INTRODUCTION
How a dog behaviourist can help
Are you fed up of dealing with your dogs bad habits? Whether it’s excessive barking, destructive chewing, Jumping up, pulling on the lead, separation anxiety, running off or any other behaviours that you find difficult and even dangerous. This post will explain how a dog behaviourist can help. A good behaviourist that has tons of expertise in dog training and understanding of dog behaviour. An expert dog behaviourist like this, can be a complete game changer for you. As the behaviourist works closely, with you and your dog in its environment, drastic improvements can be made. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of working with a top dog behaviourist and how they can help you and your loyal companion live a happy and harmonious life together. Let us dig deeper into how a behaviourist can help you and your dog.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR DOGS BEHAVIOUR
Dogs are amazing animals with that can display complex behaviour patterns. To truly understand, modify or rehabilitate their behaviour, it’s important to have a solid foundation of knowledge about their basic instincts and needs.
One crucial aspect of understanding your dog’s behaviour is recognising their natural instincts. While older scientific studies point towards dogs being descendants of wolves. Meaning they have inherited certain behaviours from their ancestors. For example, dogs have a natural instinct to form packs and establish hierarchies within those packs. This is where we hear the phrase “Pack Leader” This somewhat old fashion terminology may apply to some dogs like Huskies it certainly isn’t relevant with your average, Labrador or Spaniel. So we examine the behaviour from a different view point, one in which dogs have basic needs. Depending on the breed those may differ slightly. Generally speaking they all want to feel safe and secure, they want to be able to protect their space, and guard things of value to them. Living with humans is not always easy for many dogs as our habits may sometimes conflict with theirs.
Another element of understanding your dog’s behaviour is realising the importance of mental stimulation. Dogs need more than just physical exercise; they also need mental exercise to keep their minds engaged and active. Boredom can lead to destructive behaviours, excessive barking, and other unwanted habits. Providing mental stimulation through activities such as puzzle toys, interactive games, and engagement training can help prevent these behaviours and promote a happier, healthier dog.
After understanding your dog’s instincts and the importance of mental stimulation, it’s essential to recognise the potential benefits of dog behaviour rehabilitation. Finding out the underlying causes of problem behaviours and working to modify them through positive reinforcement and training.. A dog behaviourist can assess your dog’s behaviour, they can identify any underlying issues, (quite often health related) then with a better understanding they can tailor a plan to address them effectively.
By understanding the basics of your dog’s behaviour, you can provide the necessary support and guidance to help them overcome any problematic habits. In the next section, we will explore some of the common problematic habits in dogs and how to identify them.
IDENTIFYING THE PROBLEM BEHAVIOURS
Does your dogs behaviour drive you up the wall? Is owning your dog not much fun at times? Some of the more common and frustrating behaviours like excessive barking, destructive chewing can make owners wish they had never got their dog. Other behaviour like, pulling and lunging on the lead can also lead to moments of pulling your hair out. All these behaviours can be frustrating for both you and your dog. But don’t worry, you are not alone let us identify and understand some common problematic behaviours in dogs.
Let’s start with barking. Whilst barking is normal practice for dogs, it can some instances becoming difficult to stop. Excessive barking is one of the most popular requests, that top dog behaviourist Jenni Molland of Salisbury dog trainers, is called on to help with. It’s important to determine the underlying cause of your dog’s barking. There are a whole bunch of reasons for this and they could be, boredom, anxiety, fear, or simply a need for attention? Understanding the root cause will help you address the issue effectively. Also learning how to communicate with them so they understand what you are asking them to do.
Another common habit is destructive chewing. Dogs may chew on furniture, shoes, or other household items for various reasons. It could be due to teething, boredom, anxiety. Again effectively communicating with your dog can help to change this behaviour. Providing a good amount of daily physical and mental stimulation can also help to reduce this.
