The Creation of Dogs
The Creator noticed that humans were having a difficult time surviving on their own. So, the Creator gathered the spirit animals – like the beaver, the moose, the deer, the elk, and the buffalo – and told them, “Spirit animals, you need to go help the humans. Your meat will provide food, your bones will be tools, and your hides will be shelter.” The spirit animals agreed and went to help humans. The Creator also had a special animal in mind to help the humans: the wolf. The Creator said to the wolf, “You are the most important of all the spirit animals. You will provide guidance to hunt, transportation, protection, and be the special animal to humans.” The wolf said, “No! I want nothing to do with humans.” The Creator then made the dog and gave it to the humans. The dog lived a special life with humans, and the humans greatly benefited from the dog. The wolf noticed that the dog had regular meals, shelter, protection, and a good friend. And the wolf said to the Creator, “I think I have made a mistake and wish to help humans.” The Creator said, “It is too late, and the humans now have my special gift to them: the dog.” And the Creator then said to the wolf, “At night, you will now cry and howl at the moon for your lost chance to be humans’ best friend and my spirit link to all humankind.” This is how dogs came to be – Aboriginal Cree Elder.
What is a Certified Dog Behaviour Practioner?
What’s the Difference Between a Dog Trainer and a dog behaviour specialist? The roles of a dog trainer and a dog behaviour specialist, while often overlapping, have distinct focuses and methodologies when it comes to working with dogs. **Dog Trainer:** A dog trainer primarily focuses on teaching dogs basic commands, manners, and sometimes more complex tasks or tricks. This training can include obedience training, crate training, leash training, and teaching the dog to perform specific behaviors on command. The goal is to foster better communication between dogs and their owners, ensuring the dogs know how to behave in various situations. Dog trainers work with a wide range of behaviours, mostly those that are trainable through repetition and positive reinforcement. While a dog trainer might help teach your dog to sit, stay, or come when called, a dog behaviour specialist would be the go-to professional for addressing and correcting deeper, more ingrained behavioural issues. Often, behaviour specialists have advanced education in animal behavior, psychology, or a related field, and they apply a variety of behaviour modification techniques tailored to the individual dog’s issues. **Dog Behavior Specialist (also known as a Canine Behaviorist or Animal Behaviorist):** A dog behaviour specialist delves deeper into the psychological aspects of canine behaviour, addressing complex behavioral issues that often stem from anxiety, fear, aggression, or past trauma. They are skilled in understanding and modifying behavior that is problematic or potentially dangerous. Dog behaviour specialists use their knowledge of animal behavior theory, learning theory, and ethology to assess and formulate behaviour modification plans. They often work with cases that require a more nuanced understanding of animal behavior, such as separation anxiety, excessive barking, aggression towards people or other animals, and phobias. “Earning my Certified Dog Behaviour Consultant designation from the CIDBT was the most challenging and satisfying accomplishment of my professional life.” Philip Alain CIDBT GODT MPDTI Why would someone work with a Certified dog behaviourist practitioner near me? It’s simple. You want to work with an educated, experienced specialist who uses the most-up-to date science and humane methods to help you safely, effectively, and ethically change your dogs behaviour. If your dog is exhibiting the following, get in touch with a certified dog behaviourist, aggressive behaviour to people or dogs aggressive behaviour to other dogs dysfunctional/OCD behaviours separation related behaviours destructive behaviours in an adult dog anxiety, fears and phobias resource guarding of food, space, etc. dog bites, classified “dangerous dog” inappropriate urination, including marking self harm such as paw licking or tail biting Behaviour consultants are pet detectives! Philip Alain CIDBT GODT MPDTI
Socialisation is for Human parties, not Puppies and about puppy socialisation
Fostering positive socialisation for your puppy involves a thoughtful approach. Gradual exposure to various environments, controlled interactions with distractions at a comfortable distance, and ensuring your puppy feels safe contribute to building confidence. While traditional puppy classes may not be the ideal setting for managing distractions, finding alternative ways to expose your puppy gently can strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend. Remember, it’s all about creating positive experiences that shape your puppy’s behavior in a way that fosters trust and attention to you, the owner. About environmental socializing for puppies in a one-on-one setting? In the journey of environmental socializing for your puppy, selecting diverse locations is key. Opt for places where distractions are at a distance, allowing your puppy to stay focused on training tasks. This one-on-one approach creates a positive environment for learning and reinforces your bond. Navigating the nuances of environmental socializing involves a delicate balance Introducing controlled distractions, such as other people or dogs, too closely can disrupt your puppy’s focus on positive training tasks. By maintaining a distance that allows your puppy to stay engaged, you create