At first I told him no, I didn’t do board/training work because at the time I felt owners were not following through, expecting the trainer to have reliably trained their dogs, with no commitment on their part necessary. Given the many options for using equipment, I still prefer using flat buckle collars, martingales, Gentle Leaders (if necessary), Easy Walks, and similar equipment. The problem I have with the arbitrary use of these other tools is most owners don’t have the skill to use them correctly and effectively, and many years ago one of our Doberman puppies, we had sold, hung himself on their chain link fence. However, unskilled handlers, trainers, and owners just as easily can be ineffective using a Gentle Leader, another reason why I believe dog owners need more help than ever.
Category: About Responsible Dog
Dominant dog or dog that just needs training?
This is a great example of an adult 3 year old M Vizsla correcting adolescent behavior from an 11 month old M Husky. When the two dogs first met, Bars tried mounting Hunter from the side a couple of times. Hunter corrected his behavior using the least amount of force. Bars continued to challenge Hunter, …
Continue reading Dominant dog or dog that just needs training?
Purpose
The purpose for this blog is to provide informed information regarding dogs, their ongoing welfare, training issues and promoting the human-animal bond. http://www.responsibledog.net/
Is the study of animal behavior being marginalized when used as a marketing tool?
I found a website yesterday, specializing in dog boarding. What alarmed me was they stated, "our camp counselors” are, “certified in dog behavior.” When I inquired, which I did, I was told they go through an in-house training program lasting a couple of weeks or less! The problem I see with using the designation “certified in dog behavior” is, it makes the study of animal behavior, appear to be no more than friendly dog advice obtained from anyone, while marginalizing the very individuals who can and are educated to help the most. This is a disservice to the dog owner and the industry.
What is the difference between training and behavior problem solving
“Behavior modification exercises are NOT, repeat NOT, obedience exercises. At the very outset, clients should be disabused of the notion that this is fancy obedience.” Karen L. Overall, MA, VMD, PhD, ACVB, ABS Center for Neurobiology and Behavior, Psychiatry Department, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. In August 2006, the first Journal of Veterinary Behavior was published. This first publication included an article titled “Good trainers: How to identify one and why this is important to your practice of veterinary medicine.” The article emphasized why it is important to choose the right dog trainer emphasizing characteristics, training methods, tools and how punishment should be addressed. Understanding the differences when making your choice for training and behavior problem solving creates a win-win situation for you and your pet.