Dog Parks vs. Dog Sports? You Decide
By Robert Forto, PhD
At my training center, Denver Dog Works and in my behavioral practice most of the problems we face are from dogs not getting enough or dogs getting into “trouble” while at the dog park. For those of you that read my articles you will know that I do not like dog parks. They are an ill-conceived idea by city planners that do not know anything about canine behavior.
Of course some do it right, like the nation’s only indoor dog park in Dallas, TX, Unleashed. They have trainers on staff and run the park more like a dog daycare rather than a canine free-for-all. But these conciseness people are few and far between.
Just this past month, The Association for Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) ran an article on this very issue; Inspiring Dog Owners Into Dog Sports and Out of Dog Parks (Sue Sternberg pg. 10-11). I just want to expound on that article for pet owners than may not have access the magazine.
The Dog Park Madness
Almost daily I get a call or an email from someone telling me about the problems they have with their dog because they think he is aggressive, or a story about how their dog was attacked when they were on walks or running loose at a local dog park. I have even addressed this problem and have a class that meets on Saturdays. I call it my Growl Class. You would be surprised of how many people have signed up for it. Not just owners with Colorado's classified banned breeds. We've had everything from miniature poodles to Old English sheep dogs.
People ask me how to deal with overly aggressive dogs that belong to other owners. They ask me to show them how to handle their dog so that they can "teach" someone at the dog park how to handle their dogs. They ask me questions about their own dog not trying to stick up for or defend themselves when they are approached by an aggressive dog. Many people have watched television shows and they were told that the dogs need to work it out for themselves. I say--so far from the truth!
The concept of dog parks was well intended but not a researched enough idea by the local, state, and city governments. The idea of a park is to bring people and families closer together-not to build internal strife and conflict that sometimes resembles doggie gang warfare! Many dog parks allow dogs to run off-leash in lush acreage of surrounding utopia--what a disaster. The main problem stems from people who just do not understand canine pack structure. The City Council's that set up these open space wonderlands are politician's not canine handlers--they should have consulted an expert. What it equals is that the dogs in these parks are out of control. Too often as well, the owners are completely oblivious as to what their dog is doing at the dog park. The owners are often observed using cell phones or doing other things that distract them from monitoring their own dogs' actions.
The average dog owner does not take the time to understand, much less install, pack structure. They do not know how strong the pack instincts are in their family pets. These drives can, and often do, click into high gear when a dog is taken into a park with strange dogs. I meet with people every day that come into my training center and they say that this dog is the alpha dog because he is the male, or he is older, or he is stronger, or he is my favorite. Canine pack behavior is a very complex dynamic that should not be under-estimated. I spent the better part of my career studying pack structure with a team of thirty-five Siberian husky sled dogs. I lived and slept with these dogs. I became a part of their pack. I learned many life lessons from them. The most important one: do not under estimate at dog's potential-ever.
When a new dog comes into a park that other dogs visit every day the new visitor is often seen as an intruder into "the personal territory" of the regular visitor. More often than not they are not seen as a new found friend. This often leads to either territorial aggression, dominance aggression or fear aggression. Instincts kick in and pandemonium develops. Owners are running and screaming towards their dogs, a fight breaks out and the utopia is now in chaos. Someone inevitably gets hurt.
DOG PACKS in the PARK
When a group of dogs, three or more, are allowed to run together in an area where there are no strong pack leaders (human pack leaders), they instinctively try to establish a rank order, or pecking order. If there are several dogs that want to assume a certain rank within this new pack there are often problems. Too often, this results in dog fights to determine what rank a dog will assume.
It is a mistake to assume that every dog in the park is a well-mannered, well-trained pet. Just because its playing with other dogs does not mean that it will play with your dog. The issue of rank has already been settled with these other dogs and the game may be going according to their rules. Your dog will not know the rules and can easily get into trouble. Too often when a fight breaks out between your dog and the leader of this pack the other dogs in the pack will also jump in and go after your dog.
The vast majority of dogs do not want to be pack leaders. They are perfectly happy with their owners assuming the position of leader. As such these dogs expect their pack leader--their owner-- to protect them. That's why these dogs will run to their owner when they fell threatened by another dog. When an owner does not protect his dog the dog is in conflict and loses confidence. When the owner ignores the perceived threat their dogs often move into fight or flight.
When you stop to think about it, normal people would never expect their young children to fight adults that were threatening their home. So why do people expect their young dogs to show aggression to older dogs? In most cases, the owners simply lack the understanding of pack drive and dog training. People get caught in the trap of thinking they have a German Shepherd from working police bloodlines and it should be tough!! Well, it doesn't work that way.
When new owners assume the position of pack leader and they do everything right when their pup is young the dog will grow up to be a confident adult dog. When owners drop the pack structure ball their dogs grow up to be dogs with aggressive issues (either overly aggressive or fearful). This is the primary focus of my work and why my aggression management classes are so successful. Canine training is not about training the dog. It is about educating the owner. I have been known to say that dog training is 90% people and 10% dog. I wholeheartedly believe that. I have conducted many seminars called "Leader of the Pack" and there is a weekly show on cable that promotes "Be a Pack Leader." But do you really know what that means? Do you know how much work, how much time and energy, how much of a commitment it is going to take to give you that empowerment? Being a pack leader to your dog can not, and should not, be compartmentalized in a 30-minute program where the magic of television makes everything alright.
Dog fights are scary business. They could literally mean life and death. I am sure you have heard the horror stories. Is this something that you are ready for? I have been bit hundreds of times--often by the cutest dogs in the neighborhood. I have respect for all dogs. And I make it my business to earn theirs. Aggressive dogs need to be dealt with by a professional. Not an arm-chair quarterback at a dog park shouting "leave it!" because they read a book, or watched a show or attended a chain store puppy class.
My Growl Class is a course out of necessity. People love their dogs and they love the outdoors. But dog parks are a plethora of chaos. Research shows that three out of four dogs are not trained. My definition of training has always been: "Control for you, routine for your dog". If you have a dog that needs work with aggression. If you would like to better understand canine pack structure or if you are tired of your dog getting into fights at the dog park give me a call and we'll talk about it.
Canine Sports
At Denver Dog Works we pride ourselves in being the premiere canine training center in the Rocky Mountain region that specializes in canine sports and working dogs. I have been involved in almost all canine sports at one time or another in my 19-year career in working with dogs. I have been a professional musher, I finished three Siberians in conformation (dog shows) and two as Obedience Trial Champions. I have competed in protection trials and taught many people how to dog sled, scooter and skijor. What does this all mean? It means at Denver Dog Works we can teach you and your dog the true meaning of intrinsic drives and proper exercise and to many dogs the thought of having a “job” to do is reason to celebrate!
As trainers we need to think outside the box a bit and encourage people to try new things with their dogs. In my opinion the dog park should be an option of last resort. What happened to the days of just walking your dog around the block a few times? Instead people are paying thousands of dollars at a doggie daycare because they feel guilty to leave their dog home alone while their child is a latch key kid with a cell phone with mom and dad calling on them every ten minutes to see if they are okay. Insanity.
In fact, most sports that you can participate in with your dog are relatively inexpensive, often less than a cup gourmet coffee a day, if not free.
Where do you go? Denver Dog Works of course. But if you are outside of the Rocky Mountain Region you may want to seek out a training center that offers canine sports classes like agility or competition obedience, tracking or even canine freestyle (dancing with your dog). There is even an organization called Dog Scouts that is like boy/girl scouts for dogs! In the Dog Scouts you and your dog work toward earning merit badges in a variety of sports and activities while promoting good dog training and proper behavior. Dog Scouts even has a camp that you can attend with your dog in Michigan, I think it is.
Give the Dog a Bone
As with any physical activity, the reward has to outweigh the work. Think about it. Is working out at the gym that fun? No. I hate it but the reward of losing weight and training for the Iditarod and feeling good about myself makes me go to the gym every other day.
Canine sports are no different. Once you find a sport that you and your dog enjoy it is easy to get hooked. What a better way to build friendship with fellow dog owners, keep your dog exercised physical and mental fit, and doing something that you enjoy.
“It’s a tough time to be dog. There is so much less access to open spaces, off-leash exercise in secluded rural land, owners have less time, busier schedules and a lot less financial freedom,” says Sternberg.
When an owner and their dog get hooked on to something they love and they excel at this will build a lifetime of bonding, training and community with your dog. This will not only help you and your dog but the community in which you live.
The time is now! Get out and do something with your dog and leave the gourmet coffee to the people that don’t have a dog!
If you would like to find out more about canine sports training or having one of the best trained dogs in the world, contact us at Denver Dog Works at 303-578-9881.
Tags: Dog Training Denver, Denver Dog Works, Denver Dog Trainers, Colorado Dog Trainers, Canine Sports, Working Dogs, #dogs #dogtraining #pets #forto #denver
Citation: The APDT Chronicle of the Dog, Jan-Feb 2010 pg. 10-15 Inspiring Dog Owners Into Dog Sports and Out of Dog Parks by Sue Sternberg.
_______________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and Dog Works Training Centers. Dr. Forto hosts a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show every Saturday at http://tinyurl.com/dogdoc Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Showing posts with label forto. Show all posts
Showing posts with label forto. Show all posts
Friday, February 19, 2010
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Mushing Legends: Scotty Allen
Mushing Legends: Scotty Allan
By Robert Forto, PhD
Scotty Allan journeyed to Alaska, attracted by news of the gold strike in the Klondike. Around him were men of action from many different countries, dependent on in a large measure upon animals. It was not long before Allan had a wife, a baby and a dog team, and with his uncanny knack with animals, was well on his way to being a first class dog-puncher. His first leader was named Dubby, a Mackenzie River Husky from the stock of the Hudson’s Bay Company. Dubby led the team the day his venturesome owner decided to sledge across the Bering Strait to Russia. While in Russia, Allan visited some Siberian Eskimos and then headed back to Nome, impressed with the self-sufficiency of those people.
Scotty Allan joined with Judge Albert Fink and other Nome citizens to organize the All-Alaska Sweepstakes, the first official series of sled dog races anywhere. From these races emerged a new kind of hero in the far North, the racing sled dog driver. In preparation for these 408-mile non-stop races, Allan put his team and himself into training. He watched everybody’s diet, gave up smoking and even practiced going without sleep. He must have done something right, for the first eight years of the Sweepstakes, Scotty Allan never finished lower than third and had three firsts and three seconds to his credit. His team consisted of lop-eared freighting dogs, mongrels, and he was proud of their ability on the racing trails.
In more than one race, however, Allan could look back over his shoulder and see John “Iron Man” Johnson’s long string of Siberians slowly gaining on him. Johnson led a team of culls from Fox Ramsay’s other two imported Siberian Husky teams to a record setting win for him in 1910. The handwriting was on the wall for the mixed-breed freighting teams. Johnson’s Siberians beat Allan’s team by nine hours in 1914, and then Leonhard Seppala and his Siberians wrapped it all up in the final three years of the Sweepstakes.
______________________
Dr. Robert Forto is a professional musher training for his first Iditarod racing under the name Team Ineka. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.teamineka.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
Scotty Allan journeyed to Alaska, attracted by news of the gold strike in the Klondike. Around him were men of action from many different countries, dependent on in a large measure upon animals. It was not long before Allan had a wife, a baby and a dog team, and with his uncanny knack with animals, was well on his way to being a first class dog-puncher. His first leader was named Dubby, a Mackenzie River Husky from the stock of the Hudson’s Bay Company. Dubby led the team the day his venturesome owner decided to sledge across the Bering Strait to Russia. While in Russia, Allan visited some Siberian Eskimos and then headed back to Nome, impressed with the self-sufficiency of those people.
Scotty Allan joined with Judge Albert Fink and other Nome citizens to organize the All-Alaska Sweepstakes, the first official series of sled dog races anywhere. From these races emerged a new kind of hero in the far North, the racing sled dog driver. In preparation for these 408-mile non-stop races, Allan put his team and himself into training. He watched everybody’s diet, gave up smoking and even practiced going without sleep. He must have done something right, for the first eight years of the Sweepstakes, Scotty Allan never finished lower than third and had three firsts and three seconds to his credit. His team consisted of lop-eared freighting dogs, mongrels, and he was proud of their ability on the racing trails.
In more than one race, however, Allan could look back over his shoulder and see John “Iron Man” Johnson’s long string of Siberians slowly gaining on him. Johnson led a team of culls from Fox Ramsay’s other two imported Siberian Husky teams to a record setting win for him in 1910. The handwriting was on the wall for the mixed-breed freighting teams. Johnson’s Siberians beat Allan’s team by nine hours in 1914, and then Leonhard Seppala and his Siberians wrapped it all up in the final three years of the Sweepstakes.
______________________
Dr. Robert Forto is a professional musher training for his first Iditarod racing under the name Team Ineka. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.teamineka.com
Monday, February 8, 2010
Culture of Denver Dog Works: Service Availability and Belief
Culture of Denver Dog Works: Service Availability and Belief
By Robert Forto, PhD
This is the fourth installment in a series on the Culture of Denver Dog Works. I am only only doing this to give our readers an idea of what we are about at Denver Dog Works but also as an exercise for us here at the training center to make sure we are all on the same page and delivering exceptional customer service and training a client's dog to be one of the best trained dogs in the world.
The 10 Elements of Culture as defined by Denver Dog Works are:
Integrity
Professionalism
Development
Service Availability and Belief
Character
Self Development
A Event Culture
Structured Activity
Leadership
Fun
Service Availability and Belief at Denver Dog Works and our Culture:
Along with a strong belief in your own inner voice, you also need laser-like focus combined with unwavering determination. -- Larry Flynt
Yes, I know who Larry Flynt is. That is not up for debate. What I interpret from his quote is that in business you have to belief in yourself in business and if you second guess you will not accomplish your goals.
A lot can be said about the way one business approaches it’s day to day operation over another but you know what? That is what separates the businesses that will succeed and those that will fail.
Service Availability
At Denver Dog Works we designed our business on 40 years of collaborated dog training experience. We pride ourselves on our ability to build you a customized training package with the ability to adjust the program as needed if necessary. Learn how to train your dog with Denver Dog Works and experience the best pet relationship you could ever imagine. At Denver Dog Works you won't feel like your walking through a revolving door. You will feel like your taking your dog to the gym! Our trainers will keep you motivated and wanting to come back. Training is for life! For you and your dog.
Core Beliefs
At Denver Dog Works we truly are a mom and pop business. My wife, Michele, and I work every day to make our business a success and something that we can be proud of. We include our family in our business and if you have stopped in on a Saturday you will see our 12-year old daughter Nicole working right along with us. This is important to us and is what we believe in.
I say that at Denver Dog Works we don’t just train dogs, we change lives. In our work with our service dog training program and our constant reminder of the need for a quick and educated response to canine aggression, we strive to make that our business model. As we have covered in previous articles about our culture; our core beliefs are important to us and they should be important to you.
1.) Integrity: At Denver Dog Works we strive to provide each client with the most up to date thorough training available. We design your training program to fit your needs.
2.) Professionalism: At Denver Dog Works we believe that each client is an individual with individual needs for their dog and their lifestyle. There is no cookie cutter packaging available at Denver Dog Works. Our professional staff takes the time to listen to your goals and concerns during our initial evaluation.
3.) Education: At Denver Dog Works all trainers are certified in canine behavior. All staff members are certified in canine CPR and first aid. We have the best and train the rest! We pride ourselves on continuing our educations and experiences by learning new methods as well as updating old methods. We can teach you how to train your dog for any goal. We specialize in sport training and understand the various methods and tools utilized in sport training.
