive reinforcement method. Praise your pitbull for doing the right things and he will quickly learn exactly what he's supposed to be doing. That also helps to cancel out the wrong things as well. For example, your pitbull keeps barking and you can't make him stop. Teach him to bark on command and he will only do it when you tell him to. Same goes for getting up on the furniture. If you want to stop your pitbull from getting up on the couch then train him to get up on your command so that he knows he will only get praised if he does it when you tell him to do so. You might think dogs wouldn't want to obey your every command just for some praise and a treat but you'd be surprised.