Whilst most people can teach basic commands to a dog such as “sit” or “lie down’, it is very complex understanding the behaviour of a dog and why they do certain things. Many dogs can find themselves overwhelmed when facing issues such as anxiety, leash reactivity or aggression.
This article will help us understand why basic training may not always be enough and how animal behaviourists can help create a happier, healthier relationship between dogs and their humans.
More people are introducing dogs to their families and there has never been a greater need for some dog obedience training within the household. Popular breeds include Cockapoos, Labradoodles and other various mixed breeds.
Basic training – Is it enough?
Many people each year get puppies. Some end up in dogs homes and others get to become part of the family for their whole life.
Many believe that the most troubled dogs are the ones that end up in a dogs home, however many mixed-breed dogs are giving their owners a run for their money.
The Cockapoo is a mixed breed between a Poodle and a Cocker Spaniel. Cockapoos are very intelligent dogs in fact one of the most intelligent breeds out there, however they are also very nervous and this can be their downfall if not managed correctly.
An anxious dog can lead onto issues such as:
- Dog Aggression – Growling, lunging and snapping
- Panting – Also pacing back and forth or shaking
- Destructive Behaviour – Chewing furniture, digging at doors or tearing up items when left alone.
- Depression – Losing interest in playing, eating or interacting.
- Excessive Barking
This can make jobs for the owner hard such as taking your dog to the vets, going for a relaxing walk, grooming your pet or leaving them at home by themselves.
Whilst the owners have taught the dog basic commands, these aren’t helping in situations where the dog is anxious. In fact, not much is helping at all. Why is this?
What does a dog behaviourist do?
You might have been to puppy classes in the past where you were taught how to get your dog to sit, heel or stay. These are basic commands where a treat might be awarded afterwards. These are all essential skills when training your new puppy and are covered in the animal care level 3 course.
If an animal behaviourist is working with your dog, their training goes much further to the root of the cause. For example, if your dog is barking at another dog out of fear, commanding them to sit will not reduce the panic for next time. It is also very likely they won’t sit and their fears will be much worse next time round. If you then decide to shout at the animal, you are reinforcing their fear as they feel other dogs bring trouble.
A dog behaviourist doesn’t just stop these habits. They will look into the root cause of why the behaviour is happening. The animal behaviour course level 3 studies behaviour and learning which will allow you to act as follows:
- Find the root cause – Work out if the behaviour is coming from fear, pain, guarding or control
- Read Body Language – Catch subtle signs of stress before the dog reacts
- Build a Custom Plan – Build a step-by-step program to help the dog feel safe again
- Help the Owners and the animals – Teach owners how to build their dog’s confidence using positive reinforcement instead of punishment.
More households are seeking behaviourists to help them with their dogs. Whilst basic obedience training is imperative in helping dogs navigate human spaces safely, understanding the animal’s mind is also just as important.
A dog behaviourist must be patient, knowledgeable and committed to understanding why dogs act the way they do. As our understanding advances and high strung, intelligent breeds continue to fill our homes, dog behaviourists have never been more important.
For more information on our animal care courses, please see our Animal Care Course Page.
FAQs
Is obedience training enough for a dog?
It depends on the dog. Some have little fear and manage well whereas others have deeper emotional issues such as anxiety, leash reactivity or aggression.
Why are newer popular breeds more prone to behavioural issues?
Intelligent breeds such as the Cockapoo learn quickly, however they can be naturally nervous and therefore can develop behavioural problems when the anxiety isn’t managed properly.
What signs should I look out for if my dog is anxious?
Aggression such as growling, lunging or snapping. Physical distress such as panting, pacing or shaking. Destructive behaviour and excessive barking.
How does dog anxiety impact everyday life?
Owners may find basic tasks such as taking the dog for a walk, to the vets or groomers highly stressful. Even leaving the dog at home alone may not work.
Are there other jobs where a dog behaviourist course would be beneficial?
Yes there are. If you complete a dog behaviourist course, you don’t necessarily need to become a dog behaviourist. The dog behaviourist course will equip you with skills to work within a dog daycare centre, kennels, animal shelter or groomers as an assistant. If you have plans to become a house sitter or dog walker, the course would also be beneficial for this too.