4.) Quality: At Denver Dog Works we believe in the quality of our training rather than the quantity. There are times when an hour long session isn't going to be enough. In those cases we schedule longer class times to adjust the needs of our clients. We also will address minor behavior issues if they arise in our private lessons and our camp works programs. If it is determined that a larger behavior problem exists we refer you to our canine behaviorist.
Denver Dog Works cares about you and your dog. Our attention to service and customer care gives us the opportunity to expand our availability to you.
I encourage any feedback you may have and of course share the culture of your business as well. I can be reached anytime by email at train@denverdogworks.com
Next Week: Character
__________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Dog Works Training Centers and the host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show which can be heard every Saturday at 9:30 am in the Rocky Mountain West or download it anytime. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
This is the fourth installment in a series on the Culture of Denver Dog Works. I am only only doing this to give our readers an idea of what we are about at Denver Dog Works but also as an exercise for us here at the training center to make sure we are all on the same page and delivering exceptional customer service and training a client's dog to be one of the best trained dogs in the world.
The 10 Elements of Culture as defined by Denver Dog Works are:
Integrity
Professionalism
Development
Service Availability and Belief
Character
Self Development
A Event Culture
Structured Activity
Leadership
Fun
Service Availability and Belief at Denver Dog Works and our Culture:
Along with a strong belief in your own inner voice, you also need laser-like focus combined with unwavering determination. -- Larry Flynt
Yes, I know who Larry Flynt is. That is not up for debate. What I interpret from his quote is that in business you have to belief in yourself in business and if you second guess you will not accomplish your goals.
A lot can be said about the way one business approaches it’s day to day operation over another but you know what? That is what separates the businesses that will succeed and those that will fail.
Service Availability
At Denver Dog Works we designed our business on 40 years of collaborated dog training experience. We pride ourselves on our ability to build you a customized training package with the ability to adjust the program as needed if necessary. Learn how to train your dog with Denver Dog Works and experience the best pet relationship you could ever imagine. At Denver Dog Works you won't feel like your walking through a revolving door. You will feel like your taking your dog to the gym! Our trainers will keep you motivated and wanting to come back. Training is for life! For you and your dog.
Core Beliefs
At Denver Dog Works we truly are a mom and pop business. My wife, Michele, and I work every day to make our business a success and something that we can be proud of. We include our family in our business and if you have stopped in on a Saturday you will see our 12-year old daughter Nicole working right along with us. This is important to us and is what we believe in.
I say that at Denver Dog Works we don’t just train dogs, we change lives. In our work with our service dog training program and our constant reminder of the need for a quick and educated response to canine aggression, we strive to make that our business model. As we have covered in previous articles about our culture; our core beliefs are important to us and they should be important to you.
1.) Integrity: At Denver Dog Works we strive to provide each client with the most up to date thorough training available. We design your training program to fit your needs.
2.) Professionalism: At Denver Dog Works we believe that each client is an individual with individual needs for their dog and their lifestyle. There is no cookie cutter packaging available at Denver Dog Works. Our professional staff takes the time to listen to your goals and concerns during our initial evaluation.
3.) Education: At Denver Dog Works all trainers are certified in canine behavior. All staff members are certified in canine CPR and first aid. We have the best and train the rest! We pride ourselves on continuing our educations and experiences by learning new methods as well as updating old methods. We can teach you how to train your dog for any goal. We specialize in sport training and understand the various methods and tools utilized in sport training.
4.) Quality: At Denver Dog Works we believe in the quality of our training rather than the quantity. There are times when an hour long session isn't going to be enough. In those cases we schedule longer class times to adjust the needs of our clients. We also will address minor behavior issues if they arise in our private lessons and our camp works programs. If it is determined that a larger behavior problem exists we refer you to our canine behaviorist.
Denver Dog Works cares about you and your dog. Our attention to service and customer care gives us the opportunity to expand our availability to you.
I encourage any feedback you may have and of course share the culture of your business as well. I can be reached anytime by email at train@denverdogworks.com
Next Week: Character
__________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Dog Works Training Centers and the host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show which can be heard every Saturday at 9:30 am in the Rocky Mountain West or download it anytime. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Who Are You? Canine Trainer, Leah Morse
Who Are You, Anyway?
Contract Trainer, Leah Morse
By Robert Forto, PhD
We are members of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, and they have one of the best dog training journals around, especially for us in the canine training industry, The APDT Chronicle of the Dog. Each month in their highly acclaimed magazine, they have a member profile edited by Nicole Wilde. While we haven't been privy to be showcased in this column yet, I thought it would be appropriate to showcase each one of our trainers over the next few weeks so that you can get to know us and what we are about.
This week I will be interviewing Leah Morse. Leah is a graduate of our canine obedience instructor course and offers contract training at Denver Dog Works.
Let’s get to know Leah Morse, certified canine trainer:
Business Name: Denver Dog Works
Location: Denver, Colorado
Phone: 303-578-9881
Email: mforto@denverdogworks.com
Website: www.denverdogworks.com
Years in Business: 2 years
Personal Training Philosophy: Training a dog should have an equal priority level to proper nutrition and health care for a dog. Use as many techniques as possible to get a dog to think for himself and to choose to do the right thing happily. Dogs need an owner that provides adequate leadership, a safe and happy environment, structure and training.
How long have you been in business and what types of services do you provide?
I have been educating people how to raise and train their dogs for my entire adult life but professionally for 2 years. I have 20 years of retail pet experience, 10 years of vet assisting experience and have been raising and training dogs for over 30 years. I encourage touch free training but am prepared to incorporate all types of training. I offer private and group classes, in home private lessons and semi private lessons, puppy socialization “kindergarten” classes, basic obedience and some advanced obedience classes, behavior therapy. trick training, CGC (Canine Good Citizenship) prep.
How did you get started?
A phone call to Denver Dog Works, researching training facilities for a friend, and was informed by Michelle Forto of Denver Dog Works School for dog trainers. Next an interview with Dr. Forto and then I was well on my way to becoming a professional dog trainer and certified.
Are you involved in and dog sports or activities?
Would love to learn about tracking and herding but currently I am investing time in a competition obedience dog and an up and coming conformation show prospect.
How do you get business, and what is your relationship like with veterinarians in your community?
I have a very good relationship with my local veterinary practice in Bennett CO. I give the vet technicians free lessons to test drive the trainer and they refer clients to me. I have donated obedience private lesson packages to the local recreation center’s private auction. I also have acquired clients from Facebook, advertising in the employee lounge at my other employment, current word of mouth and soon to be a website.
Do you belong to a trainer networking group, or otherwise consult with/refer to other trainers in your area?
I work with Dr. Robert and Michelle Forto of Denver Dog Works and Sandy Chiavelli with Prairie Dog Acres in Strasburg. I have applied for membership with Colorado Dog Trainers Network. I am a member of APDT, a certified CGC evaluator, a member of MSDTC and am currently registered with TeachStreet.com and am in the process of connecting with some local Doggy Day Care Providers.
What do you believe are the three most important things to teach a dog?
That the owner is a confident Leader that provides a safe and structured environment and is worthy of respect.
That training is a fun game to play daily
That it is a pleasure to work for their people
What types of cases do you find the most challenging and why?
The most challenging cases are the owners that come for some or even all of the classes but don’t practice at home with their dogs. You see the dogs that are being regularly practiced with and the ones that aren’t and how much the practiced dogs progress compared to not. The frustration that then ensues between owner and dog (the unpracticed pair) could have been avoided by even a few quick sessions daily. There is such potential that is not being realized by the owner such as better relationship, a calmer dog, better owner/dog communication and the satisfaction of accomplishment. Basically as they say “You can lead a horse to water but you can’t make him drink.
What teaching techniques or philosophies have you found helpful in dealing with your challenging cases?
Pay attention to the emotional status of the owner and the behavior/mood of the dog and try to add encouragement or stress release techniques if necessary. As tactfully as possible, point out what is observed and, quite often, the owner is harboring left over negative feelings from home or work or frustration at the dog.
Work the dog for the owner if the owner is really having a hard time.
What advice would you give to other trainers about working with dogs and their owners?
Allow new dogs to sniff around and get comfortable with the training environment prior to the session.
Pay attention to the demeanor of the owner and watch for calming signals given by the dog.
If the dog allows the trainer, demonstrate the techniques to the owner with the owner’s dog, as this shows that it can be done.
Can you offer a specific tip or trick for working with dogs or owners that other trainers might find helpful?
It is great that we all love dogs but you have to develop a love for people too. Loving/appreciating people, helps you to be tolerant and be more in tune to what a client actually needs. People know when you are frustrated with them or if you are disinterested. Common sense for you may not be for others, it just means that you heard it or learned it more than they did. Don’t judge an owner on their inadequacies but help them through them. You help the dog more in the end of if you connect with their people.
What was your scariest moment with a dog (or client)?
Watching a young handler get attacked by an aggressive dog he was working with. Fortunately it ended alright.
What would you say are the top three things you have personally learned as a trainer?
Patience, Patience, Patience,
Be flexible to a point
Be Personable
What was the last training related seminar you attended?
I am still progressing through a correspondence course as I am working towards another certification.
Are there any specific books, authors, DVDs that have influenced you as a trainer?
Many of the Leerburg training DVDs.
Don’t Shoot the Dog by Karen Pryor.
Calming Signals by Turid Rugaas
Caesars Way
Tender Foot Training DVD
Monks of New Skeet
It’s Me or the Dog Cable Show
Anything else you would like to add?
It is my goal to help as many dogs stay home and out of the shelters and to help prevent as much as possible, future dog bites and behavior problems through prevention training, starting with young puppies by educating their owners.
I would like to see more professional dog trainers start to work together instead of against each other.
______________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and the host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show which can be heard every Saturday at 9:30 am in the Rocky Mountain West or downloaded anytime. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Contract Trainer, Leah Morse
By Robert Forto, PhD
We are members of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, and they have one of the best dog training journals around, especially for us in the canine training industry, The APDT Chronicle of the Dog. Each month in their highly acclaimed magazine, they have a member profile edited by Nicole Wilde. While we haven't been privy to be showcased in this column yet, I thought it would be appropriate to showcase each one of our trainers over the next few weeks so that you can get to know us and what we are about.
This week I will be interviewing Leah Morse. Leah is a graduate of our canine obedience instructor course and offers contract training at Denver Dog Works.
Let’s get to know Leah Morse, certified canine trainer:
Business Name: Denver Dog Works
Location: Denver, Colorado
Phone: 303-578-9881
Email: mforto@denverdogworks.com
Website: www.denverdogworks.com
Years in Business: 2 years
Personal Training Philosophy: Training a dog should have an equal priority level to proper nutrition and health care for a dog. Use as many techniques as possible to get a dog to think for himself and to choose to do the right thing happily. Dogs need an owner that provides adequate leadership, a safe and happy environment, structure and training.
How long have you been in business and what types of services do you provide?
I have been educating people how to raise and train their dogs for my entire adult life but professionally for 2 years. I have 20 years of retail pet experience, 10 years of vet assisting experience and have been raising and training dogs for over 30 years. I encourage touch free training but am prepared to incorporate all types of training. I offer private and group classes, in home private lessons and semi private lessons, puppy socialization “kindergarten” classes, basic obedience and some advanced obedience classes, behavior therapy. trick training, CGC (Canine Good Citizenship) prep.
How did you get started?
A phone call to Denver Dog Works, researching training facilities for a friend, and was informed by Michelle Forto of Denver Dog Works School for dog trainers. Next an interview with Dr. Forto and then I was well on my way to becoming a professional dog trainer and certified.
Are you involved in and dog sports or activities?
Would love to learn about tracking and herding but currently I am investing time in a competition obedience dog and an up and coming conformation show prospect.
How do you get business, and what is your relationship like with veterinarians in your community?
I have a very good relationship with my local veterinary practice in Bennett CO. I give the vet technicians free lessons to test drive the trainer and they refer clients to me. I have donated obedience private lesson packages to the local recreation center’s private auction. I also have acquired clients from Facebook, advertising in the employee lounge at my other employment, current word of mouth and soon to be a website.
Do you belong to a trainer networking group, or otherwise consult with/refer to other trainers in your area?
I work with Dr. Robert and Michelle Forto of Denver Dog Works and Sandy Chiavelli with Prairie Dog Acres in Strasburg. I have applied for membership with Colorado Dog Trainers Network. I am a member of APDT, a certified CGC evaluator, a member of MSDTC and am currently registered with TeachStreet.com and am in the process of connecting with some local Doggy Day Care Providers.
What do you believe are the three most important things to teach a dog?
That the owner is a confident Leader that provides a safe and structured environment and is worthy of respect.
That training is a fun game to play daily
That it is a pleasure to work for their people
What types of cases do you find the most challenging and why?
The most challenging cases are the owners that come for some or even all of the classes but don’t practice at home with their dogs. You see the dogs that are being regularly practiced with and the ones that aren’t and how much the practiced dogs progress compared to not. The frustration that then ensues between owner and dog (the unpracticed pair) could have been avoided by even a few quick sessions daily. There is such potential that is not being realized by the owner such as better relationship, a calmer dog, better owner/dog communication and the satisfaction of accomplishment. Basically as they say “You can lead a horse to water but you can’t make him drink.
What teaching techniques or philosophies have you found helpful in dealing with your challenging cases?
Pay attention to the emotional status of the owner and the behavior/mood of the dog and try to add encouragement or stress release techniques if necessary. As tactfully as possible, point out what is observed and, quite often, the owner is harboring left over negative feelings from home or work or frustration at the dog.
Work the dog for the owner if the owner is really having a hard time.
What advice would you give to other trainers about working with dogs and their owners?
Allow new dogs to sniff around and get comfortable with the training environment prior to the session.
Pay attention to the demeanor of the owner and watch for calming signals given by the dog.
If the dog allows the trainer, demonstrate the techniques to the owner with the owner’s dog, as this shows that it can be done.
Can you offer a specific tip or trick for working with dogs or owners that other trainers might find helpful?
It is great that we all love dogs but you have to develop a love for people too. Loving/appreciating people, helps you to be tolerant and be more in tune to what a client actually needs. People know when you are frustrated with them or if you are disinterested. Common sense for you may not be for others, it just means that you heard it or learned it more than they did. Don’t judge an owner on their inadequacies but help them through them. You help the dog more in the end of if you connect with their people.
What was your scariest moment with a dog (or client)?
Watching a young handler get attacked by an aggressive dog he was working with. Fortunately it ended alright.
What would you say are the top three things you have personally learned as a trainer?
Patience, Patience, Patience,
Be flexible to a point
Be Personable
What was the last training related seminar you attended?
I am still progressing through a correspondence course as I am working towards another certification.
Are there any specific books, authors, DVDs that have influenced you as a trainer?
Many of the Leerburg training DVDs.
Don’t Shoot the Dog by Karen Pryor.
Calming Signals by Turid Rugaas
Caesars Way
Tender Foot Training DVD
Monks of New Skeet
It’s Me or the Dog Cable Show
Anything else you would like to add?
It is my goal to help as many dogs stay home and out of the shelters and to help prevent as much as possible, future dog bites and behavior problems through prevention training, starting with young puppies by educating their owners.
I would like to see more professional dog trainers start to work together instead of against each other.
