Behaviour cases
There is a huge difference between training dogs and dog behavioural modification.
When people talk about "training", predominantly they are concerned with things such as puppy socialisation, recall, lead walking,
sit, stay, etc - all the things that we need to teach our dogs so that they can live happily in a family home. And of course owners
often go further with training, expanding into more demanding skills such as agility, gundog work, competitive obedience, etc.
Behaviour cases however are very different. A behaviour case is always a problem for the owner - some maladaption to everyday
life that has been made by the dog. Commonly seen are forms of aggression, separation related issues, resource guarding,
livestock chasing, to name a few.
Dogs with behavioural issues cannot be simply "trained" to behave differently - this is why it is essential that anyone seeking
help with a behaviour problem does so from a qualified behavourist. It is very easy to make a behavioural problem worse, without
even realising it.
Of course, the boundaries between a need for training and a need for behavioural modification are often not clear cut.
If you are unsure about what would help you and your dog most, please contact us. If training is the answer, then we can offer
you several opportunities in our classes to do this. If there is a behavioural problem, then you can consult with Jan, who will advise
you of your options.
Jan is a qualified behaviourist and an affiliate member of the COAPE Association of Pet Behaviourists and Trainers
