The Truth about Dogs Repository

A curated, evidence-led repository on humane, force-free dog training — peer-reviewed studies, official positions, and expert voices, with sources you can check.

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Peer-reviewed2014

Stress shows up in the dog's body

Compared two schools and found more stress-linked body language in dogs trained with negative-reinforcement-based methods.

Training methods based on positive reinforcement are less stressful and potentially better for their welfare.

Source details

Source

Effects of 2 training methods on stress-related behaviors of the dog and on the dog–owner relationship

Deldalle & Gaunet

Journal of Veterinary Behavior

Evidence level

Primary evidence

Credibility

Last reviewed

May 30, 2026

Why we included it

Useful for body language, stress signs, and emotional welfare cards.

WelfareReactivity