______________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and the host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show which can be heard every Saturday at 9:30 am in the Rocky Mountain West or downloaded anytime. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Saturday, January 23, 2010
New Successes, Creative Ideas and Our Culture
New Successes, Creative Ideas, and our Culture
By Robert Forto, PhD
This is a new day of a new week of a new month of a new decade in a new century. It is special isn't it? Last year was a tough year for all of us in this recessed economy where everybody was worried about the future of the world as we knew it. At Denver Dog Works, it was tough on us too. We are thankful for all of our clients, new and old, that helped make our business special. We also took advantage of the down time to receive training for our business, our leaders, our trainers and our staff. This training was expensive, but worth every penny. We learned so many new things about our business, our goals, our values, and our desires. We learned what we need to do to set us apart from the crowd. We learned that we are not just a small fish in a big pond, but a fish that has a considerable influence over the pond that we swim.
In January 2009, we started our Internet radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, that has gotten great reviews and has had on some tremendous guests. We spoke about everything dogs and everything that we love about our furry friends and what makes that relationship special to so many people. We spoke about the Michael Vick controversy, many authors including the most heart-warming story I have every heart about Baxter, the therapy dog that touched so many lives until he last days, and so much more.
We trained several students to become exceptional canine obedience trainers in 2009 and have done so against the wishes of our most vocal competition in our industry. I can not count how many times I have heard from my peers that own dog training schools here in Denver say, “Why are you teaching people how to become dog trainers? Don't you think the business is saturated?” My response is, “It do it because I can, and no, I don't think it is saturated.” We change people’s lives at Denver Dog Works. Whether it be by training people for a new career or providing a service dog for a young child in need. That’s what we do.
In March 2009, I announced my intentions on running the Iditarod in 2013. This is a promise I must keep. My family and I thought about this for a long while and realized that the time is now to begin training for the last great race, as they call it. I am taking this year to get into shape and next year I will run my first qualifying races in Minnesota and Oregon. The monumental feat of running the race is not the race itself but the raising of ten’s of thousands of dollars to train and run the race. We are starting our quest to find corporate sponsors during the second quarter of 2010.
We met many new friends in 2009 that taught us so much. The members of the Aurora and Greenwood Village Chamber of Commerce (Colorado) have been great and I want to personally thank Mark Crowley for all that he does. When I attended a seminar put on by Mark and the Greenwood Village Chamber in late 2008 it changed how we do business forever. It introduced me to social media and what an impact it has had! As many of you know I routinely update twitter and Facebook with news, notes, nuggets of information, and stories that have absolutely nothing to do about dogs, but do you know what? Social media works! I have received so many business leads, new contacts and friends, often while I update driving down the highway at 70 miles per hour going from class to class.
In May 2009, I attended a training program in Neuro-Linguistics from my good friend and “personal trainer for the mind”, Traci Brown. This revolutionary training taught me to think outside the box and harness the potential of my unconscious mind. While many may think this is some New-Age quackery I will be the first to tell you that you are furthest from the truth. This innate communication will change your life!
In July, we moved to our new location and we regret that we haven't had the time to have a grand opening celebration yet. Our new place is only about 70% remodeled due to the fact that through blood, sweat and tears we are doing the re-model ourselves and it is typically only on our days off. In the coming months we will have a grand opening and a ribbon cutting and we will have that bar-b-que that we have been talking about.
In 2010 we are stepping outside the box completely and offering Dog Works Training Centers in select cities throughout the country. While there are many dog training franchises out there, ours is different. We teach new business owners how not only to be great dog trainers but effective and successful business owners as well. Our Dog Works Training Centers business opportunity will change the dog training industry forever.
The 10 Elements of Culture as defined by Denver Dog Works
Much can be said about what makes us the best dog training school in the country. A lot of that lies on our core values and principles of doing business. A lot lies in the education and training we received over the years, moreover, this past year with our branding program that we took with the branding guru of all guru’s David Sandusky and his company, Your Brand Plan. Our work with David changed how we thought about our business and saved our marriage ( as you know, I work with my wife, Michele), but more importantly our work with David allowed us to develop a culture at Denver Dog Works. Over the coming weeks, every Monday, I will post an article about our culture and what sets us apart in a very competitive industry.
The 10 Elements of Culture as defined by Denver Dog Works are:
Integrity
Professionalism
Development
Service Availability and Belief
Character
Self Development
A Event Culture
Structured Activity
Leadership
Fun
I ask that you follow us along in the coming year. As one fast food restaurant chain’s tagline says: We’re going to be big. At Denver Dog Works, we don't just train dogs, we changes lives and I can bet you that we do have the best and train the rest!
I encourage any comments or questions you have about anything at all.
Next Week: Element of Our Culture: Integrity
Posted http://www.robertforto.com
________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Dog Works Training Centers and the host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, that can be heard every Saturday at 9:30 am in the Rocky Mountain West or anytime by download. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
This is a new day of a new week of a new month of a new decade in a new century. It is special isn't it? Last year was a tough year for all of us in this recessed economy where everybody was worried about the future of the world as we knew it. At Denver Dog Works, it was tough on us too. We are thankful for all of our clients, new and old, that helped make our business special. We also took advantage of the down time to receive training for our business, our leaders, our trainers and our staff. This training was expensive, but worth every penny. We learned so many new things about our business, our goals, our values, and our desires. We learned what we need to do to set us apart from the crowd. We learned that we are not just a small fish in a big pond, but a fish that has a considerable influence over the pond that we swim.
In January 2009, we started our Internet radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, that has gotten great reviews and has had on some tremendous guests. We spoke about everything dogs and everything that we love about our furry friends and what makes that relationship special to so many people. We spoke about the Michael Vick controversy, many authors including the most heart-warming story I have every heart about Baxter, the therapy dog that touched so many lives until he last days, and so much more.
We trained several students to become exceptional canine obedience trainers in 2009 and have done so against the wishes of our most vocal competition in our industry. I can not count how many times I have heard from my peers that own dog training schools here in Denver say, “Why are you teaching people how to become dog trainers? Don't you think the business is saturated?” My response is, “It do it because I can, and no, I don't think it is saturated.” We change people’s lives at Denver Dog Works. Whether it be by training people for a new career or providing a service dog for a young child in need. That’s what we do.
In March 2009, I announced my intentions on running the Iditarod in 2013. This is a promise I must keep. My family and I thought about this for a long while and realized that the time is now to begin training for the last great race, as they call it. I am taking this year to get into shape and next year I will run my first qualifying races in Minnesota and Oregon. The monumental feat of running the race is not the race itself but the raising of ten’s of thousands of dollars to train and run the race. We are starting our quest to find corporate sponsors during the second quarter of 2010.
We met many new friends in 2009 that taught us so much. The members of the Aurora and Greenwood Village Chamber of Commerce (Colorado) have been great and I want to personally thank Mark Crowley for all that he does. When I attended a seminar put on by Mark and the Greenwood Village Chamber in late 2008 it changed how we do business forever. It introduced me to social media and what an impact it has had! As many of you know I routinely update twitter and Facebook with news, notes, nuggets of information, and stories that have absolutely nothing to do about dogs, but do you know what? Social media works! I have received so many business leads, new contacts and friends, often while I update driving down the highway at 70 miles per hour going from class to class.
In May 2009, I attended a training program in Neuro-Linguistics from my good friend and “personal trainer for the mind”, Traci Brown. This revolutionary training taught me to think outside the box and harness the potential of my unconscious mind. While many may think this is some New-Age quackery I will be the first to tell you that you are furthest from the truth. This innate communication will change your life!
In July, we moved to our new location and we regret that we haven't had the time to have a grand opening celebration yet. Our new place is only about 70% remodeled due to the fact that through blood, sweat and tears we are doing the re-model ourselves and it is typically only on our days off. In the coming months we will have a grand opening and a ribbon cutting and we will have that bar-b-que that we have been talking about.
In 2010 we are stepping outside the box completely and offering Dog Works Training Centers in select cities throughout the country. While there are many dog training franchises out there, ours is different. We teach new business owners how not only to be great dog trainers but effective and successful business owners as well. Our Dog Works Training Centers business opportunity will change the dog training industry forever.
The 10 Elements of Culture as defined by Denver Dog Works
Much can be said about what makes us the best dog training school in the country. A lot of that lies on our core values and principles of doing business. A lot lies in the education and training we received over the years, moreover, this past year with our branding program that we took with the branding guru of all guru’s David Sandusky and his company, Your Brand Plan. Our work with David changed how we thought about our business and saved our marriage ( as you know, I work with my wife, Michele), but more importantly our work with David allowed us to develop a culture at Denver Dog Works. Over the coming weeks, every Monday, I will post an article about our culture and what sets us apart in a very competitive industry.
The 10 Elements of Culture as defined by Denver Dog Works are:
Integrity
Professionalism
Development
Service Availability and Belief
Character
Self Development
A Event Culture
Structured Activity
Leadership
Fun
I ask that you follow us along in the coming year. As one fast food restaurant chain’s tagline says: We’re going to be big. At Denver Dog Works, we don't just train dogs, we changes lives and I can bet you that we do have the best and train the rest!
I encourage any comments or questions you have about anything at all.
Next Week: Element of Our Culture: Integrity
Posted http://www.robertforto.com
________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Dog Works Training Centers and the host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, that can be heard every Saturday at 9:30 am in the Rocky Mountain West or anytime by download. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Holiday Pet Safety
Holiday Pet Safety
By Robert Forto, PhD
My name is Dr. Robert Forto and I am the training director of Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project in Colorado. I am asked all the time about holiday do’s and don’ts from pet owners. While I always offer an article right around Christmas about training Christmas puppies I thought it would be wise to offer some tips to pet owners on holiday safety before the season’s festivities reaches a crescendo. While most of this is common sense, it is the little things that we overlook during this busy time of the year that can turn a joyous season into a nightmare for your pet if you do not take some steps to ensure their safety.
The holiday season can get pretty hectic, and with the decorations and extra goodies around the house, there is a lot your pet can find to get into. Here are a few safety tips to help keep your pets safe and happy during the festivities:
Christmas trees
Firmly secure the tree in its stand, and consider wire or twine ties attached to the wall to help secure the tree. You’ll want to make sure the tree doesn’t topple over if, or more likely when, kitty tries to climb the tree.
Dogs and cats will often try to drink water from the reservoir in the stand. The sap from the tree itself may irritate your pet's stomach, and preservatives added to the water may be toxic. Devise a cover to fit around the base of the tree—even a towel wrapped around the trunk covering the stand will do.
Research also shows that the chemicals used in producing artificial trees contain chemicals that can be harmful or even fatal if ingested by your pet. While there are many pro’s and con’s to having a natural versus an artificial Christmas tree, this fact alone should make the decision a little easier.
Ornamentation is very attractive, especially to kittens, cats and puppies, but may be deadly. The tinsel, ribbon and glitter can cause intestinal blockages. Protect your pet by placing these items high enough to be out of reach. Packages under the tree may offer the same threat—the ribbons are just too hard to resist, and your pet may end up chewing on them while playing.
Those wonderful goodies
Holidays are the time for lots of baking, and receiving of baked gifts. These items smell just wonderful to your pet. Your dog may help himself to the candy, cookies, or part of the holiday meal if you are not looking. Eating people food may lead to indigestion, diarrhea, or worse. Remember, items containing chocolate can poison a dog, even if it is a small amount.
Remains of the holiday meal left on countertops, tables, and even in the garbage will entice your pets. If there is a way to get to it, be assured your dog will certainly try. Bones from turkey, a roast, or ham may splinter if eaten. Older garbage may even contain enough bacteria to poison a pet. Be careful where the trash is held while waiting to be disposed of.
And of course I don’t need to remind you that begging at that table can cause major behavior problems in the future…
Other Decorations
Plants, especially poinsettias, are often used for decoration in November and December. Some of these plants contain toxins that can irritate your pet’s gastrointestinal tract if chewed on or eaten. Eating enough of some plants may poison your dog or cat. In some cases it may be the leaves, in others the stem, berries, or roots. Your veterinarian or behaviorist can help guide you, or you can do a bit of research at the library or online to see if any of your holiday plants may be harmful to your pets.
Toys
On Christmas morning when all of those toys are being played with (and soon forgotten, I might add) they contain many hazards for pets. Small toys, balls, marbles, board game pieces, BB’s from the Red Rider BB gun with the compass in the stock that your son just had to have!, and electric cords are all dangerous to your cat or dog.
Taking a few minutes to set some family guidelines and spot potential safety hazards could keep this holiday season from having serious consequences for your four-footed family member.
In the coming weeks Dr. Forto will be publishing and article on training Christmas puppies. His position is that you should never give a puppy for a Christmas present but thousands are given as gifts each year. In this article Dr. Forto will discuss when to train your dog, how to properly care for him and who should be in charge. Just remember that shelters are full of dogs that were once bundles of Christmas morning joy that grew up too fast and were not trained. Dr. Forto and his certified trainers at Denver Dog Works are here to help.
This article is provided as a general overview of the topic. Always consult your veterinarian or behaviorist for specific information related to diseases or medical care for pets.
________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is a canine behaviorist and the training director of Denver Dog Works in Colorado. He can be reached through his website at www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
My name is Dr. Robert Forto and I am the training director of Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project in Colorado. I am asked all the time about holiday do’s and don’ts from pet owners. While I always offer an article right around Christmas about training Christmas puppies I thought it would be wise to offer some tips to pet owners on holiday safety before the season’s festivities reaches a crescendo. While most of this is common sense, it is the little things that we overlook during this busy time of the year that can turn a joyous season into a nightmare for your pet if you do not take some steps to ensure their safety.
The holiday season can get pretty hectic, and with the decorations and extra goodies around the house, there is a lot your pet can find to get into. Here are a few safety tips to help keep your pets safe and happy during the festivities:
Christmas trees
Firmly secure the tree in its stand, and consider wire or twine ties attached to the wall to help secure the tree. You’ll want to make sure the tree doesn’t topple over if, or more likely when, kitty tries to climb the tree.
Dogs and cats will often try to drink water from the reservoir in the stand. The sap from the tree itself may irritate your pet's stomach, and preservatives added to the water may be toxic. Devise a cover to fit around the base of the tree—even a towel wrapped around the trunk covering the stand will do.
Research also shows that the chemicals used in producing artificial trees contain chemicals that can be harmful or even fatal if ingested by your pet. While there are many pro’s and con’s to having a natural versus an artificial Christmas tree, this fact alone should make the decision a little easier.
Ornamentation is very attractive, especially to kittens, cats and puppies, but may be deadly. The tinsel, ribbon and glitter can cause intestinal blockages. Protect your pet by placing these items high enough to be out of reach. Packages under the tree may offer the same threat—the ribbons are just too hard to resist, and your pet may end up chewing on them while playing.
Those wonderful goodies
Holidays are the time for lots of baking, and receiving of baked gifts. These items smell just wonderful to your pet. Your dog may help himself to the candy, cookies, or part of the holiday meal if you are not looking. Eating people food may lead to indigestion, diarrhea, or worse. Remember, items containing chocolate can poison a dog, even if it is a small amount.
Remains of the holiday meal left on countertops, tables, and even in the garbage will entice your pets. If there is a way to get to it, be assured your dog will certainly try. Bones from turkey, a roast, or ham may splinter if eaten. Older garbage may even contain enough bacteria to poison a pet. Be careful where the trash is held while waiting to be disposed of.
And of course I don’t need to remind you that begging at that table can cause major behavior problems in the future…
Other Decorations
Plants, especially poinsettias, are often used for decoration in November and December. Some of these plants contain toxins that can irritate your pet’s gastrointestinal tract if chewed on or eaten. Eating enough of some plants may poison your dog or cat. In some cases it may be the leaves, in others the stem, berries, or roots. Your veterinarian or behaviorist can help guide you, or you can do a bit of research at the library or online to see if any of your holiday plants may be harmful to your pets.
