July 15, 2025, 9:17 am | Read time: 4 minutes
When a dog exhibits unwanted behavior, a common piece of advice is: “You need to correct the dog!” But what exactly does that mean—and is correction really the right approach?
Dog trainer Katharina Marioth discusses common misconceptions about “correction” in an interview with PETBOOK, why many measures are problematic, and how to communicate with dogs respectfully and effectively instead. Her approach: Less punishment, more explanation—and specifically rewarding the right behavior.
Interruption Signal Instead of Punishment
PETBOOK: Katharina, as a dog owner, you often hear that you should “correct” your dog’s behavior. What does that actually mean?
Katharina Marioth: It largely depends on the underlying philosophy. Many people—not just dog trainers—work by interrupting or stopping unwanted behavior. The range includes physical measures like blocking with the hand, hissing sounds, water bottles, or throw chains, to simple interruptions, often without showing the dog an alternative behavior. I see this as the biggest problem.”
What does a correct correction look like?
“In my opinion, a ‘proper’ correction in the classical sense doesn’t really happen. Of course, I sometimes have to stop behavior, but that should be done through an interruption signal, not punishment. I teach the dog to stop a behavior at a word like ‘No’ or a gesture.
For example: My dog wants a cookie in my hand, I say ‘No’ and close my hand. This way, the dog learns in a friendly manner. Later, I can use this ‘No’ when he digs in the garden. Then I interrupt, wait briefly, and reward an alternative behavior. Important: I explain to the dog what he should do instead.”
Simply Correcting the Dog Often Doesn’t Help
How do you react to a dog that barks at other dogs on the leash?
“That’s a good example—but also complex! Several issues come together here: impulse control, lack of leash training, and lack of orientation to the owner. Just a correction doesn’t help. I have to show my dog beforehand what I expect. If he stays calm, I praise this behavior. Then I lead him out of the situation with a positively associated signal—like a ‘hand touch.’ We make a detour around the other dog and reduce the distance over several training sessions.”
What about dogs that jump on visitors?
“Here, too, positive reinforcement helps more than punishment. I like to use the ‘Casino Hand’ method: The puppy hears the door, I throw cookies on the floor—he’s occupied, stays down, the visitor comes in. Then I specifically reward the calm behavior.
While out, you can, for example, step on the leash so the dog can’t jump up, but without pressure on the collar. Again, staying down is rewarded until it’s internalized. Key point: Behavior that pays off is shown more often.”
Also interesting: Dog Trainer: “Raising Dogs Without Punishment? Difficult.”
Dog Trainer: “Raising Dogs Without Punishment? Difficult.”
Dog Ignoring You? What That Says About Your Relationship
Basic Commands Every Dog Should Know
From the Dog’s Perspective, Corrections Are Always Negative
Are corrections always negative?
“Generally, yes—at least from the dog’s perspective. Few people can perform a correction and then immediately become neutral and relaxed again. That requires enormous self-control.
That’s why I particularly advise against correcting the dog in leash handling. Even with professionals in training, I’m not a fan of it. The focus should be on building alternative behavior, not on punishment.”
About the Expert
Katharina Marioth is the founder of the brand Stadthundetraining and the KEML principle. She is a certified dog trainer and behavioral assessor for dangerous dogs in Berlin. In her daily work, she collaborates closely with veterinarians, scientists, and other specialists on dog-related topics. With her knowledge and skills, she secured the title of Dog Trainer of the Year 2023 in the Sat.1 show “The Dog Trainer Champion.”