Peer-reviewed2017
A careful review found aversive methods can harm dog welfare — with no evidence they're more effective
Ziv's narrative review of the scientific literature concludes that aversive methods can jeopardise physical and mental health, and finds no convincing evidence they are more effective than positive reinforcement.
“Aversive training methods can jeopardize the physical and mental health of dogs.”
Source details
Source
The effects of using aversive training methods in dogs — a review
G. Ziv
Journal of Veterinary Behavior
Evidence level
Review / synthesis
Credibility
Last reviewed
May 30, 2026
Why we included it
The cornerstone review. Pair it with the Vieira de Castro et al. (2020) field study for the strongest welfare argument.
WelfareAggressionGeneral