a positive learning environment. Let’s delve into how managing these nuances contributes to successful one-on-one environmental socialization. Selecting the right location is crucial for successful one-on-one environmental socialization Setting the stage for your puppy to relish the experience involves careful planning. Ensuring your puppy isn’t startled or alarmed by new distractions in the environment contributes to a positive and enjoyable learning experience. Let’s explore the art of choosing the perfect setting for your puppy’s growth and confidence in the face of distractions. Choosing various locations, like public beaches and quiet corners in parks, enhances the environmental socializing experience. Steering clear of crowds ensures you and your puppy can enjoy the outing without unnecessary distractions. Opting for quieter spots fosters a positive learning environment for your puppy. Let’s explore the benefits of selecting different locations to make each outing a rewarding and enjoyable experience for both you and your furry friend. Allowing puppies to navigate with confidence When your puppy can navigate distractions, focus on training tasks, and respond positively, it’s a win-win for everyone involved. The owner gets rewarded by seeing the puppy’s progress and engagement. This synergy between effective training and a puppy’s positive response creates a fulfilling and successful journey for both. Let’s delve deeper into the symbiotic relationship between distraction management, training tasks, and the joy of seeing your puppy flourish. Philip Alain CIDBT GODT MPDTI Socialising my puppy Jack
Separation Anxiety-Related Behaviour in Dogs
Separation anxiety in dogs is a condition where a dog experiences excessive stress and fear when separated from their owners. It’s more than just a little whimper when you leave; it’s a serious condition that can lead to destructive behavior, excessive barking, and even self-harm. Recognizing the signs and addressing this issue early can make a significant difference in the wellbeing of your furry friend. Symptoms of Separation Anxiety Dogs with separation anxiety exhibit behaviours that signal distress. These signs can include: Destructive Behaviour: Chewing on furniture, doors, or window sills; digging at doorways or thresholds. Excessive Barking or Howling: Persistent vocalization when left alone, which is out of character for their normal behaviour. Pacing:Walking or trotting along a specific path in a fixed pattern when alone Attempts to Escape: Trying to dig under or chew through fences, doors, or crates to escape and reunite with their owner. Panting and Drooling: More than what’s normal, especially when it seems out of context. Refusal to Eat: Skipping meals or treats when left alone, even if they are usually food-motivated.While alot of dog trainers are not entirely sure what causes Separation Anxiety or how it develops. It’s important to keep in mind that they might not have the experience and qualififcations of a dog Behaviourist and that’s why it’s important to choose the right professional for the right task. For example, not every puppy who left the litter early and was re-homed multiple times grows up to be a dog with Separation Anxiety. Genetics. Other factors may be key to whether that programming pops up Lack of experience being alone for a formative part of life Lack of experience being alone for an extended period of adult life and THEN left longer than the dog can tolerate. Such as returning to work after a period of unemployment, a global pandemic, or after a summer break. (This causes a dog to sensitize to absences and creates distress.) Poor nutrition and extreme stress on a pregnant dog can trigger hormonal changes that affect the offspring for life Leaving the safety and warmth of littermates at too young of an age Changes in the family’s makeup, such as a death, a birth, or a move Traumatic separation, such as the sudden and extended separation from a family member (human or animal), being returned to a shelter or re-homing The goal in managing separation anxiety is to create a safe, calm environment that reduces the stress your dog feels when you’re not together. Here are some strategies: Gradual Desensitization: Slowly acclimate your dog to being alone by leaving them alone for short periods and gradually increasing the time as they become more comfortable. Create a Safe Space: Designate a comfortable area in your home where your dog can relax when you’re away. Consistent Routine: Dogs thrive on routine. Keeping a consistent schedule for feeding, walks, and playtime can provide stability and reduce anxiety. Exercise: Ensure your dog gets plenty of physical and mental exercise. A tired dog is generally more relaxed and calm. Professional Help: The best way, is to seek guidance of a professional dog trainer or a dog behaviour specialist is necessary. They can offer tailored strategies and support for severe cases. Will letting my dog “cry it out” cure Separation Related Stress? Please don’t do this. When we are looking at changing the way a dog feels about a scary situation (in this case, being alone), we need to ensure that we are only moving as quickly as they are comfortable. By allowing the dog to go into an increased state of stress, we risk not creating lasting behavior change and risk making matters worse. Should I spend less time with my dog to get them accustomed to not having me around It sounds logical, I agree. But spending less time with your dog or preventing them from engaging in their normal routine with you is likely to increase, not decrease, their stress. Stick with very slowly increasing your dog’s alone time. It