Ep.15: The Dark Side of R+ | Unpacking Coercion in Dog Training with Karishma Warr

04/08/2025 1h 7min
Ep.15: The Dark Side of R+ | Unpacking Coercion in Dog Training with Karishma Warr

Listen "Ep.15: The Dark Side of R+ | Unpacking Coercion in Dog Training with Karishma Warr"

Episode Synopsis


Can positive reinforcement be... coercive? 🤯 In this episode, I sit down with dog behavior expert Karishma Warr (@transformbehavior) to explore the often-unspoken power dynamics that can show up even in the most well-intentioned training. We talk about choice, consent, emotional pressure, and how to recognize when your dog is simply complying — not healing. If you're interested in truly ethical, relationship-based training that goes beyond surface-level R+, this is a must-listen. 
IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVER:


What coercion really means in a positive reinforcement context

How basic rights and fundamental needs of pet dogs don't need to be worked for

The 3 pillars of coercive relationships with our dogs: Deprivation, High-Stakes, and Authoritarian


How power dynamics and pressure can show up even in “force-free” training


Genetic coercion in dogs and its impact particularly on "high-drive" breeds


The evolution of dog training, and how simply using rewards in training is not enough


 
CONNECT WITH KARISHMA WARR Instagram: @transformbehavior Website: www.transformbehavior.com
CONNECT WITH ASHLEY CIPOLLETTI
Instagram: @co_regulatedk9sWebsite: www.coregulatedk9s.com
🎁 FREE GUIDE Want to stay calm when your dog is losing it? Grab my free guide: 👉 How to Stay Calm When Your Dog Is Losing It

More episodes of the podcast The Co-Regulated K-9s Podcast