Toys
On Christmas morning when all of those toys are being played with (and soon forgotten, I might add) they contain many hazards for pets. Small toys, balls, marbles, board game pieces, BB’s from the Red Rider BB gun with the compass in the stock that your son just had to have!, and electric cords are all dangerous to your cat or dog.
Taking a few minutes to set some family guidelines and spot potential safety hazards could keep this holiday season from having serious consequences for your four-footed family member.
In the coming weeks Dr. Forto will be publishing and article on training Christmas puppies. His position is that you should never give a puppy for a Christmas present but thousands are given as gifts each year. In this article Dr. Forto will discuss when to train your dog, how to properly care for him and who should be in charge. Just remember that shelters are full of dogs that were once bundles of Christmas morning joy that grew up too fast and were not trained. Dr. Forto and his certified trainers at Denver Dog Works are here to help.
This article is provided as a general overview of the topic. Always consult your veterinarian or behaviorist for specific information related to diseases or medical care for pets.
________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is a canine behaviorist and the training director of Denver Dog Works in Colorado. He can be reached through his website at www.denverdogworks.com
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Competition between Dogs
Competition between Dogs
By Robert Forto, PhD
When animals live together in close social groups such as a sled dog kennel, they often compete for limited resources and dominance of the dog pack. These situations create the need for social communication systems. If the dogs in the kennel do not communicate with each other, the competition is unregulated and uncontrolled. If there is no control over the competition the dogs waste time in pointless fighting and the risk of injury is greater for those dogs competing for those resources. One of Robert Forto’s dogs, Muffassa, would constantly be getting into fights over the daily food ration. It came to the point where human intervention was required to save this dog’s life. Communication systems have been developed for regulating such a conflict. Techniques such as threat and submissive displays make fighting less frequent, less disruptive, and less severe. If fighting is a problem in a sled dog kennel, then it will be the musher’s number one priority to find a solution to this problem. If the dogs fight at home, then they will surely fight at a race, which can cause severe consequences to both the musher and the team.
When dogs live in large social groups, such as a sled dog kennel, they can present significant problems to their environment. To prevent such problems, groups develop a territory for themselves and organize their groups with a definite hierarchy. The groups are maintained by a variety of auditory, visual, and olfactory signals.
Establishing a Territory
Wolves in the wild look as if to establish a territory and define an area through urine marking and vocalization. Sled dogs appear do the same thing. As males mature they begin to mark their kennel areas and their places on the dog truck to define their space.
If the wolves detect other wolves intruding on their territory they will threaten or attack the intruder if necessary. Establishing and defending a territory helps wolves to spread themselves over a wider geographical area, thereby preventing over-hunting, which results in a reduction in the number of prey animals.
Competition between individuals in the same group is regulated through the use of threat and submissive displays. The most easily recognized social communication displays are those associated with threat and submission. With sled dogs, threat displays may involve alpha takedowns, growling or snapping, and urinating in the water bowls and other the more subordinate dog’s faces.
Establishing a Dominance Hierarchy
Establishing a territory in the wild puts some distance between groups, which in turn helps to regulate excessive competition and conflict over environmental resources. Establishing a dominance hierarchy within a sled dog kennel will put distance between the individual members in terms of social rank or status. Social harmony between animals living in groups depends on a fine balance between competition and cooperation. Excessive conflict and strife between members of a social group will gradually cause the group to dissolve. Communicating through highly ritualized threat and submissive displays allows competitive animals to interact and cooperate with one another in relative harmony.
Forto, R., Interview by James Myers 16 May 2005. Interview 1.
Forto, R., Interview by James Myers 16 May 2005. Interview 1.
______________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Dog Works Training Centers and is the host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, every Saturday. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
When animals live together in close social groups such as a sled dog kennel, they often compete for limited resources and dominance of the dog pack. These situations create the need for social communication systems. If the dogs in the kennel do not communicate with each other, the competition is unregulated and uncontrolled. If there is no control over the competition the dogs waste time in pointless fighting and the risk of injury is greater for those dogs competing for those resources. One of Robert Forto’s dogs, Muffassa, would constantly be getting into fights over the daily food ration. It came to the point where human intervention was required to save this dog’s life. Communication systems have been developed for regulating such a conflict. Techniques such as threat and submissive displays make fighting less frequent, less disruptive, and less severe. If fighting is a problem in a sled dog kennel, then it will be the musher’s number one priority to find a solution to this problem. If the dogs fight at home, then they will surely fight at a race, which can cause severe consequences to both the musher and the team.
When dogs live in large social groups, such as a sled dog kennel, they can present significant problems to their environment. To prevent such problems, groups develop a territory for themselves and organize their groups with a definite hierarchy. The groups are maintained by a variety of auditory, visual, and olfactory signals.
Establishing a Territory
Wolves in the wild look as if to establish a territory and define an area through urine marking and vocalization. Sled dogs appear do the same thing. As males mature they begin to mark their kennel areas and their places on the dog truck to define their space.
If the wolves detect other wolves intruding on their territory they will threaten or attack the intruder if necessary. Establishing and defending a territory helps wolves to spread themselves over a wider geographical area, thereby preventing over-hunting, which results in a reduction in the number of prey animals.
Competition between individuals in the same group is regulated through the use of threat and submissive displays. The most easily recognized social communication displays are those associated with threat and submission. With sled dogs, threat displays may involve alpha takedowns, growling or snapping, and urinating in the water bowls and other the more subordinate dog’s faces.
Establishing a Dominance Hierarchy
Establishing a territory in the wild puts some distance between groups, which in turn helps to regulate excessive competition and conflict over environmental resources. Establishing a dominance hierarchy within a sled dog kennel will put distance between the individual members in terms of social rank or status. Social harmony between animals living in groups depends on a fine balance between competition and cooperation. Excessive conflict and strife between members of a social group will gradually cause the group to dissolve. Communicating through highly ritualized threat and submissive displays allows competitive animals to interact and cooperate with one another in relative harmony.
Forto, R., Interview by James Myers 16 May 2005. Interview 1.
Forto, R., Interview by James Myers 16 May 2005. Interview 1.
______________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Dog Works Training Centers and is the host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, every Saturday. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Monday, December 7, 2009
Canine C.P.R.
Canine C.P.R.
By Robert Forto, PhD
My name is Dr. Robert Forto and I am the training director of Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project in Colorado. We specialize in canine sports and working dogs. Our training school is not like any other in the Denver area. We train your dog after he already has manners (well, we train for that too) and provide you and your dog “fun” and “challenging” avenues to build the human-canine bond. It is my opinion that every dog needs a job to do. Whether that job is competing in agility, working as a service dog, hiking in the mountains with you, just being a couch potato, or just fetching the morning paper, they need something to occupy their time. With that, dogs can get themselves into trouble, sometimes life-threatening, and you should know what to do in case of an emergency. Denver Dog Works is one of the only schools in Colorado that teaches a canine first aid and C.P.R. course. It not only teaches you how to respond in an emergency, but certifies you too!
In this article I am going to talk about canine cardio-pulmonary-resuscitation. Knowing this procedure could mean life or death for your best (furry) friend and I will attest I have used it several times on dogs over the years and it does work. I am sure that many of you have been certified from time to time in human C.P.R. at your local Red Cross chapter if you were a life-guard, a boy/girl scout, a babysitter, and myriad other jobs, but did you ever think that your dog may need this life saving procedure too? The steps in canine C.P.R. are very similar to the human counter-part but I do not advise you to expect that the techniques you learned when you were a scout will just magically come back to mind when your dog is in dire distress.
I urge all of you to read this article and sign up for our course in canine first aid and C.P.R. it could be the best decision you ever make for your dog. For more information on upcoming classes check us out at www.denverdogworks.com or give us a call at 303-522-1727 anytime.
As I said before, providing C.P.R. to a pet is very much like giving C.P.R. to a human. The same steps are followed:
A. Airway
Is there an open airway from the mouth to the lungs? Can you feel any breath passing in/out of the nose or mouth? Check the mouth by opening the jaws and pulling the tongue forward, and look for any blockages or foreign objects. Remove any foreign objects and check again for breath. If the airway is still blocked, and the pet’s mucous membranes (gums) are blue, then you may need to perform a Heimlich-like action to loosen any object that may be farther back in the throat.
B. Is the animal breathing on its own?
If no objects, food or mucus are obstructing the airway, you may begin artificial respiration. Lay the animal on its side, and gently tilt the head back. Pull the tongue forward. Close your hands around the muzzle to form as airtight a seal as possible, and place your mouth over the nostrils of the pet’s nose. Blow 4-5 breaths rapidly, then check to see if the pet begins to breathe on its own. Smaller pets will need more breaths per minute (20-30) than a large dog that requires only 15-20 breaths per minute.
C. Circulation
Can you feel a heartbeat or pulse? An animal that is alert and responsive, even if it can't get up, will not require compressions. If there is no heartbeat, then you may begin chest compressions. Lay the pet on its right side, find the point of the pet’s elbow and place it against the ribs. This is where your hands need to go. Compress the chest 1/2 to 1 inch (slightly more for a giant breed or really large dog), and provide a breath every 5-6 compressions (have a second person do the breathing if available). Check for a pulse. Repeat the process if no pulse or heartbeat is detected. Transport the pet to a veterinary hospital as soon as possible; if after twenty minutes your efforts are not producing results, then you have done your best under difficult circumstances.
This article is provided as a general overview of the topic and not meant to be used as instructions at the time of an emergency for your dog. If you would like more information on our canine first aid and C.P.R. classes please give us a call. Always consult your veterinarian for specific information related to diseases or medical care for pets.
_______________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Dog Works Training Centers. Dr. Forto hosts a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, every Saturday at 9:30 am MDT. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
My name is Dr. Robert Forto and I am the training director of Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project in Colorado. We specialize in canine sports and working dogs. Our training school is not like any other in the Denver area. We train your dog after he already has manners (well, we train for that too) and provide you and your dog “fun” and “challenging” avenues to build the human-canine bond. It is my opinion that every dog needs a job to do. Whether that job is competing in agility, working as a service dog, hiking in the mountains with you, just being a couch potato, or just fetching the morning paper, they need something to occupy their time. With that, dogs can get themselves into trouble, sometimes life-threatening, and you should know what to do in case of an emergency. Denver Dog Works is one of the only schools in Colorado that teaches a canine first aid and C.P.R. course. It not only teaches you how to respond in an emergency, but certifies you too!
In this article I am going to talk about canine cardio-pulmonary-resuscitation. Knowing this procedure could mean life or death for your best (furry) friend and I will attest I have used it several times on dogs over the years and it does work. I am sure that many of you have been certified from time to time in human C.P.R. at your local Red Cross chapter if you were a life-guard, a boy/girl scout, a babysitter, and myriad other jobs, but did you ever think that your dog may need this life saving procedure too? The steps in canine C.P.R. are very similar to the human counter-part but I do not advise you to expect that the techniques you learned when you were a scout will just magically come back to mind when your dog is in dire distress.
I urge all of you to read this article and sign up for our course in canine first aid and C.P.R. it could be the best decision you ever make for your dog. For more information on upcoming classes check us out at www.denverdogworks.com or give us a call at 303-522-1727 anytime.
As I said before, providing C.P.R. to a pet is very much like giving C.P.R. to a human. The same steps are followed:
A. Airway
Is there an open airway from the mouth to the lungs? Can you feel any breath passing in/out of the nose or mouth? Check the mouth by opening the jaws and pulling the tongue forward, and look for any blockages or foreign objects. Remove any foreign objects and check again for breath. If the airway is still blocked, and the pet’s mucous membranes (gums) are blue, then you may need to perform a Heimlich-like action to loosen any object that may be farther back in the throat.
B. Is the animal breathing on its own?
If no objects, food or mucus are obstructing the airway, you may begin artificial respiration. Lay the animal on its side, and gently tilt the head back. Pull the tongue forward. Close your hands around the muzzle to form as airtight a seal as possible, and place your mouth over the nostrils of the pet’s nose. Blow 4-5 breaths rapidly, then check to see if the pet begins to breathe on its own. Smaller pets will need more breaths per minute (20-30) than a large dog that requires only 15-20 breaths per minute.
C. Circulation
Can you feel a heartbeat or pulse? An animal that is alert and responsive, even if it can't get up, will not require compressions. If there is no heartbeat, then you may begin chest compressions. Lay the pet on its right side, find the point of the pet’s elbow and place it against the ribs. This is where your hands need to go. Compress the chest 1/2 to 1 inch (slightly more for a giant breed or really large dog), and provide a breath every 5-6 compressions (have a second person do the breathing if available). Check for a pulse. Repeat the process if no pulse or heartbeat is detected. Transport the pet to a veterinary hospital as soon as possible; if after twenty minutes your efforts are not producing results, then you have done your best under difficult circumstances.
This article is provided as a general overview of the topic and not meant to be used as instructions at the time of an emergency for your dog. If you would like more information on our canine first aid and C.P.R. classes please give us a call. Always consult your veterinarian for specific information related to diseases or medical care for pets.
_______________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Dog Works Training Centers. Dr. Forto hosts a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, every Saturday at 9:30 am MDT. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Monday, November 30, 2009
Winterrize Your Dog
Have You Winterized Your Dog?
By Robert Forto, PhD
Cold weather brings its own safety and health concerns for both people and dogs. As a responsible dog owner, it is important to pay attention to your dog’s well-being during the winter. Remember the following precautions to help keep your pet comfortable, healthy and safe all season.
Provide Plenty of Fresh Water
Your dog is just as likely to get dehydrated in the winter as in the summer. Snow is not a satisfactory substitute for water.
Provide Plenty of Food
Feed your dog additional calories if it spends a lot of time outdoors or is a working animal. It takes more energy in the winter to keep the body temperature regulated, so additional; calories are necessary.
Keep Your Dog’s Paws Dry
Rinse your dog’s feet and dry them completely after a walk. This helps avoid tiny cuts and cracked pads. A little petroleum jelly or bag balm may soften the pads and prevent further cracking. Dog booties also work well.
Groom Your Dog Regularly
Your dog needs a well-groomed coat to keep properly insulated. Towel or blow-dry your dog if it gets wet from rain or snow.
Keep Your Dog Warm, Dry and Away From Drafts
Adequate shelter is a necessity. Tiles and uncarpeted areas may become extremely cold. Place blankets and pads on floors in these areas.
Watch Out for Winter Hazards
Cold: Do not leave your dog outside for long periods of time. Wind-chill makes days colder than actual temperature readings, and dogs are susceptible to frostbite on their ears, tails and feet.
Ice and Snow: Be extra careful when walking or playing with your dog outside. Your dog could slip or jump in a frozen lake, river or pond and get seriously injured. Snow can muffle scents and your dog can easily get lost.
Carbon Monoxide: Do not leave your dog alone in the car. It gets too cold, and carbon monoxide from an engine left running is dangerous.
Antifreeze: Although it smells and tastes good to your dog, antifreeze is highly poisonous and can be lethal.
Winter Sports
There are many winter sports that you and your dog can do together. Hiking, snowshoeing, skijoring, jogging, camping, cross-county skiing, mushing or dog sledding and more. Please make sure that you have your dog checked out by your veterinarian and it has a clean bill of health. It you plan to take part in any winter activity please train your dog accordingly and enjoy the snow! Denver Dog Works specializes in canine sports and we can help you and your dog achieve your goals together.
