Using non-aversive or neutral training methods brought about a less aggressive behavior. Training, using positive methods such as treat or exercise reward, along with other non-aversive behavior training, elicited very few aggressive responses.

According to Meghan E. Herron, lead author of the study, "This study highlights the risk of dominance-based training, which has been made popular by TV, books, and punishment-training advocates. These techniques are fear-eliciting and may lead to owner-directed aggression."

Herron and the team from the School of Veterinary Medicine at Penn State suggest that primary care veterinarians advise owners of the risks associated with aversive training methods and provide guidance and resources for safe management of behavior problems.

Information taken in part from AAHA Trends magazine, March, 2010

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