sounds logical, I agree. But spending less time with your dog or preventing them from engaging in their normal routine with you is likely to increase, not decrease, their stress. Stick with very slowly increasing your dog’s alone time. Can’t I just give my dog his favorite treats while I am gone? A food toy may or may not help. Sometimes it gives false evidence of the dog being “fine,” and once the delicious treat is gone, the dog panics. Many dogs are too worried to eat food while they are alone but instead, start associating it with alone-time (and now the treat has become a predictor of their person leaving). You can add mental enrichment to your dog’s regimen once they have attained a solid level of comfort with absences. Can puppies have Separation Anxiety? Most puppies whine or cry a little when left alone or until they are comfortable in a crate. True separation anxiety is defined as destructive or disruptive behaviour by a puppy, including tearing up the room, constant barking and whining, or inappropriate elimination when left alone. Please speak to a professional to rule out other concerns for your puppy. Can I sneak away when my dog isn’t paying attention? When this tactic fails (it usually does), it breaks down trust and causes the dog to be even more alert to absences. It triggers more anxiety in the dog, which leads to more shadowing. This could potentially create a huge back-step in a training protocol. Conclusion Separation anxiety can be challenging for both dogs and their owners, but with patience, understanding, and the right approach, it can be managed effectively. Remember, every dog is different, and what works for one may not work for another. It’s about finding the right balance and approach that suits your dog’s individual needs. Through consistent effort and possibly professional guidance, you can help your dog feel more secure, even when they’re alone. This blog post aims to
YOU GOT TWO PUPPIES?! HERE’S MY ADVICE FOR LITTERMATES…
The Double Delight Navigating the Challenges of Raising Two Puppies Bringing home a puppy can be a joyful and enriching experience. Doubling that pleasure with two puppies might seem like an even better idea. However, before you decide to bring home those adorable siblings, it’s important to understand the unique challenges this situation presents, notably, littermate syndrome. This post will explore the considerations of getting two puppies at the same time and offer strategies to ensure both pups grow into well-adjusted, independent dogs. Understanding Littermate Syndrome Littermate syndrome refers to a host of behavioural issues that can arise when puppies from the same litter (or of similar ages) are raised together. These issues stem from the intense bond that can form between the puppies, often to the detriment of their individual development. Symptoms of littermate syndrome include: Difficulty in Training: Puppies may become so focused on each other that they ignore human commands or guidance. Fearfulness of Strangers or Novel Situations: When puppies rely solely on each other for comfort, they may not learn to cope independently in new situations or with unfamiliar people. Inter-Dog Aggression: As they reach maturity, dogs with littermate syndrome may exhibit aggressive behavior towards each other, often stemming from issues of dominance and territory. Anxiety When Separated: Even brief separations can cause distress, leading to destructive behaviors or excessive vocalization.Strategies for SuccessWhile the challenges are real, successfully raising two puppies at the same time is possible with the right approach: Separate Training Sessions: Training each puppy individually to ensure they learn to listen to commands and develop a strong bond with you, not just each other.Individual Attention: Spend quality one-on-one time with each puppy every day. This helps to strengthen their individual identities and ensures they bond with humans as well as with each other. Separate Socialization: It’s crucial that each puppy has separate experiences to build their confidence independently. This includes walks, playdates, and trips to new environments. Crate Training: Consider using separate crates or sleeping arrangements to promote independence at night and during downtime. Monitoring Play: Ensure their play is healthy and balanced. If one puppy is always dominant, intervene and separate them if necessary to prevent bullying behaviors. The Benefits of Dual Puppy Rearing Despite these challenges, raising two puppies simultaneously can have its rewards. With the proper management, puppies can benefit from constant companionship, which can ease the stress of a new environment and help with learning social cues from each other. Additionally, having two dogs can ultimately double the fun and love in your home. Conclusion Adopting two puppies can be a fulfilling experience, but it requires a significant commitment to training and socialization to prevent littermate syndrome. By investing time in their individual development, you can help ensure your puppies grow into well-behaved, sociable dogs. Remember, the goal is to have two well-adjusted dogs who are bonded with each other as well as with their human family. With patience, dedication, and the right strategies, you can enjoy the unique joys of raising two puppies together. Raising two puppies presents unique challenges, but with careful planning and commitment, it can lead to a rewarding experience. Ensuring each puppy develops its own identity and strong bond with their human companions is key to a happy, balanced home. Philip Alain CIDBT GODT MPDTI
“Positive reinforcement methods and Low expectation.”