If you would like to schedule a no-cost evaluation to discuss winter sports with your dog please give us a call at 303-752-2818 or email at train@denverdogworks.com
Citation: www.akc.org
_______________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Denver Dog Works in Colorado. He can be reached through his website at www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
Cold weather brings its own safety and health concerns for both people and dogs. As a responsible dog owner, it is important to pay attention to your dog’s well-being during the winter. Remember the following precautions to help keep your pet comfortable, healthy and safe all season.
Provide Plenty of Fresh Water
Your dog is just as likely to get dehydrated in the winter as in the summer. Snow is not a satisfactory substitute for water.
Provide Plenty of Food
Feed your dog additional calories if it spends a lot of time outdoors or is a working animal. It takes more energy in the winter to keep the body temperature regulated, so additional; calories are necessary.
Keep Your Dog’s Paws Dry
Rinse your dog’s feet and dry them completely after a walk. This helps avoid tiny cuts and cracked pads. A little petroleum jelly or bag balm may soften the pads and prevent further cracking. Dog booties also work well.
Groom Your Dog Regularly
Your dog needs a well-groomed coat to keep properly insulated. Towel or blow-dry your dog if it gets wet from rain or snow.
Keep Your Dog Warm, Dry and Away From Drafts
Adequate shelter is a necessity. Tiles and uncarpeted areas may become extremely cold. Place blankets and pads on floors in these areas.
Watch Out for Winter Hazards
Cold: Do not leave your dog outside for long periods of time. Wind-chill makes days colder than actual temperature readings, and dogs are susceptible to frostbite on their ears, tails and feet.
Ice and Snow: Be extra careful when walking or playing with your dog outside. Your dog could slip or jump in a frozen lake, river or pond and get seriously injured. Snow can muffle scents and your dog can easily get lost.
Carbon Monoxide: Do not leave your dog alone in the car. It gets too cold, and carbon monoxide from an engine left running is dangerous.
Antifreeze: Although it smells and tastes good to your dog, antifreeze is highly poisonous and can be lethal.
Winter Sports
There are many winter sports that you and your dog can do together. Hiking, snowshoeing, skijoring, jogging, camping, cross-county skiing, mushing or dog sledding and more. Please make sure that you have your dog checked out by your veterinarian and it has a clean bill of health. It you plan to take part in any winter activity please train your dog accordingly and enjoy the snow! Denver Dog Works specializes in canine sports and we can help you and your dog achieve your goals together.
If you would like to schedule a no-cost evaluation to discuss winter sports with your dog please give us a call at 303-752-2818 or email at train@denverdogworks.com
Citation: www.akc.org
_______________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Denver Dog Works in Colorado. He can be reached through his website at www.denverdogworks.com
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
The Power of Your Mind in Dog Training
The Power of Your Mind in Dog Training
By Robert Forto, PhD
Just this past week we had an encore airing of one of most popular shows, Mind-Body Dog Training on the Dog Doctor Radio Show. If you want to change the way your dog performs this is something you will not want to miss.
Think about it, you are about to head into the ring for a big obedience match or a conformation show. Of course you are nervous. You have worked so hard for this big day. Up until now you and your dog have been in perfect synchronicity. Haven't you? You have done your pre-game prep and you are up next.
Then something catches your dogs eye and your whole dog training world comes crumbling down. Your dog gets spooked, you tense up and your dog pulls away. Your run in the ring ends in chaos and you are disqualified. Something you have worked so hard on for the past two years: all of those individual lessons with your private trainer, the perfect pick of the litter puppy, all that money, gone in an instant!
What if you could change that just by harnessing the power of your mind? No, I am not talking about some freakish mind over matter, late night TV infomercial garbage. I am talking about a centuries old process known as Neuro Linguistic Programing (NLP). In a sense it is a model of how we communicate and our personality. While this process has been around for centuries, the NLP model was developed in the 1970’s by Richard Bandler, John Grinder and others. This model explains how we process the information that comes from our outside world. Their belief is “the map is not the territory.” And so the internal representations that we make about an outside event are not necessarily the event itself.
Makes sense doesn't it? Even in dog training we can use this process to make you and your dog the the best team in the world. Even if you don’t compete and just have a “lazy mutt” that likes to play fetch in the back yard.
You see, Dr. Robert Forto is a practitioner of NLP, and his training school, Denver Dog Works has a motto: We have the best and train the best. By employing the processes of NLP in our training programs we too can make your dog one of the best too. This is cutting edge training in the dog training world. Nobody does this and that is why they can not hold claim to our title.
Do you want to see how it works? Here’s how. Typically what happen is that there is an external event (your dog getting spooked in the ring) an we then run that event though our internal processing. We then make an Internal Representation (I/R) of that event. That I/R of the event combines with a physiology and that creates a state. “State” refers to our emotional state--a happy state, a sad state, a motivated state, or in our case with our dog in the ring, and anxious state. Our I/R includes our internal pictures, sounds and dialogue and our feelings (for example, whether we feel anxious and challenged in our dog’s training and performance). A given state is the result of the combination of an internal representations and a physiology. So what happens is that an event comes through our sensory input channels which I can teach you in NLP training and training your dog to be the best.
After the event becomes an I/R it is how our mind processes this information and the outcome that is achieved. We use filters in our mind to accomplish this and this is where the real power of NLP comes into play. For example I am just going to talk about one: Beliefs. Beliefs are generalizations about how our world is. One of the important elements in the NLP model is to find out a persons beliefs about a particular behavior we are trying to model. Richard Bandler says “Beliefs are those things we can’t get around.” Beliefs are the presuppositions that we have about the way of the world us that we either create or deny personal power to us. So beliefs are essentially our on/off switch for our ability to do anything in the world. In our dog training example. Make you and your dog the best dog team ever! Wouldn't that be great? Go into the ring and get a qualifying score every time? Heck yes it would!
So if you would like to find out more about mind-body dog training, I highly encourage you to give us a call. We truly to have the best and train the rest. Do you want to win too? Yes you do!
Citation: The Accelerated NLP Practitioner Certification Training Manual
__________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project. Dr. Forto is also a practitioner of NLP and is the host of a weekly show, The Dog Doctor Radio and can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
Just this past week we had an encore airing of one of most popular shows, Mind-Body Dog Training on the Dog Doctor Radio Show. If you want to change the way your dog performs this is something you will not want to miss.
Think about it, you are about to head into the ring for a big obedience match or a conformation show. Of course you are nervous. You have worked so hard for this big day. Up until now you and your dog have been in perfect synchronicity. Haven't you? You have done your pre-game prep and you are up next.
Then something catches your dogs eye and your whole dog training world comes crumbling down. Your dog gets spooked, you tense up and your dog pulls away. Your run in the ring ends in chaos and you are disqualified. Something you have worked so hard on for the past two years: all of those individual lessons with your private trainer, the perfect pick of the litter puppy, all that money, gone in an instant!
What if you could change that just by harnessing the power of your mind? No, I am not talking about some freakish mind over matter, late night TV infomercial garbage. I am talking about a centuries old process known as Neuro Linguistic Programing (NLP). In a sense it is a model of how we communicate and our personality. While this process has been around for centuries, the NLP model was developed in the 1970’s by Richard Bandler, John Grinder and others. This model explains how we process the information that comes from our outside world. Their belief is “the map is not the territory.” And so the internal representations that we make about an outside event are not necessarily the event itself.
Makes sense doesn't it? Even in dog training we can use this process to make you and your dog the the best team in the world. Even if you don’t compete and just have a “lazy mutt” that likes to play fetch in the back yard.
You see, Dr. Robert Forto is a practitioner of NLP, and his training school, Denver Dog Works has a motto: We have the best and train the best. By employing the processes of NLP in our training programs we too can make your dog one of the best too. This is cutting edge training in the dog training world. Nobody does this and that is why they can not hold claim to our title.
Do you want to see how it works? Here’s how. Typically what happen is that there is an external event (your dog getting spooked in the ring) an we then run that event though our internal processing. We then make an Internal Representation (I/R) of that event. That I/R of the event combines with a physiology and that creates a state. “State” refers to our emotional state--a happy state, a sad state, a motivated state, or in our case with our dog in the ring, and anxious state. Our I/R includes our internal pictures, sounds and dialogue and our feelings (for example, whether we feel anxious and challenged in our dog’s training and performance). A given state is the result of the combination of an internal representations and a physiology. So what happens is that an event comes through our sensory input channels which I can teach you in NLP training and training your dog to be the best.
After the event becomes an I/R it is how our mind processes this information and the outcome that is achieved. We use filters in our mind to accomplish this and this is where the real power of NLP comes into play. For example I am just going to talk about one: Beliefs. Beliefs are generalizations about how our world is. One of the important elements in the NLP model is to find out a persons beliefs about a particular behavior we are trying to model. Richard Bandler says “Beliefs are those things we can’t get around.” Beliefs are the presuppositions that we have about the way of the world us that we either create or deny personal power to us. So beliefs are essentially our on/off switch for our ability to do anything in the world. In our dog training example. Make you and your dog the best dog team ever! Wouldn't that be great? Go into the ring and get a qualifying score every time? Heck yes it would!
So if you would like to find out more about mind-body dog training, I highly encourage you to give us a call. We truly to have the best and train the rest. Do you want to win too? Yes you do!
Citation: The Accelerated NLP Practitioner Certification Training Manual
__________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project. Dr. Forto is also a practitioner of NLP and is the host of a weekly show, The Dog Doctor Radio and can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Friday, November 13, 2009
The Business End of the Leash: Dog Works Training Centers
The Business End of the Leash
Welcome to The Dog Works Training Center Business Opportunity
By Robert Forto, PhD
Thinking about a career, maybe you’re thinking about your next career, or just supplementing your income. Look no further. At The Dog Works Training Center – We have the best and train the rest!
Our founders Dr. Robert Forto, Ph.D. and his wife Michele set out a decade ago to build the best dog training center in Denver, Colorado. Through hard work and perseverance they now can help you Never Forget Your Dreams!
A Dog Works Training Center Business Opportunity not only trains you how to become the best dog trainer you can be but the training program has a key emphasis on training you how to manage and market your new business. Our program is different from the rest. Dr. Forto is an animal behaviorist and holds an M.B.A. with 20 years of dog training and industry experience. He has written and teaches his own canine obedience instructor certification course which is the first step. By ensuring that you learn the business end of the leash not only will you be successful you will see results immediately.
The pet industry is ever-expanding and growing, even in the current economic state. In today’s lifestyle many families are carrying more than one job and in some cases one or more persons is working a second job. Mom is looking for a legitimate work-from-home business are amongst are most interested clientele.
Becoming a certified canine obedience instructor and a business owner of your own dog works training center gives you a sense of worth and gives you opportunities every day to help people and their dogs begin to live the lifestyle that they imagined when they first got their dog. Challenging things happen along the way, that’s where a certified canine obedience instructor is most sought after. Just review some of the statistics. There are more than 75 million pet dogs in the U.S. This year Americans will spend more than $40 billion to keep our pets fed, adorned, amused, and healthy with more owners paying top dollar for elaborate medical treatments to forestall that inevitable last visit to the vet. By the end of the decade, Americans will be spending $50 billion on pet products, according to the APPMA (American Pet Products Manufacturers Association) (2000 – 2001). 47% of owners consider their pets full-fledged family members.
As certified/business, owner/instructor of a Dog Works Training Center in your city, you will be the answer to those dog owners that love their dogs, but just cannot find a way to deal with barking, house breaking, obedience, or other behavioral problems. Every year thousands of dogs unfortunately end of in shelters because owners just cannot find a way to solve their dogs’ behavioral problems. We have many testimonials thanking us teaching families how to maintain the lifestyle with their dogs that they imagined when they picked out their dog that first day.
If you expect the best and want to be the best, then this is the business opportunity you have been looking for.
What could dog training do for me? Becoming a certified canine obedience instructor allows you to set your own schedule, help people to have a more enjoyable relationship with their dog and much more. Dog training allows you to work closely with dogs and if you’re already dabbling in dog training then this is the perfect business opportunity for you.
I am sure there are plenty of dog trainers out there, why would someone pick me? As certified/business, owner/instructor of a Dog Works Training Center in your city you will be the most sought after trainer because you took the time to become certified. You will be trusted and awarded for your efforts in the dog training community.
A Dog Training Career is what you will have when you complete are comprehensive training program.
• Positive reinforcement training;
• The business end of the leash – effectively learn how to promote your new business;
• Continued support from Dog Works Training Center headquarters;
• Business Package includes; correspondence certification course that prepares you to take the National Certification exam, business and sales development training, branding, advertising, website, on-site apprenticeship, life time support, access to our training resources database, Behaviorist Consultations, seminars, conferences, events, and much more.
At The Dog Works Training Center, We have the best and train the rest! We provide you with detailed information and training to get your business of to a great start. Not only are we canine obedience instructors and business savvy, but Dr. Forto has written a course to help you become a certified obedience instructor. The Canine Behavioral Sciences course is what sets The Dog Works Training Center apart from all other franchise opportunities out there. The course can be completed in just 12 weeks, making it the most comprehensive course out there. Not only teaching you how to train but recognize behaviors and certain health conditions contributing to the dogs overall stability.
If you would like to learn more information please contact us by email at info@dogtrainingcenter.com or call anytime at 303-578-9881.
The Dog Works Training Center, LLC will refund 100% of licensing fees you pay us if, at any time during the 12 week training program, it is deemed by the instructors that you will not successfully complete the DW Business Owner Certification. Why do we have such simple, pervasive guarantee and put it in writing? We have a reputation to protect. If you cannot grasp the business from the outset, we’d rather recruit and train another owner in your market right away.
_________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for The Dog Works Training Center, LLC and of several other dog training schools. Dr. Forto hosts a weekly radio show, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, every Saturday. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Welcome to The Dog Works Training Center Business Opportunity
By Robert Forto, PhD
Thinking about a career, maybe you’re thinking about your next career, or just supplementing your income. Look no further. At The Dog Works Training Center – We have the best and train the rest!
Our founders Dr. Robert Forto, Ph.D. and his wife Michele set out a decade ago to build the best dog training center in Denver, Colorado. Through hard work and perseverance they now can help you Never Forget Your Dreams!
A Dog Works Training Center Business Opportunity not only trains you how to become the best dog trainer you can be but the training program has a key emphasis on training you how to manage and market your new business. Our program is different from the rest. Dr. Forto is an animal behaviorist and holds an M.B.A. with 20 years of dog training and industry experience. He has written and teaches his own canine obedience instructor certification course which is the first step. By ensuring that you learn the business end of the leash not only will you be successful you will see results immediately.
The pet industry is ever-expanding and growing, even in the current economic state. In today’s lifestyle many families are carrying more than one job and in some cases one or more persons is working a second job. Mom is looking for a legitimate work-from-home business are amongst are most interested clientele.
Becoming a certified canine obedience instructor and a business owner of your own dog works training center gives you a sense of worth and gives you opportunities every day to help people and their dogs begin to live the lifestyle that they imagined when they first got their dog. Challenging things happen along the way, that’s where a certified canine obedience instructor is most sought after. Just review some of the statistics. There are more than 75 million pet dogs in the U.S. This year Americans will spend more than $40 billion to keep our pets fed, adorned, amused, and healthy with more owners paying top dollar for elaborate medical treatments to forestall that inevitable last visit to the vet. By the end of the decade, Americans will be spending $50 billion on pet products, according to the APPMA (American Pet Products Manufacturers Association) (2000 – 2001). 47% of owners consider their pets full-fledged family members.
