Graeme Hall faces criticism over dog training methods ahead of Strictly debut
Graeme Hall, the TV dog trainer signed to compete on Strictly Come Dancing in 2026, was expected to boost ratings among the show's traditionally loyal mature audience following years of scandals. However, he has found himself facing significant criticism for his dog training methods, which experts say are outdated and potentially harmful to animals.
Hall's show, Channel 5's Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly, has come under fire for what critics say are "dominance theory" methods rather than modern science-based positive reinforcement techniques. A 2022 episode in which he dismissed a labrador as a "diva" when she may have been in pain sparked a petition with nearly 8,000 signatures calling for the show to be cancelled. Additionally, producers working on the show have been accused of asking qualified dog trainers to offer expertise without credit.
- Dog trainer Graeme Hall criticised for using outdated training methods on his show.
- Nearly 8,000 people signed petition calling for his Channel 5 programme to be axed.
- Strictly contestant accused of not crediting expert trainers who contributed to his show.
New here? Start with this
Graeme Hall is a dog trainer known for presenting Channel 5's Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. He was signed to compete on Strictly Come Dancing in 2026 and was expected to appeal to the show's traditionally mature audience.
His dog training methods have come under scrutiny from animal behaviour experts who argue they are outdated and potentially harmful. The show has been criticised for relying on "dominance theory" techniques rather than modern positive reinforcement methods that are supported by scientific research.
A 2022 episode sparked particular controversy when Hall dismissed a labrador as a "diva" despite the animal showing signs that suggested it may have been in pain. The incident prompted a petition with nearly 8,000 signatures calling for the show to be cancelled, and producers have also faced accusations of not crediting qualified dog trainers who contributed expertise.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Hall's methods emphasize clear structure, boundaries, and consistency—elements his supporters argue remain effective for serious behavioural problems that may not respond adequately to positive reinforcement alone. His long television career and evident client satisfaction demonstrate practical results in improving dogs' behaviour and owners' safety. Whilst modern science questions dominance theory, practitioners contend that real-world effectiveness should weigh heavily alongside theoretical considerations.
The case against
The scientific consensus among animal behaviourists has decisively rejected dominance theory in favour of evidence-based positive reinforcement methods, which research shows are both more humane and more effective. Hall's outdated approach risks causing unnecessary stress and anxiety to dogs; his apparent dismissal of a labrador's potential pain illustrates serious welfare concerns, and the substantial public support for the petition reflects justified concerns that his methods fall short of modern standards for ethical, science-based animal care.
Read the full article at the source →
Originally published by Daily Mail as “The BBC thought he’d be the ‘safe’ Strictly signing of the year… but ‘Dogfather’ Graeme Hall’s ‘outdated’ behaviour has landed him in the doghouse”.