High expectations in dog training often stem from an owner’s desire for immediate and flawless results from their K9 companions. This approach, while rooted in aspirations of excellence, inadvertently imposes an unrealistic burden on puppies and dogs. When owners seek the assistance of behaviourists or trainers, they often do so with the expectation that their pets will quickly transform into the idealized versions they envision. This expectation is not only unfair but also unrealistic, as it fails to acknowledge the individuality and natural behaviours of each dog. Such high expectations demand rapid progress and perfection right from the start, disregarding the individual learning curves and emotional capacities of animals. This pressure not only sets the stage for frustration and disappointment but can also strain the bond between the dog and its owner. Expecting immediate compliance and overlooking the natural process of learning and adaptation reveals a lack of empathy and understanding towards the inherent capabilities and pace of each dog. Conversely, adopting a low expectation mindset shifts the focus towards a more nurturing and patient approach to training. This philosophy acknowledges that every dog is unique, with its own set of strengths, weaknesses, and learning pace. Low expectations are not about setting the bar low but about setting realistic, achievable goals that align with the dog’s current abilities and psychological readiness. This approach celebrates incremental progress, understanding that every small step forward is a significant achievement in the broader context of training and relationship building. It’s about working with the dog at its current level, providing support and encouragement through a program that is not only fair and achievable but also enjoyable for both the dog and the trainer. Emphasising low expectations in training underscores the importance of patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. It recognizes that true success in training comes from a deep understanding of the dog’s needs, abilities, and emotional state. By allowing puppies and dogs to learn and understand at their own pace, trainers foster a supportive environment where learning is associated with positive experiences rather than pressure and stress. This compassionate approach not only facilitates more effective learning but also strengthens the bond between dogs and their owners, built on mutual respect and understanding. In essence, high expectations in dog training, with their focus on immediate results and perfection, can be seen as a selfish imposition that fails to consider the well-being and natural abilities of the dog. In stark contrast, low expectations prioritiSe the dog’s needs, promoting a training journey that is both fulfilling and respectful of the dog’s pace and capacity for learning. This thoughtful approach ensures that training is a rewarding and positive experience, emphasing the development of a healthy, lifelong bond between dogs and their owners. Philip Alain CIDBT GODT MPDTI
The Realities of Modern DogTraining:
Unveiling the Commercial Curtain, In recent decades, the dog training industry has undergone a profound transformation, morphing into a highly commercialised sphere. At the heart of this shift is the widespread promotion of puppy training classes and dog training programs as indispensable steps to achieving a well-behaved pet. This narrative, driven by a booming industry, leans heavily on the notion that standardised classes are a non-negotiable aspect of responsible dog ownership. However, it’s crucial to peel back the layers of this belief and examine the realities of modern dog training, particularly its one-size-fits-all approach and its roots in commercial interests. Many dog training classes and programs are, in fact, based on business models that have been packaged and sold as part of certification courses for aspiring trainers. This approach often results in a standardised curriculum that fails to account for the unique personalities, learning styles, and needs of individual dogs. Rather than tailoring methods to suit the dog and owner, these programs tend to enforce a uniform set of rules and expectations, subtly implying that deviation from these norms equates to failure. The insistence on the necessity of puppy classes and structured training regimes is not just misleading; it’s a reflection of a wider trend towards commodification within the industry. Dog owners are frequently bombarded with messages suggesting that without enrolling in these classes, they are somehow neglecting their duties and jeopardising their chances of nurturing a harmonious relationship with their pet. This narrative serves the interests of a sector that thrives on conformity and consumer buy-in, rather than genuine, individualised K9 well-being. This is not to undermine the value of training itself, which plays a vital role in facilitating communication and ensuring safety. However, the distinction must be made between training that respects and adapts to the individual dog and owner, and training that adheres rigidly to a commercial template. The former fosters understanding and growth, while the latter often leads to frustration and disconnection. The time has come to challenge the prevailing dogma of the dog training world. It’s essential to recognise that the journey of living with and learning from a dog is highly personal and cannot be effectively standardised. Dog owners should feel empowered to seek out training options that resonate with their values and the unique character of their pet, rather than feeling coerced into conforming to an impersonal, business-driven model. Ultimately, the goal is to cultivate a relationship built on mutual understanding, respect, and love, rather than on the ability to tick off a list of commands or behaviours. By stepping away from the commercialised narrative and embracing a more personalised approach to dog training, we can ensure that the journey we embark on with our K9 companions is as enriching and fulfilling as possible, for both parties involved. Philip Alain: Master Dog Trainer & Professional Behaviourist Practioner