As certified/business, owner/instructor of a Dog Works Training Center in your city, you will be the answer to those dog owners that love their dogs, but just cannot find a way to deal with barking, house breaking, obedience, or other behavioral problems. Every year thousands of dogs unfortunately end of in shelters because owners just cannot find a way to solve their dogs’ behavioral problems. We have many testimonials thanking us teaching families how to maintain the lifestyle with their dogs that they imagined when they picked out their dog that first day.
If you expect the best and want to be the best, then this is the business opportunity you have been looking for.
What could dog training do for me? Becoming a certified canine obedience instructor allows you to set your own schedule, help people to have a more enjoyable relationship with their dog and much more. Dog training allows you to work closely with dogs and if you’re already dabbling in dog training then this is the perfect business opportunity for you.
I am sure there are plenty of dog trainers out there, why would someone pick me? As certified/business, owner/instructor of a Dog Works Training Center in your city you will be the most sought after trainer because you took the time to become certified. You will be trusted and awarded for your efforts in the dog training community.
A Dog Training Career is what you will have when you complete are comprehensive training program.
• Positive reinforcement training;
• The business end of the leash – effectively learn how to promote your new business;
• Continued support from Dog Works Training Center headquarters;
• Business Package includes; correspondence certification course that prepares you to take the National Certification exam, business and sales development training, branding, advertising, website, on-site apprenticeship, life time support, access to our training resources database, Behaviorist Consultations, seminars, conferences, events, and much more.
At The Dog Works Training Center, We have the best and train the rest! We provide you with detailed information and training to get your business of to a great start. Not only are we canine obedience instructors and business savvy, but Dr. Forto has written a course to help you become a certified obedience instructor. The Canine Behavioral Sciences course is what sets The Dog Works Training Center apart from all other franchise opportunities out there. The course can be completed in just 12 weeks, making it the most comprehensive course out there. Not only teaching you how to train but recognize behaviors and certain health conditions contributing to the dogs overall stability.
If you would like to learn more information please contact us by email at info@dogtrainingcenter.com or call anytime at 303-578-9881.
The Dog Works Training Center, LLC will refund 100% of licensing fees you pay us if, at any time during the 12 week training program, it is deemed by the instructors that you will not successfully complete the DW Business Owner Certification. Why do we have such simple, pervasive guarantee and put it in writing? We have a reputation to protect. If you cannot grasp the business from the outset, we’d rather recruit and train another owner in your market right away.
_________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for The Dog Works Training Center, LLC and of several other dog training schools. Dr. Forto hosts a weekly radio show, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, every Saturday. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Influential People in Learning Theory Part II
Canine Trainers Forum: Influential People in Learning Theory Part II
By Robert Forto, PhD
This is a weekly series of articles on Canine Training. We will post these articles every Saturday. We are going to start by posting articles about the history of human-canine communication and learning theory and why this approach is the de-facto method of training our companion animals. The training methods used by many trainers and training schools simply do not work. They are not based on the principles of how a dog learns. I classify these types of trainers into two groups: Yank and Crank and Wait and See trainers (We will discuss both of these methods in a future article so stay tuned and subscribe to our blog on our website Denver Dog Works). Both of these methods will have a degree of success but not a long term effect on changing your dog's overall behavior. Both of these methods are an "easy way out" for training your dog.
I will be the first to admit that dog training is work. Hard work and it takes a great deal of knowledge, understanding, patience and adaption in order for it to be a success. Do you want to go to a trainer or training school that has a trainer that is still wet-behind-the-ears or is earning minimum wage at a big box store? Or do you want to go to a professional that has literally lived with a pack of sled dogs for the better part of fifteen years and earned his doctorate on the basis of human-canine communication? If you would like to talk about this in more detail, I encourage you to give us a call anytime at 303-578-9881 303-578-9881 or send us an email at train@denverdogworks.com We look forward to hearing from you!
Influential People in the Development of Learning Theory
Pavlov, Thorndike, and Watson
Many attribute the beginning point of modern theories of behavior to Ivan Pavlov (1849-1936).A Russian physiologist, and Nobel Prize winner, Pavlov studied digestion in dogs.While conducting this research he observed his canine subjects salivating before the food was presented.Pavlov reasoned that his dogs were displaying this behavior in response to either the presence of his lab assistants, or the sound of the door opening.
Pavlov then conducted a series of experiments where he rang a bell just prior to feeding his canines.After a number of trials, the ringing of the bell by itself elicited the reflexive salivation of the canines.This phenomenon became known as Pavlovian or classical conditioning.Pavlov had succeeded in taking a reflexive action and putting it on cue, thereby creating a "conditioned reflex".This new science became known as respondent conditioning, and was an important predecessor to modern operant conditioning.Respondent conditioning and conditioned reflexive responses explain why a dog begins to salivate when its owner begins the feeding ritual.The understanding of this type of conditioning can enhance a trainer's procedure.Most training procedures are indeed built upon the principles of operant conditioning, which will be discussed in greater depth in a later part of this chapter.Respondent conditioning on the other hand is most useful when trying to change a dog's behavior.Some examples might be habituation, counter-conditioning, systematic desensitization, and flooding.These principles will also be discussed later in this chapter.
Edward Lee Thorndike (1874-1949) studied the effect different consequences have on behaviors.Thorndike is known for the Law of Effect, which simply states that responses or behaviors that produce pleasant rewards are likely to increase in frequency.This law is the foundation on which operant conditioning is built, and is the predecessor of all the "treat training" now being advocated in modern dog training.Thorndike's experiments were being conducted in the United States near the time that Pavlov's dogs were salivating in Russia.
J.B. Watson (1878-1958) has been credited as the father of modern behaviorism.A psychologist who worked at John Hopkins University, as well as, The University of Chicago, Watson emphasized the need to move the study of behavior away from the concentration on thoughts and feelings towards a more scientific, experimental study of behavior.Watson is best known for his "Little Albert" study in which he and his colleague, R. Rayner, conditioned a fear reaction in an eleven-month-old boy named Albert.The study went like this:
"Initially, Albert was allowed to play freely with a white rat.Then, a loud noise was presented whenever Albert reached out and touched the rat.The noise was loud enough to startle Albert.In one week, whenever the rat was presented Albert would cry, even without the noise.He also generalized his fear to other things, including a dog, a rabbit, and a Santa Claus mask.Watson used respondent conditioning (in this case, the startle reflex) to modify Albert's behavior." [i]
Skinner, Keller, and Schoenfeld
B.F. Skinner (1904-1990) continued the work that Thorndike started.He was the leading advocate of a more modern version of Thorndike's Law of Effect, which states, "The frequency of a behavior increases or decreases according to the result it [the behavior] produces." [ii]
When Skinner was pursuing his doctorate at Harvard University he discovered that he could methodically change the behavior of lab rats by rewarding them with food.This study proceeded in the following stages:
"First, the rat was rewarded simply for facing the correct end of the cage.Next, the rat was rewarded only when it stood next to the lever.Later stages delayed the reward until the rat touched the lever with its body.Eventually the rat learned it had to press the lever to receive a pellet of food." [iii]
Skinner's viewpoints were unique in that he felt the proper study of behavior should be limited to "observable events" of behavior, and instead of how the subject might think.He consistently argued against making interpretations based on events that could not be observed.Skinner did not discuss intervening variables, such as hunger or thirst, when interpreting behavioral learning.
In 1938, B.F. Skinner published The Behavior of Organisms (New York: D. Appleton-Century Co.).Many consider this milestone work the leading authority on the science of operant conditioning.Today many dog trainers are using clickers for training canines; clickers are conditioned reinforcers that have been used by conditioning experts since the 1940's.Skinner wrote about clickers, which he called "crickets", in a paper called How to Teach Animals in 1951.
While on the faculty of the University of Minnesota, Skinner's study of operant conditioning principles was expanded to include pigeons.He was studying a phenomenon known as extinction when it occurred to him to ask himself, are theories of learning necessary?As previously discussed Skinner felt the study of behavior should be limited to events that were observable and measurable.Skinner maintained that the science of behavior should actually deal with behavior in its relation to variables that could be systematically manipulated.
Skinner was a leading advocate of Expectancy Theory; it was his contention that learning theory was in reality nothing more that expectancy.He wrote, "When we assert that an animal acts in a given way because it expects to receive food [or any reinforcers], then what began as the task of accounting for a learned behavior becomes the task of accounting for expectancy." [iv] Skinner is also partially credited for moving the science of operant conditioning beyond the lab, and towards a viable technology for changing behavior.
Fred S. Keller (1899-1966) is well known for his work on a teaching method known as Personalized System of Instruction (PSI).Keller was a classmate, and lifelong friend of B. F. Skinner. While it is true that Skinner ultimately wound up on the faculty at Harvard, where as Keller taught at Columbia, they remained colleagues throughout their lives.
In 1947, Fred Keller teamed up with William Schoenfeld (1915-1996) at Columbia University and began to teach the first college psychology course employing Skinner's methods.Undergraduate students taught rats to respond to stimuli in order to obtain reinforcement.Keller and Schoenfeld published the first text in the emerging field of operant conditioning in 1950 entitled Principles of Psychology.
Breland and Bailey
In 1938, Marian Kruse, a research assistant, was bitten by one of B. F. Skinner's lab rats.On her way to receive medical attention Kruse met Keller Breland, a brilliant and ambitious graduate student in psychology. A professional and personal relationship developed and they were married in 1941; the same year the United States was going to war.
B. F. Skinner was convinced that the science of operant conditioning could be used to effectively help the war effort.Skinner's prior experience with the behavior of pigeons was invaluable to Project Pelican.Keller and Marian Breland trained pigeons to guide bombs for the Navy; fittingly these bombs were called "pelicans".Project Pelican was disbanded in 1943, but Marian Breland carried on by training animals for commercials and animal shows.
The Brelands published Applied Animal Psychology in 1951.This paper described how operant conditioning could be used to teach animals.They are credited by many for ushering in the commercial application of the science of operant conditioning.
With stories in The Wall Street Journal, Time, and even Life; the Brelands were obviously quite popular.With this popularity, Marine Studios in Florida noticed the Brelands and worked with them to develop a dolphin act.The development of this same act led to the publication of the first procedural training manual for dolphin trainers.Operant conditioning and conditioned reinforcers played an enormous role in the training procedures of dolphins due to the distance that the trainer is removed from the subject.
The Brelands' involvement with dolphins brought them, and their teaching methods, to the attention of the Navy yet again.A zoologist from the University of California by the name of Bob Bailey headed up the Navy's Dolphins at Sea program.In 1965 Bailey drew on the extensive experience of the Brelands in respect to the behavior of pigeons. In this with respect, in developing an ambush detection system for the Army.In the same year Keller Breland passed away.Bob Bailey and Marian Breland continued the work that the three of them had started. They were eventually married in 1976.
Bob Bailey also developed the concept of a bridging stimulus, which is a method of using a "bridge of time" between the subject animals' correct response and the delivery of a primary reinforcer.
The value of the contribution that these individuals made to the advancement of learning theory is without measure and cannot be understated.Because of their redundant work the understanding of learning has made important advancements throughout the years. If you would like to read my doctorate dissertation: Chasing the Dream: A History of Human-Canine Communication in the Sport of Dog Sledding in its entirety it can be purchased as a .pdf from for $19.10 please send me an email at train@denverdogworks.com and I will arrange it.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[i] Burch, M., Ph.D., and Bailey, J. S., Ph.D ., How Dogs Learn. Howell Book House,1999, Pg. 5.
[ii] Plonsky, M., Ph.D., " How Dogs Learn," Thomson Education Direct, Scranton, PA, 2001, Pg. 36.
[iii] Plonsky, M., Ph.D., " How Dogs Learn," Thomson Education Direct, Scranton, PA, 2001, Pg. 36. Pg. 37
[iv] Skinner, B.F., Are Theories of Learning Necessary?, (1950), Web Document: "Classics in the History of Psychology" by Christopher D. Green, http://psychclassics.yorku.ca/Skinner/Theories.
_______________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and the Ineka Project in Colorado. Dr. Forto hosts a weekly program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show every Saturday. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
This is a weekly series of articles on Canine Training. We will post these articles every Saturday. We are going to start by posting articles about the history of human-canine communication and learning theory and why this approach is the de-facto method of training our companion animals. The training methods used by many trainers and training schools simply do not work. They are not based on the principles of how a dog learns. I classify these types of trainers into two groups: Yank and Crank and Wait and See trainers (We will discuss both of these methods in a future article so stay tuned and subscribe to our blog on our website Denver Dog Works). Both of these methods will have a degree of success but not a long term effect on changing your dog's overall behavior. Both of these methods are an "easy way out" for training your dog.
I will be the first to admit that dog training is work. Hard work and it takes a great deal of knowledge, understanding, patience and adaption in order for it to be a success. Do you want to go to a trainer or training school that has a trainer that is still wet-behind-the-ears or is earning minimum wage at a big box store? Or do you want to go to a professional that has literally lived with a pack of sled dogs for the better part of fifteen years and earned his doctorate on the basis of human-canine communication? If you would like to talk about this in more detail, I encourage you to give us a call anytime at 303-578-9881 303-578-9881 or send us an email at train@denverdogworks.com We look forward to hearing from you!
Influential People in the Development of Learning Theory
Pavlov, Thorndike, and Watson
Many attribute the beginning point of modern theories of behavior to Ivan Pavlov (1849-1936).A Russian physiologist, and Nobel Prize winner, Pavlov studied digestion in dogs.While conducting this research he observed his canine subjects salivating before the food was presented.Pavlov reasoned that his dogs were displaying this behavior in response to either the presence of his lab assistants, or the sound of the door opening.
Pavlov then conducted a series of experiments where he rang a bell just prior to feeding his canines.After a number of trials, the ringing of the bell by itself elicited the reflexive salivation of the canines.This phenomenon became known as Pavlovian or classical conditioning.Pavlov had succeeded in taking a reflexive action and putting it on cue, thereby creating a "conditioned reflex".This new science became known as respondent conditioning, and was an important predecessor to modern operant conditioning.Respondent conditioning and conditioned reflexive responses explain why a dog begins to salivate when its owner begins the feeding ritual.The understanding of this type of conditioning can enhance a trainer's procedure.Most training procedures are indeed built upon the principles of operant conditioning, which will be discussed in greater depth in a later part of this chapter.Respondent conditioning on the other hand is most useful when trying to change a dog's behavior.Some examples might be habituation, counter-conditioning, systematic desensitization, and flooding.These principles will also be discussed later in this chapter.
Edward Lee Thorndike (1874-1949) studied the effect different consequences have on behaviors.Thorndike is known for the Law of Effect, which simply states that responses or behaviors that produce pleasant rewards are likely to increase in frequency.This law is the foundation on which operant conditioning is built, and is the predecessor of all the "treat training" now being advocated in modern dog training.Thorndike's experiments were being conducted in the United States near the time that Pavlov's dogs were salivating in Russia.
