Not sure where to start with your dog’s training? Answer 5 questions and get a specific, science-backed recommendation — which training approach fits your dog’s situation, what to start with, and which articles cover exactly what you need.
How old is your dog?
What’s your main training goal right now?
How does your dog respond to food rewards?
Has your dog had any prior training?
What describes your biggest challenge right now?
What This Quiz Is Based On
Every recommendation in this quiz is grounded in the same peer-reviewed research cited throughout this site. The core finding — that positive reinforcement training produces better outcomes and fewer behavior problems than aversive methods — is consistent across multiple independent studies including Blackwell et al. (2008), Deldalle & Gaunet (2014), and Ziv (2017). The approach to reactivity is based on the counterconditioning literature; the treat-fading recommendations align with Bremhorst et al.'s (2018) findings on variable reward schedules.
This quiz gives a direction, not a diagnosis. If your dog has significant fear, aggression, or a history of trauma, a certified positive reinforcement trainer (look for CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, or IAABC credentials) is worth consulting.