Jumping up at their owners or visitors is another habit that many dogs struggle with. Whilst it may seem harmless, it can be intimidating or even dangerous, especially for children or elderly individuals. Training your dog to greet people calmly and politely can prevent any accidents or injuries.
To address these types of behaviours, can be too much for most of us. There are millions of online resources and courses that claim they can help. While this may work for a few, in general working with a dog behaviourist on a one to one basis, Is always recommended and its is sure fire way to get to the bottom of the WHY?. A dog behaviourist can conduct a thorough assessment of your dog’s behaviour and come up with a plan to modify their habits. They may incorporate techniques such as positive reinforcement, redirection, and engagement training to teach your dog more appropriate behaviours. Teaching you the owners how to train your own dog is also paramount to the success of this type of training, after all they are your dogs.
HOW A DOG BEHAVIOURSIST CAN HELP YOUR DOG
If your dog is displaying behaviour that is not socialable or difficult to live with. Then looking for professional help from a dog behaviourist can make a world of difference. Top dog behaviourists are trained in understanding and addressing the root causes of problem behaviours and habits, and they can provide you with the guidance and tools you need to create a happier environment for both you and your best friend.
A professional dog behaviourist can provide a fresh perspective on your dog’s behaviour. Whereas you have been worn down by the behaviour, the expert will see things completely different and with a fresh approach. So if it’s excessive barking, destructive chewing, jumping up, pulling on the lead or any other problem, a behaviourist can identify the triggers and develop a plan of action to improve and hopefully fully correct the behaviour.
In addition to their expertise, dog behaviourists use a variety of techniques to modify a dogs behaviour. Positive reinforcement is a key component of our approach, rewarding your dog for desirable behaviours and ignoring or redirecting unwanted behaviours. They may also incorporate engagement training, which involves mentally stimulating activities to keep your dog’s mind engaged and prevent boredom-related behaviours.
Dog behaviour rehabilitation is another important aspect of a behaviourist’s role. They understand that problem behaviours are often a result of underlying issues such as anxiety, fear, or past trauma. By addressing these root causes and providing appropriate training and support, a behaviourist can help your dog overcome what ever it is causing the problems.
Seeking out the right expert is not always easy. Top dog behaviourists will have a track record of transforming the lives of both dogs and their owners. By reading reviews on their websites is one way to sort the wheat from the chaff. Also look for transparency. Top dog behaviourists will have some sort of introduction video on their website. Allowing the prospective clients to get an understanding of who they are hiring. Most top behaviourists will have at least 10+ years experience. It is not all about awards and qualifications in this industry, as for a few hundred pounds you can do online courses that teach you next to nothing.
So, if you’re tired of dealing with your dog’s problematic behaviours, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a dog behaviourist. With their guidance and expertise, you can break those bad habits for good and enjoy a happier, more fulfilling life with your furry friend.
POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT, REDIRECTION & ENGAGEMENT
Behaviourists can use a range of techniques to modify a dogs behaviour. It is important to understand the differences in this styles and techinques. There are thousands of science based studies that show positive reinforcement gets the best results all round. This involves rewarding your dog for exhibiting the good behaviours. Rewards can come in the shape of treats, praise, or even playtime as a form of reinforcement. By consistently rewarding your dog for positive behaviour, they will learn what is expected of them and be more likely to repeat those actions.
Redirection is another effective technique used by behaviourists. If your dog is engaging in a problematic behaviour, such as destructive chewing, a behaviourist will redirect their attention to a more appropriate outlet. This could be providing them with appropriate chew toys or engaging them in an interactive game to keep their minds stimulated.
Engagement training is also an important tool used by behaviourists. This involves providing mental stimulation through activities such as puzzle toys, obedience training, and interactive games. Keeping your dog’s mind engaged helps prevent boredom and reduces the likelihood of them engaging in destructive or excessive behaviours.