J.B. Watson (1878-1958) has been credited as the father of modern behaviorism.A psychologist who worked at John Hopkins University, as well as, The University of Chicago, Watson emphasized the need to move the study of behavior away from the concentration on thoughts and feelings towards a more scientific, experimental study of behavior.Watson is best known for his "Little Albert" study in which he and his colleague, R. Rayner, conditioned a fear reaction in an eleven-month-old boy named Albert.The study went like this:
"Initially, Albert was allowed to play freely with a white rat.Then, a loud noise was presented whenever Albert reached out and touched the rat.The noise was loud enough to startle Albert.In one week, whenever the rat was presented Albert would cry, even without the noise.He also generalized his fear to other things, including a dog, a rabbit, and a Santa Claus mask.Watson used respondent conditioning (in this case, the startle reflex) to modify Albert's behavior." [i]
Skinner, Keller, and Schoenfeld
B.F. Skinner (1904-1990) continued the work that Thorndike started.He was the leading advocate of a more modern version of Thorndike's Law of Effect, which states, "The frequency of a behavior increases or decreases according to the result it [the behavior] produces." [ii]
When Skinner was pursuing his doctorate at Harvard University he discovered that he could methodically change the behavior of lab rats by rewarding them with food.This study proceeded in the following stages:
"First, the rat was rewarded simply for facing the correct end of the cage.Next, the rat was rewarded only when it stood next to the lever.Later stages delayed the reward until the rat touched the lever with its body.Eventually the rat learned it had to press the lever to receive a pellet of food." [iii]
Skinner's viewpoints were unique in that he felt the proper study of behavior should be limited to "observable events" of behavior, and instead of how the subject might think.He consistently argued against making interpretations based on events that could not be observed.Skinner did not discuss intervening variables, such as hunger or thirst, when interpreting behavioral learning.
In 1938, B.F. Skinner published The Behavior of Organisms (New York: D. Appleton-Century Co.).Many consider this milestone work the leading authority on the science of operant conditioning.Today many dog trainers are using clickers for training canines; clickers are conditioned reinforcers that have been used by conditioning experts since the 1940's.Skinner wrote about clickers, which he called "crickets", in a paper called How to Teach Animals in 1951.
While on the faculty of the University of Minnesota, Skinner's study of operant conditioning principles was expanded to include pigeons.He was studying a phenomenon known as extinction when it occurred to him to ask himself, are theories of learning necessary?As previously discussed Skinner felt the study of behavior should be limited to events that were observable and measurable.Skinner maintained that the science of behavior should actually deal with behavior in its relation to variables that could be systematically manipulated.
Skinner was a leading advocate of Expectancy Theory; it was his contention that learning theory was in reality nothing more that expectancy.He wrote, "When we assert that an animal acts in a given way because it expects to receive food [or any reinforcers], then what began as the task of accounting for a learned behavior becomes the task of accounting for expectancy." [iv] Skinner is also partially credited for moving the science of operant conditioning beyond the lab, and towards a viable technology for changing behavior.
Fred S. Keller (1899-1966) is well known for his work on a teaching method known as Personalized System of Instruction (PSI).Keller was a classmate, and lifelong friend of B. F. Skinner. While it is true that Skinner ultimately wound up on the faculty at Harvard, where as Keller taught at Columbia, they remained colleagues throughout their lives.
In 1947, Fred Keller teamed up with William Schoenfeld (1915-1996) at Columbia University and began to teach the first college psychology course employing Skinner's methods.Undergraduate students taught rats to respond to stimuli in order to obtain reinforcement.Keller and Schoenfeld published the first text in the emerging field of operant conditioning in 1950 entitled Principles of Psychology.
Breland and Bailey
In 1938, Marian Kruse, a research assistant, was bitten by one of B. F. Skinner's lab rats.On her way to receive medical attention Kruse met Keller Breland, a brilliant and ambitious graduate student in psychology. A professional and personal relationship developed and they were married in 1941; the same year the United States was going to war.
B. F. Skinner was convinced that the science of operant conditioning could be used to effectively help the war effort.Skinner's prior experience with the behavior of pigeons was invaluable to Project Pelican.Keller and Marian Breland trained pigeons to guide bombs for the Navy; fittingly these bombs were called "pelicans".Project Pelican was disbanded in 1943, but Marian Breland carried on by training animals for commercials and animal shows.
The Brelands published Applied Animal Psychology in 1951.This paper described how operant conditioning could be used to teach animals.They are credited by many for ushering in the commercial application of the science of operant conditioning.
With stories in The Wall Street Journal, Time, and even Life; the Brelands were obviously quite popular.With this popularity, Marine Studios in Florida noticed the Brelands and worked with them to develop a dolphin act.The development of this same act led to the publication of the first procedural training manual for dolphin trainers.Operant conditioning and conditioned reinforcers played an enormous role in the training procedures of dolphins due to the distance that the trainer is removed from the subject.
The Brelands' involvement with dolphins brought them, and their teaching methods, to the attention of the Navy yet again.A zoologist from the University of California by the name of Bob Bailey headed up the Navy's Dolphins at Sea program.In 1965 Bailey drew on the extensive experience of the Brelands in respect to the behavior of pigeons. In this with respect, in developing an ambush detection system for the Army.In the same year Keller Breland passed away.Bob Bailey and Marian Breland continued the work that the three of them had started. They were eventually married in 1976.
Bob Bailey also developed the concept of a bridging stimulus, which is a method of using a "bridge of time" between the subject animals' correct response and the delivery of a primary reinforcer.
The value of the contribution that these individuals made to the advancement of learning theory is without measure and cannot be understated.Because of their redundant work the understanding of learning has made important advancements throughout the years. If you would like to read my doctorate dissertation: Chasing the Dream: A History of Human-Canine Communication in the Sport of Dog Sledding in its entirety it can be purchased as a .pdf from for $19.10 please send me an email at train@denverdogworks.com and I will arrange it.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[i] Burch, M., Ph.D., and Bailey, J. S., Ph.D ., How Dogs Learn. Howell Book House,1999, Pg. 5.
[ii] Plonsky, M., Ph.D., " How Dogs Learn," Thomson Education Direct, Scranton, PA, 2001, Pg. 36.
[iii] Plonsky, M., Ph.D., " How Dogs Learn," Thomson Education Direct, Scranton, PA, 2001, Pg. 36. Pg. 37
[iv] Skinner, B.F., Are Theories of Learning Necessary?, (1950), Web Document: "Classics in the History of Psychology" by Christopher D. Green, http://psychclassics.yorku.ca/Skinner/Theories.
_______________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and the Ineka Project in Colorado. Dr. Forto hosts a weekly program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show every Saturday. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Domminance Aggression
Dominance Aggression
By Robert Forto, PhD
Dogs do not see pack members as equals, instead, a hierarchy must be established to show which is of higher and lower rank to keep peace within the pack. Any number of pack members living together, whether dog or human, must have an established hierarchy in the dog’s eyes, in order to get along. This hierarchy, although flexible due to the level of motivation in a particular situation, is established and maintained through a variety of communication signals, through vocalization, body language and mute signaling.
When challenged, a lower ranking pack member must quickly demonstrate deferral or submission to the higher ranking dog, in order to avoid aggressive discipline and enforcement to the higher ranking dog. This aggressive enforcement is instigated by the lower ranking pack member failing to defer quickly enough to the higher ranking dog. This aggressive display is called Dominance Aggression.
• The dog is in the presence of a valued resource such as; the food bowl with or without food, human food, toys, bones, rawhide, garbage, stolen items, the owner, or sleeping place.
• A person attempts to remove a valued resource such as those listed above.
• The dog is approached.
• The dog is spoken to.
• The dog is verbally or physically reprimanded.
• The dog is petted or handled or examined.
• The dog’s nails are being trimmed.
• The dog is picked up.
• The dog is restrained.
• The dog is disturbed while sitting or sleeping.
• The dog is lying on an area perceived as a bed or den such as; couch, chair, owner’s bed, dog’s bed, blanket, under a table, etc.
• A family member is approached, touched or spoken to by an outsider or other family member.
• Human postures or communication perceived as controlling or challenging such as; direct eye contact, reaching or leaning over top of the dog, approaching or, speaking to the dog, verbally or physically punishing the dog, etc.
How Dominant Dogs Control Their Owners
• Demanding food or attention.
• Demanding to be picked up or put down.
• Demanding play.
• Being aloof when the owner offers attention.
• Blocking the owner’s movements with her body.
• Shoulder and hip slams.
• Mouthing and biting.
• Resisting commands.
• Resisting discipline.
• Resisting handling.
• Protecting valued resources.
• Growling, snarling.
• Staring.
• Mounting and pelvic thrusts.
• Rarely exhibiting submissive body signals such as; lowering the body, looking away, rolling over.
How Owners Contribute to Dominance
• Games without rules.
• Allowing the dog to direct human behavior.
• Rewarding demands for food or attention.
• Allowing the dog on the furniture.
• Inconsistency in training.
• Lack of training.
• Backing down from challenges.
• Excessive attention and/or petting
• Allowing the dog to invade their personal space uninvited.
When Is Dominance Aggression Most Likely to Occur
• In dogs over one year of age.
• In dogs bred from one or both dominant or dominant aggressive parents.
• In intact, purebred dogs.
• In confident, assertive, excitable dogs.
• In breeds more prone to dominance ie; spaniels, terriers, toy breeds.
• In dogs with a history of skin disorders or illness early in life.
Treatment for Dominance Aggression
The Re-Ranking Program
• Ignore ALL demands. It is the job of the top ranking dog to make the decisions and direct the behavior of the rest of the pack. By responding to the dog’s demands, no matter how subtle or insignificant, you are allowing the dog to perceive himself as a strong leader.
• No freebees! The dog must earn absolutely everything of value from a drink of water to a car ride, by performing a previously taught command.
• Remove all valued resources that elicit an aggressive response.
• Follow the desensitization program for possessive aggression to prevent or cure possessive aggression.
• Put the dog on a natural, non-performance diet.
• Put the dog on a feeding schedule to make treats a more effective training tool.
• All treats must be earned and used for training and rehabilitation only; it increases their value to the dog.
• Never feed the dog while preparing or eating food. In the wild, alpha eats first and can take food from anyone, by giving the dog your food, you are giving she alpha position.
• Teach food bowl exercises to prevent or cure food bowl aggression.
• Take back some territory in the home by not allowing the dog access, MINE! The dog must not have access when the owner is away. When the owner is home the barrier is removed and a leash is put on the dog. If the dog approaches the barrier the owner will growl a warning, “OUT”. If the dog crosses the barrier the owner walks the dog back out with the leash.
• Less petting and attention will make the dog earn what she gets.
• Ration games and only play them WITH RULES.
• Make the dog hold a short down stay before allowing freedom in a fenced yard.
• Leave a twenty to forty foot lunge line on the dog while enjoying free time in the yard, occasionally pick up the end of the lunge line and complete a recall. When the dog comes in, reward and release.
• Do not allow the dog on the furniture. A ten foot leash can be used for removal if she gets up with an “off” command (DO NOT grab her collar to for this correction.
• Practice placement commands. Hold the ten foot leash, move away from the dog, give the command “come”, when she comes to you, reward and repeat three times. Release with an “all done” at the end of the exercise.
• Desensitize the dog to handling and restraint.
• Teach the dog to “watch me” on command and to hold the eye contact for up to 30 seconds in the presence of major distractions, with the handler establishing and breaking the eye contact.
• Begin a complete training program using positive reinforcement methods only to increase handler control over and respect from the dog.
• Always reward good behavior and quick correct responses with something of value to the dog i.e.; treats, toy, game, walk, etc.
• Teach the dog to “place” and “down stay” for up to thirty minutes, then release.
• A gentle leader will increase handler control helping the dog to remain calm and focused. It can be left on the dog indoors until control is established.
• Use a ten foot indoor lead to increase handler control when necessary.
• Begin training with the most dominant member of the family and gradually work your way down to the least.
• List all the triggers for aggression.
• Systematically desensitize the dog to each aggression trigger.
• Use counter conditioning to replace unwanted aggressive behavior with a behavior that is incompatible.
• Use creative avoidance to prevent aggressive episodes.
• Use environmental management to ensure that the dog’s environment works for, not against, your rehabilitation program.
• Never leave the dog unsupervised in the presence of anyone who is not a trained part of your rehabilitation program, especially children.
• Once an obvious new hierarchy has been established you can relax with some of these rules, but if the dog begins to challenge again, even in subtle ways, take control back IMMEDIATELY.
____________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project in Colorado. Dr. Forto hosts a weekly program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show every Saturday. Dr. Forto can be reached though his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
Dogs do not see pack members as equals, instead, a hierarchy must be established to show which is of higher and lower rank to keep peace within the pack. Any number of pack members living together, whether dog or human, must have an established hierarchy in the dog’s eyes, in order to get along. This hierarchy, although flexible due to the level of motivation in a particular situation, is established and maintained through a variety of communication signals, through vocalization, body language and mute signaling.
When challenged, a lower ranking pack member must quickly demonstrate deferral or submission to the higher ranking dog, in order to avoid aggressive discipline and enforcement to the higher ranking dog. This aggressive enforcement is instigated by the lower ranking pack member failing to defer quickly enough to the higher ranking dog. This aggressive display is called Dominance Aggression.
• The dog is in the presence of a valued resource such as; the food bowl with or without food, human food, toys, bones, rawhide, garbage, stolen items, the owner, or sleeping place.
• A person attempts to remove a valued resource such as those listed above.
• The dog is approached.
• The dog is spoken to.
• The dog is verbally or physically reprimanded.
• The dog is petted or handled or examined.
• The dog’s nails are being trimmed.
• The dog is picked up.
• The dog is restrained.
• The dog is disturbed while sitting or sleeping.
• The dog is lying on an area perceived as a bed or den such as; couch, chair, owner’s bed, dog’s bed, blanket, under a table, etc.
• A family member is approached, touched or spoken to by an outsider or other family member.
• Human postures or communication perceived as controlling or challenging such as; direct eye contact, reaching or leaning over top of the dog, approaching or, speaking to the dog, verbally or physically punishing the dog, etc.
How Dominant Dogs Control Their Owners
• Demanding food or attention.
• Demanding to be picked up or put down.
• Demanding play.
• Being aloof when the owner offers attention.
• Blocking the owner’s movements with her body.
• Shoulder and hip slams.
• Mouthing and biting.
• Resisting commands.
• Resisting discipline.
• Resisting handling.
• Protecting valued resources.
• Growling, snarling.
• Staring.
• Mounting and pelvic thrusts.
• Rarely exhibiting submissive body signals such as; lowering the body, looking away, rolling over.
How Owners Contribute to Dominance
• Games without rules.
• Allowing the dog to direct human behavior.
• Rewarding demands for food or attention.
• Allowing the dog on the furniture.
• Inconsistency in training.
• Lack of training.
• Backing down from challenges.
• Excessive attention and/or petting
• Allowing the dog to invade their personal space uninvited.
When Is Dominance Aggression Most Likely to Occur
• In dogs over one year of age.
• In dogs bred from one or both dominant or dominant aggressive parents.
• In intact, purebred dogs.
• In confident, assertive, excitable dogs.
• In breeds more prone to dominance ie; spaniels, terriers, toy breeds.
• In dogs with a history of skin disorders or illness early in life.
Treatment for Dominance Aggression
The Re-Ranking Program
• Ignore ALL demands. It is the job of the top ranking dog to make the decisions and direct the behavior of the rest of the pack. By responding to the dog’s demands, no matter how subtle or insignificant, you are allowing the dog to perceive himself as a strong leader.
• No freebees! The dog must earn absolutely everything of value from a drink of water to a car ride, by performing a previously taught command.
• Remove all valued resources that elicit an aggressive response.
• Follow the desensitization program for possessive aggression to prevent or cure possessive aggression.
• Put the dog on a natural, non-performance diet.
• Put the dog on a feeding schedule to make treats a more effective training tool.
• All treats must be earned and used for training and rehabilitation only; it increases their value to the dog.
