The Hidden Dangers of Unqualified Online Dog Training Advice

Hey there, fellow dog lovers—have you ever scrolled through social media and come across a video or post where someone confidently diagnoses a dog's behavior from a short clip, often suggesting harsh corrections or even that the dog should be euthanized?

 

It reminds me of a line from the classic film The Big Country (1958), where Charlton Heston's character tells Gregory Peck's: "You know, McKay, you're a bigger fool than I thought you were. And to tell you the truth, that just didn't seem possible." That sarcastic surprise captures how I feel when I see unqualified online advice going far beyond what's helpful or safe. 

 

As a trainer who's worked hands-on with countless challenging dogs, I worry about the real risks this poses to dogs, owners, and even public safety. Let's gently unpack why this trend concerns me and how we can focus on better, more compassionate approaches.

 

The rise of social media has made dog training advice incredibly accessible, which can be wonderful for sharing positive tips. But the nature of social media means anyone can present themselves as an expert, sometimes prioritizing dramatic "quick fixes" or entertaining content over evidence-based methods. Research shows that misleading or aversive-focused advice can spread quickly online, potentially shifting perceptions of what's "normal" in training and leading to welfare risks for dogs. 

 

What's particularly troubling is when distant observations lead to snap judgments about complex issues like aggression. Many behavioral challenges aren't simply "bad temperament"—they often stem from underlying factors that require careful, in-person evaluation. 

 

Scholarly reviews highlight how pain from conditions like arthritis or musculoskeletal issues can manifest as irritability or defensive reactions. Shelter stress or past trauma can heighten fear responses, sometimes mimicking aggression that improves with time and proper support. Even neurocognitive factors, such as learned helplessness from uncontrollable stressors, play a role, as explored in foundational work on stress and conditioning.

 

I've seen this firsthand: owners heartbroken after following online suggestions that escalated problems, or volunteers condemned for trying to help a dog that needed medical checks first. 

 

For example, I recently guided a client with two dachshunds fighting—before assuming jealousy or territoriality, we are having them vetted for arthritis, which might turn out to be a key contributor. 

 

Thorough evaluations, starting with ruling out health issues, are the cornerstone of responsible behavior work.

 

I've written more about these nuances in my articles, drawing from experience and science. Check out "Hidden Pain, Hidden Trauma, and Hidden Dangers: The Real Drivers of Canine Aggression" or "Dog Behavior Modification vs Medications: What Works" on my website or blog.

 

From a welfare standpoint, we owe our dogs curiosity and patience. Owners and rescuers pouring their hearts into tough cases deserve support, not piling on. Let's encourage seeking qualified professionals—those with credentials from reputable programs—who prioritize thorough assessments and humane methods. Together, we can promote advice that truly helps dogs thrive.

 

Bibliography

 

1. Todd, Z. (2025). Does Social Media Affect Social Norms on Dog Training? Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/fellow-creatures/202508/does-social-media-affect-social-norms-on-dog-training
2. Barcelos, A. M., et al. (2019). A review of medical conditions and behavioral problems in dogs and cats. Animals, 10(1), 113. 
3. Mills, D. S., et al. (2020). Pain and Problem Behavior in Cats and Dogs. Animals, 10(2), 318. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7071134/
4. Hennessy, M. B. (2020). Psychological stress, its reduction, and long-term consequences in dog shelters. Animals, 10(11), 2061. 
5. Pavlov, I. P. (1927). Conditioned Reflexes. Oxford University Press. 
6. Sam The Dog Trainer. (n.d.). Hidden Pain, Hidden Trauma, and Hidden Dangers: The Real Drivers of Canine Aggression. https://samthedogtrainer.com/articles/hidden-pain-hidden-trauma-and-hidden-dangers-the-real-drivers-of-canine-aggression
7. Sam The Dog Trainer. (n.d.). Dog Behavior Modification vs Medications: What Works. https://samthedogtrainer.com/articles/dog-behavior-modification-vs-medications-what-works