The Revolutionary Training Methods of Ian Dunbar: A Different Approach to Dog Training

The Revolutionary Training Methods of Ian Dunbar

When it comes to dog training, there are two prominent figures that stand out in the industry: Cesar Millan and Ian Dunbar. While Cesar Millan is known for his dominance-based approach, Ian Dunbar takes a different, more positive-reinforcement approach to training dogs. And with his groundbreaking ideas and methods, Dunbar has made a significant impact on the world of dog training.

A Different Approach

Ian Dunbar’s philosophy revolves around treating dogs as companions and family members, rather than as submissive followers. His hands-off, reward-based approach has won over countless dog owners and trainers, who have found success in training their dogs using his methods.

“His contribution to this field is immeasurable,” says renowned dog trainer Patricia McConnell. “Ian Dunbar created an entirely new perspective about dog training. He deserves tremendous credit for teaching us to be loving with our dogs and to have fun with the training.”

Let’s Not Get Physical

Unlike Millan’s dominance-based philosophy and physical corrections, Dunbar emphasizes the importance of communication and positive reinforcement in training. He believes that training should be a rewarding experience for both the dog and the owner, and that even children can use his methods to become skilled trainers.

“Ian carried the torch for lure-and-reward training,” says Sue Sternberg, founder of Rondout Valley Animals for Adoption. “He converted an entire generation of yank ’em, crank ’em dog trainers into better communicators.”

Doctor, Teacher, Trainer

With a background in animal behavior and veterinary medicine, Ian Dunbar’s unique perspective on dog training has revolutionized the industry. He founded Sirius Dog Training in 1981, which has since become one of the country’s largest training centers, and introduced the concept of training puppies before six months of age using rewards rather than punishment.

“Ian Dunbar understood that problems up front lead to problems down the road and he pounded the podium talking about early socialization and enrichment,” says Nicholas Dodman, Professor of Animal Behavior at Tufts’ Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine.

Building on Success

Over the years, Ian Dunbar’s methods have gained worldwide recognition, and he has founded the Association of Pet Dog Trainers to promote trust-based relationships between humans and dogs. In 1999, he met Kelly Gorman, a fellow trainer and cofounder of Open Paw, and together they have continued to promote positive-reinforcement training methods.

Different Methods for Different Dogs

While Cesar Millan may be a household name, Ian Dunbar’s methods have proven to be successful for the average dog owner and professionals alike. With more families embracing positive-reinforcement training, Dunbar’s influence on the industry is undeniable.

“The fact is, people are enjoying training more and the amazing bond that develops through training, and that move toward positive reinforcement started with Ian Dunbar,” says Claudia Kawczynska, editor of Bark magazine.

With Ian Dunbar’s accessible and family-friendly techniques gaining popularity, it’s clear that his impact on the world of dog training will continue to be felt for years to come.

Visit the Dunbar Training Center: Everything you need to know to raise a well-behaved dog