• Never feed the dog while preparing or eating food. In the wild, alpha eats first and can take food from anyone, by giving the dog your food, you are giving she alpha position.
• Teach food bowl exercises to prevent or cure food bowl aggression.
• Take back some territory in the home by not allowing the dog access, MINE! The dog must not have access when the owner is away. When the owner is home the barrier is removed and a leash is put on the dog. If the dog approaches the barrier the owner will growl a warning, “OUT”. If the dog crosses the barrier the owner walks the dog back out with the leash.
• Less petting and attention will make the dog earn what she gets.
• Ration games and only play them WITH RULES.
• Make the dog hold a short down stay before allowing freedom in a fenced yard.
• Leave a twenty to forty foot lunge line on the dog while enjoying free time in the yard, occasionally pick up the end of the lunge line and complete a recall. When the dog comes in, reward and release.
• Do not allow the dog on the furniture. A ten foot leash can be used for removal if she gets up with an “off” command (DO NOT grab her collar to for this correction.
• Practice placement commands. Hold the ten foot leash, move away from the dog, give the command “come”, when she comes to you, reward and repeat three times. Release with an “all done” at the end of the exercise.
• Desensitize the dog to handling and restraint.
• Teach the dog to “watch me” on command and to hold the eye contact for up to 30 seconds in the presence of major distractions, with the handler establishing and breaking the eye contact.
• Begin a complete training program using positive reinforcement methods only to increase handler control over and respect from the dog.
• Always reward good behavior and quick correct responses with something of value to the dog i.e.; treats, toy, game, walk, etc.
• Teach the dog to “place” and “down stay” for up to thirty minutes, then release.
• A gentle leader will increase handler control helping the dog to remain calm and focused. It can be left on the dog indoors until control is established.
• Use a ten foot indoor lead to increase handler control when necessary.
• Begin training with the most dominant member of the family and gradually work your way down to the least.
• List all the triggers for aggression.
• Systematically desensitize the dog to each aggression trigger.
• Use counter conditioning to replace unwanted aggressive behavior with a behavior that is incompatible.
• Use creative avoidance to prevent aggressive episodes.
• Use environmental management to ensure that the dog’s environment works for, not against, your rehabilitation program.
• Never leave the dog unsupervised in the presence of anyone who is not a trained part of your rehabilitation program, especially children.
• Once an obvious new hierarchy has been established you can relax with some of these rules, but if the dog begins to challenge again, even in subtle ways, take control back IMMEDIATELY.
____________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project in Colorado. Dr. Forto hosts a weekly program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show every Saturday. Dr. Forto can be reached though his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Thursday, October 29, 2009
We Have the Best and Train the Rest
We have the Best and Train the Rest
By Robert Forto, PhD
A lot is said about a training philosophy of a dog training school. Many times it is the first question that is asked when someone calls inquiring about bringing their dog to training. Philosophy means different things to different trainers but I assure you that if you don’t have a clear understanding of what yours is, you will lose customers.
Many people searching for dog training fall into four categories and we will discuss those with regards to your training philosophy and see if you and your training school are positioned correctly to meet the needs of your clients and their dog.
Three Types of Clients
The first type of client is the most common. It is the client whose dog has just destroyed the three thousand dollar leather couch and this is the last straw. They have put up with their dog’s “bad behavior” for too long and need help.
The second type is what I call the “big-box-store-rejects”. These are the clients that have attended a training class at a big box corporate training center and they just didn’t get their needs met. Think about it. Would you go to a doctor at a Wal-Mart? No. These training classes are great for socialization and basic manners but they are not equipped to fix behavioral problems.
The third type is “As Seen on TV” clients. These clients watch a dog training show on cable and realize that their dog has the “exact” same problem as the dog on the show. They may try a couple of the techniques (and with little success), and then call a dog training school and enter into training. The only problem with this is you will often hear them say: “It’s going to cost how much? And take how long? I just saw John (T.V. trainer’s name changed to protect the innocent) do it in 15 minutes on T.V.!”
The fourth type is the client that enjoys working with their dog. They have lived through the puppy stage, the adolescence stage, and the problem stage and now they are ready to have fun! These clients are ready to take sports classes like flyball, agility or Rally, working classes like therapy dog training or Canine Good Citizen testing, and the like.
There is nothing wrong with any of these four types of clients. These are the clients that keep you in business. These are the clients that are calling you because they need help. These are the clients that can bring you endless repeat business and referrals. But you have to meet their expectations and their training goals and this is where your training philosophy is so important.
Training Philosophy of Denver Dog Works in Bullet Points
• Know Yourself, Know Your Dog.
• A balanced dog is in a state of harmony with Mother Nature—as a calm submissive pack follower who is fulfilled physically with exercise, psychologically with rules and boundaries and limitations and emotionally with affection from his owner.
• Teach my clients the highest level of connection between two species.
• In terms of philosophy, teach my clients to choose a dog that is appropriate for them and their family.
• Teach my clients to acknowledge some deeper reasons for getting a dog: are you imposing your own emotional needs on the dog—and missing what your dog actually needs as a result?
• Teach my client the difference between discipline and punishment and how to set rules and boundaries and limitations on their dog.
• Teach my client what goes on in the canine mind and develop a stronger, more fulfilling relationship with their best friend and give back to their dog just a fraction of the many gifts he has given to you.
We Have the Best and Train the Rest
Our training philosophy at Denver Dog Works is not only a procedure but a lifestyle.
I have learned in the nineteen years of literally living with a pack of dogs and on the sled dog trail that it has offered me a unique perspective. There I was forced to examine my attitude about everything including my dogs. I was constantly challenged to become more open to the language dogs use to communicate with us. This experience confirms our deepest intuitions about the relationship of human beings not only with their dog but every aspect of their lives.
I hope to foster my clients with a diverse and varied understanding of the environment for which they live. I hope to foster a more realistic understanding of their dogs and an increased awareness of the benefits of their companionship.
Drawing on my experience as a kennel owner of 50 Siberian Huskies I will teach my clients how dog training goes far beyond the elementary instruction of basic obedience; as it must encompass a whole new attitude and lifestyle with their dog. It must touch on the levels of a dog’s own life that are often ignored.
In conclusion, I will bring my client into the world of a dog musher, canine behaviorist, and father of three by using my experience as a lens through which they may broaden their understanding of their dog. The stage will then be set for a balanced, lasting relationship between them and their best friend.
If you have any questions or if you would like to have your dog be one of the best trained dogs in the world please give us a call at 303-578-9881 or contact us through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
_________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project in Colorado. Dr. Forto hosts a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, every Saturday. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
A lot is said about a training philosophy of a dog training school. Many times it is the first question that is asked when someone calls inquiring about bringing their dog to training. Philosophy means different things to different trainers but I assure you that if you don’t have a clear understanding of what yours is, you will lose customers.
Many people searching for dog training fall into four categories and we will discuss those with regards to your training philosophy and see if you and your training school are positioned correctly to meet the needs of your clients and their dog.
Three Types of Clients
The first type of client is the most common. It is the client whose dog has just destroyed the three thousand dollar leather couch and this is the last straw. They have put up with their dog’s “bad behavior” for too long and need help.
The second type is what I call the “big-box-store-rejects”. These are the clients that have attended a training class at a big box corporate training center and they just didn’t get their needs met. Think about it. Would you go to a doctor at a Wal-Mart? No. These training classes are great for socialization and basic manners but they are not equipped to fix behavioral problems.
The third type is “As Seen on TV” clients. These clients watch a dog training show on cable and realize that their dog has the “exact” same problem as the dog on the show. They may try a couple of the techniques (and with little success), and then call a dog training school and enter into training. The only problem with this is you will often hear them say: “It’s going to cost how much? And take how long? I just saw John (T.V. trainer’s name changed to protect the innocent) do it in 15 minutes on T.V.!”
The fourth type is the client that enjoys working with their dog. They have lived through the puppy stage, the adolescence stage, and the problem stage and now they are ready to have fun! These clients are ready to take sports classes like flyball, agility or Rally, working classes like therapy dog training or Canine Good Citizen testing, and the like.
There is nothing wrong with any of these four types of clients. These are the clients that keep you in business. These are the clients that are calling you because they need help. These are the clients that can bring you endless repeat business and referrals. But you have to meet their expectations and their training goals and this is where your training philosophy is so important.
Training Philosophy of Denver Dog Works in Bullet Points
• Know Yourself, Know Your Dog.
• A balanced dog is in a state of harmony with Mother Nature—as a calm submissive pack follower who is fulfilled physically with exercise, psychologically with rules and boundaries and limitations and emotionally with affection from his owner.
• Teach my clients the highest level of connection between two species.
• In terms of philosophy, teach my clients to choose a dog that is appropriate for them and their family.
• Teach my clients to acknowledge some deeper reasons for getting a dog: are you imposing your own emotional needs on the dog—and missing what your dog actually needs as a result?
• Teach my client the difference between discipline and punishment and how to set rules and boundaries and limitations on their dog.
• Teach my client what goes on in the canine mind and develop a stronger, more fulfilling relationship with their best friend and give back to their dog just a fraction of the many gifts he has given to you.
We Have the Best and Train the Rest
Our training philosophy at Denver Dog Works is not only a procedure but a lifestyle.
I have learned in the nineteen years of literally living with a pack of dogs and on the sled dog trail that it has offered me a unique perspective. There I was forced to examine my attitude about everything including my dogs. I was constantly challenged to become more open to the language dogs use to communicate with us. This experience confirms our deepest intuitions about the relationship of human beings not only with their dog but every aspect of their lives.
I hope to foster my clients with a diverse and varied understanding of the environment for which they live. I hope to foster a more realistic understanding of their dogs and an increased awareness of the benefits of their companionship.
Drawing on my experience as a kennel owner of 50 Siberian Huskies I will teach my clients how dog training goes far beyond the elementary instruction of basic obedience; as it must encompass a whole new attitude and lifestyle with their dog. It must touch on the levels of a dog’s own life that are often ignored.
In conclusion, I will bring my client into the world of a dog musher, canine behaviorist, and father of three by using my experience as a lens through which they may broaden their understanding of their dog. The stage will then be set for a balanced, lasting relationship between them and their best friend.
If you have any questions or if you would like to have your dog be one of the best trained dogs in the world please give us a call at 303-578-9881 or contact us through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
_________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project in Colorado. Dr. Forto hosts a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, every Saturday. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Understanding Drive Behavior
Understanding Drive Behavior
By Robert Forto, PhD
Understanding Drive Behavior in Dogs
Instinctive behaviors, those our dogs have inherited from their ancestors and that are useful in the training process, can be grouped into three categories-Prey, Pack and Defense-collectively called Drives. Each one of these is governed by a basic trait. Every dog is an individual who comes into the world with a specific grouping of genetically inherited, predetermined behaviors. How those behaviors are arranged, their intensity and how many component parts of each drive the dog has will determine temperament, personality, suitability for the task required and how the dog perceives the world.
Behaviors in Each Drive
Prey Drive includes those inherited behaviors associated with hunting, killing and feeding on prey. It is activated by motion, sound and smell. Behaviors associated with prey drive are seeing, hearing, scenting, tracking, stalking, chasing, pouncing, high-pitched barking, jumping up, biting, killing, pulling down, shaking, tearing and ripping apart, carrying, eating, digging and burying.
You see these behaviors when a dog is chasing a cat or gets excited and barks in a high-pitched tone as the cat runs up a tree. Your dog may also shake and rip apart soft toys and bury dog biscuits in the couch.
Pack Drive consists of behaviors associated with being part of a pack, including reproduction. Our dogs are social animals that evolved from the wolf. To hunt prey mostly larger than themselves, wolves have to live in a pack, which means adhering to a social hierarchy governed by strict rules of behavior to assure order. An ability to be part of a group and fit in is important, and in the dog translates itself into a willingness to work with humans as part of a team.
Pack Drive is stimulated by rank order in the social hierarchy. Physical contact, playing and behaviors associated with social interaction with another dog, such as reading body language, and reproductive behaviors such as licking, mounting, washing ears and all courting gestures are part of pack drive. The ability to breed and to be a good parent is also part of the pack drive.
A dog with many of these behaviors is one that follows you around the house, is happiest with you, loves to be petted and groomed and likes to work with you. The dog may be unhappy when left alone, which can express itself as separation anxiety.
Defense Drive is governed by survival and self-preservation and consists of both Fight and Flight behaviors. It is more complex because the same stimulus that can make a dog aggressive (Fight) can also elicit avoidance (Flight) behaviors, especially in the young dog.
Fight behaviors tend to not be fully developed until the dog is over two years of age, although tendencies toward these behaviors will be seen at an earlier age. They can be observed in Bully, the dog that “stands tall,” stares at other dogs and likes to “strut his stuff.” Bully will stand his ground or go toward unfamiliar things, guard his food, toys or territory from other dogs or people and make dislike being petted or groomed. Bully is the one that will lie in front of doorways or cupboards, and his owner walks around Bully because he would not move on his own. These are all Defense Drive (Fight) behaviors.
Flight behaviors demonstrate that the dog is unsure. Hackles that go up the full length of the body-not just the neck-hiding or running away from a new situation, a dislike of being touched by strangers or general lack of confidence are all Flight behaviors. Freezing (not going forward or backward) can be interpreted as inhibited Flight behavior.
Personality Profile for Dogs
To help us understand how to approach each individual dog’s training, we cataloged ten behaviors in each Drive that influences the dog’s responses useful to us in training, and created the Personality Profile. The ten behaviors chosen are those that most closely represent the strengths of the dog in each of the Drives. The Profile does not pretend to include all behaviors seen in a dog nor the complexity of their interaction.
The results of the profile, will tell you about your dogs drives, this will in turn give you a good starting point for tailoring a training program to your dog’s needs. You can then make the use of the dog’s strengths, avoiding needless confusion and greatly reduce the time it takes to train the dog.
Evaluating the Profile
When completing the profile, keep in mind that it was devised from a house dog or pet with an enriched environment, perhaps even a little training, and not a dog tied out in the back yard, or kept solely in a kennel. Such dogs have fewer opportunities to express as many behaviors as a house dog.
Answers should indicate those behaviors your dog would exhibit if he had not already been trained to do otherwise. For example, did he jump on people or the counter to steal food before he was trained not to do so? Other behaviors are, in turn, only seen in a training context (for example during distraction training).
The Fight part of the Defense Drive does not fully express itself until the dog is mature, around two to four years of age, depending on the breed, although tendencies toward those behaviors may be seen earlier. Young dogs tend to exhibit more Flight behaviors than older dogs.
Of course this is just an introduction to the subject of Drive behaviors in dogs. At Denver Dog Works we use a balanced/natural approach to dog training. This is different than most of the big-box-corporate –store-training schools that so many are used to. In the balanced/natural method we spend a lot of time with the client and their dog before we even start training. We conduct a complete evaluation of the dog. In this evaluation we compile a complete history, give the dog the temperament/personality profile, figure out what the training goals are for the handler/owner and write down (realistic) expectations. We then tailor a training program to the individual dog, not some cookie cutter training program where every dog is trained the same way. We are so confident in our evaluation process that it is considered “intellectual property” by the State of Colorado.
If you would like to have your dog one of the best trained dogs in the world or if you would just like to talk about any of our programs please give Denver Dog Works a call at 303-578-9881 or send us an email at train@denverdogworks.com
Citation: Jack Volhard’s Personality Profile for Dogs
___________________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project. Dr. Forto is the host of a weekly program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show, every Saturday. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
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