Behaviourists also utilise a technique called desensitisation, which involves gradually exposing your dog to the triggers that cause their problem behaviours. For example, if your dog barks excessively when they see other dogs, a behaviourist may start by exposing them to the sight of other dogs from a distance and gradually decrease the distance over time. This helps your dog become more comfortable and less reactive in the presence of those triggers.
Finally, dog behaviour rehabilitation plays a significant role in modifying dogs behaviour. Behaviourists understand that problem behaviours are often a result of underlying issues such as anxiety, fear, or past trauma. By addressing these root causes and providing appropriate training and support, behaviourists can help your dog overcome their problematic habits and develop healthier patterns of behaviour.
All of the examples above are part of a positive reinforcement training program. By employing these techniques and tailoring them to your dog’s specific needs, behaviourists can help you break those bad habits for good and create a more harmonious relationship with your furry companion. So, if you’re struggling with your dog’s behaviours, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a dog behaviourist who can provide the guidance and expertise needed to achieve positive and lasting change.
REAL LIFE STORIES
Are you curious to hear some real-life success stories, Jenni Molland of Salisbury dog trainers has thousands to talk of. So here are a couple of them, with the hope that it can inspire you to seek help with your dog.
Luna who had a serious problem with destructive chewing. Her owners were at their wits’ end, constantly replacing chewed-up furniture and shoes. It was costing them an absolute fortune and also was really embarrassing when guests came round. They decided to contact Jenni, who assessed Max’s behaviour and identified the underlying cause – boredom. With Jenni’s expertise in dog behaviour she was able to introduce Luna’s owners to a different way of handling things Part of the process involved redirection, giving Luna something appropriate to chew. Using stimulating brain games and teaching her owners how to engage with her correctly. There of course were other steps involved here, but its best not to give all the secrets away. Needless to say, over a matter of weeks, Luna had a complete turn around and now her family no longer have to keep replacing furniture.
Another success story comes from Talia, a dog who had an issue with excessive barking. Her owners were receiving complaints from neighbours, with threats of reporting them to the police and council. Talia’s owners enlisted the help of Jenni, who determined that Talia’s barking was due to separation anxiety. Through positive reinforcement and desensitisation techniques, Talia learned to cope with being alone and her excessive barking significantly reduced. Now, Talia and her owners can enjoy a peaceful home environment.
These success stories are not uncommon in the world of dog behaviourists. With their expertise, dedication, and tailored approach, they have transformed the lives of countless dogs and their owners. So if you’re feeling discouraged by your dog’s bad habits, remember that there is hope. Seek the help of a dog behaviourist and embark on a journey towards a happier, more harmonious relationship with your furry companion.
AND FINALLY
Creating a healthy and balanced relationship with your dog is essential for both their well-being and yours. By working with a dog behaviourist and implementing the techniques and strategies discussed in this blog post, you can break those bad habits and have a happier, more harmonious relationship with your dog.
Remember, understanding your dog’s behaviour is the first step towards modifying it. Take the time to learn about their instincts, needs, and the importance of mental stimulation. By providing them with appropriate physical and mental exercise, you can prevent boredom-related behaviours and promote a healthier lifestyle.
Identifying problematic habits is crucial for addressing them effectively. Excessive barking, destructive chewing, and jumping on guests can all be tackled with the help of a dog behaviourist. Seek professional help to assess your dog’s behaviour, determine the root causes, and develop a personalised plan to modify their habits.
The techniques employed by behaviourists, such as positive reinforcement, redirection, and engagement training, are powerful tools for transforming your dog’s behaviour. By consistently rewarding desired behaviours and redirecting their attention to more appropriate outlets, you can guide them towards more positive habits.
Real-life success stories prove that change is possible. Countless dogs have overcome their bad habits and established healthier patterns of behaviour with the guidance of a dog behaviourist. Don’t lose hope if you’re feeling discouraged – seek the help of a professional and embark on a journey towards a happier, more fulfilling relationship with your furry friend.
Recent Comments