The Monks of New Skete, while likely well-intentioned, exhibit a significant lack of fundamental knowledge and effective training skills in their widely-read book, “The Art of Raising a Puppy.” Their stated goal, to foster well-behaved dogs integrated into family life, is shared by all responsible trainers. However, the methods and advice presented in both the original 1991 edition and the “Completely Revised And Updated” 2011 version fall short of modern, ethical, and effective dog training standards. This critique will delve into specific problematic areas of their approach and suggest more beneficial alternatives.
Flaws in the Monks’ Training Philosophy
Several key issues stand out in the Monks’ recommendations, potentially leading to confusion and negative outcomes for both puppies and their owners.
Early Weaning and Sleep Disturbances
The book acknowledges that whining during the first night is normal for a puppy away from its mother and littermates. However, the suggested solution is concerning. They recommend a “gentle scruff shake along with a low ‘No, go to sleep'” if whining persists. This approach, particularly for a vulnerable young puppy experiencing its first night alone, is harsh and counterproductive. A more compassionate and effective method involves providing a safe and comfortable sleeping environment, perhaps with a warm, ticking-heart toy, and offering calm reassurance without resorting to aversive physical corrections. Building trust from the very first night is paramount, and a scruff shake can undermine this crucial bond.
Housetraining Methodologies
The Monks’ advice on housetraining, which involves covering the entire floor with newspaper, presents unnecessary challenges. While newspapers can be part of a housetraining strategy, this blanket approach can confuse a puppy about where elimination is acceptable. Positive reinforcement, diligent supervision, frequent potty breaks to a designated outdoor spot, and immediate praise for successful outdoor eliminations are far more effective and less confusing methods for housetraining.
Addressing Possessiveness and Aggression
The 2011 edition, on page 64, offers problematic advice regarding feeding that could exacerbate possessiveness and aggression. Instead of structuring early life experiences to prevent these issues, their guidance risks making them worse. A constructive approach involves ensuring a puppy does not feel the need to guard its food. This can be achieved by feeding the puppy in a calm environment and, if necessary, practicing controlled “food sharing” exercises with positive associations to teach the puppy that food is not something to be threatened over.
Inappropriate Discipline Techniques
The advice on forcefully dealing with a five-month-old German Shepherd that growls at guests is another significant concern. Such guidance, if followed, can escalate the problem. Growling is a warning signal, and aversive methods used to suppress it without addressing the underlying fear or anxiety can lead to a dog that bites without warning. A better course of action involves understanding the root cause of the growling and implementing desensitization and counter-conditioning protocols, often with the guidance of a qualified professional. This allows the dog to become more comfortable in the presence of guests, removing the need to growl.
Unnecessary Training Collars
The Monks recommend introducing “training collars” after a puppy has been on a flat or martingale collar for one to two months. They specifically mention a “snap-around nylon training collar” (essentially a nylon choke collar) and a modified prong collar, and even introduce remote (shock) collars in their adult training program. This reliance on aversive “training tools” is a clear indicator of a lack of knowledge and skill in modern, positive training methods. These tools are entirely unnecessary for training any dog, even those with challenging behaviors, to an advanced level. Effective training relies on clear communication, positive reinforcement, and building a strong relationship, not on tools that inflict discomfort or pain.
Overemphasis on Dominance and Alpha Theory
A glaring issue throughout the Monks’ work is the overemphasis on dominance and “alpha” theory. Their approach advocates for showing the dog “who is boss” and acting harshly “when necessary.” This outdated and harmful philosophy is rooted in a misunderstanding of canine social structures. Dogs thrive under leadership, not authoritarian rule. A true leader provides clear guidance, consistency, and support, fostering a cooperative partnership. This is in stark contrast to an adversarial relationship where the dog is constantly in a submissive or fearful state.
Dogs exhibiting behaviors often mislabeled as “dominant” are frequently lacking self-control, discipline, or were never properly taught manners. Some may be independent, confident, or assertive, but this does not equate to a need for harsh dominance-based training. Even dogs with strong personalities can be managed and trained effectively with leadership that prioritizes understanding and partnership, not punishment.
Superior Alternatives for Dog Training
Fortunately, numerous knowledgeable trainers and resources offer far more effective and humane approaches to raising and training puppies.
Recommended Reading and Resources
For a comprehensive and positive approach to puppy development, John Rogerson’s “The Dog Vinci Code” is highly recommended. Chapter 4, “Early Behavioural Development,” offers excellent guidance on housetraining and feeding issues. When addressing aggression and growling, Chapters 42 (“Understanding Aggression”) and 44 (“Fear and Aggression”) provide valuable insights. Suzanne Clothier’s book “Bones Would Rain From The Sky,” particularly Chapter 17, offers a nuanced understanding of when and how to apply compulsion or coercion, emphasizing persuasion first. Clothier’s extensive experience since 1977 in various canine disciplines, including obedience, agility, and breeding, underpins her authoritative and trustworthy advice.
These experts, like Suzanne Clothier and John Rogerson, demonstrate how to build a strong relationship with your dog, acting as a supportive leader rather than an adversary. This style of leadership results in dogs that are well-behaved, cooperative, and view their owners as partners, not as a source of fear or submission.
It is my sincere hope that the Monks of New Skete will evolve their understanding and embrace the methods of exceptional trainers. By doing so, they can better help owners cultivate well-trained dogs and foster the strong, positive relationships that every dog deserves. The dogs themselves would undoubtedly appreciate a training approach that is built on kindness, understanding, and respect.
