Dog behaviour traning is the training of dogs for obedience and specific behaviors such as recall, wait/stay, walk on-leash without pulling and greeting people and other animals politely. It can also include treatment of behavior problems like resource guarding, handling issues, some types of aggression and excessive barking or meowing. A qualified animal behaviorist can treat any problem that is causing significant stress, fear or anxiety for the dog.
To be successful in dog behaviour traning, an animal trainer needs to have an in-depth understanding of both human and dog body language at a level that allows them to identify underlying emotions in the behavior. They must also understand the principles of learning theory and be able to use various tools to change the behavior. This can range from positive reinforcement to the use of punishment, depending on the circumstances.
While positive reinforcement is useful in most training, it cannot stop some behaviors. For example, if your dog has separation anxiety and reacts to being left alone by chewing on miscellaneous items or acting inappropriately, positive reinforcement will only encourage the behavior. To get rid of the behavior, your trainer will likely have to employ a technique called desensitization or flooding. This involves repeatedly exposing the dog to the stimulus until it stops responding. However, this is very stressful for the dog and can be dangerous if not done correctly.
In some cases, when other methods have failed, a veterinarian may prescribe medication to help treat the problem. However, the most effective approach is to combine drug treatment with behavioral modification techniques. A professional dog trainer or animal behaviorist will work with your veterinarian to formulate an appropriate plan for your pet. Did you know that you can visit https://www.bulldogology.net/ for professional advise?
The training process can take from 8 weeks to a year or more. This is because behavioural training is often used to address behavior that has developed over time and may be ingrained in the dog’s brain. In addition, dogs’ personalities and temperaments can affect their learning speed.
Dogs that are well-trained behave better in the home and on walks and are less prone to destructive behavior. They will also be more accepting of visitors and less aggressive when greeting people. This can save you money on damages caused by your pet and make it easier to entertain guests in your home.
When choosing a professional for dog behaviour traning, it is important to find one with both academic training (either a master’s or doctoral degree) and practical experience. Some animal behaviorists and trainers also charge more than other professionals, but this is usually because they have more extensive knowledge and can handle complex situations that many others would not be able to. They are also more likely to be able to treat the most difficult, serious or dangerous behaviour problems. However, you should never rely solely on dog behaviour traning to train your dog for life-saving or safety skills. You must teach your dog these skills through regular practice at home and on outings with you.
