Inviting a dog into your home is one of the most rewarding things you can do in your life. These furry companions can bring so much happiness, affection and protection into your home. However, most dogs benefit greatly from some form of professional dog training, especially if it’s to weed out behavioural issues. Whether it’s excessive barking or more serious issues like aggression, professional dog training can instil the right behaviours in your pet and promote a harmonious relationship between you and your dog. So, in this article, we will look at the benefits of professional dog training and how it can help create a more well-adjusted pet that is both happy and sociable.
What Causes Behavioural Problems in Dogs?
Understanding the root causes of behavioural issues in dogs is key to effective management and correction. By learning about what is causing these problems, professional trainers can better tailor their training to address the root problem. Several factors contribute to these challenges, ranging from genetic predispositions to environmental influences. Here’s a closer look at some of the primary causes:
Genetics
Just like humans, dogs inherit traits from their parents that can influence their temperament and behaviour. Certain breeds may be predisposed to specific behavioural traits such as high energy levels, aggression, or shyness. Recognising these genetic tendencies can help in tailoring training approaches that address and manage these inherent behaviours effectively.
Early Socialisation and Experiences
The experiences a dog has during its critical formative weeks can significantly impact its behaviour later in life. Puppies that are not adequately socialised might grow up to be fearful or aggressive toward unfamiliar people, animals, or environments. Similarly, negative experiences, such as abuse or neglect, can lead to long-lasting behavioural issues.
Lack of Training
Behavioural problems often stem from a lack of proper training and boundaries. Without clear guidance and consistent rules, dogs can develop undesirable habits, such as jumping on guests or refusing to respond to basic commands. Proper training helps establish communication and leadership, teaching the dog expected behaviours within the household and in public settings.
Anxiety and Fear
Fear and anxiety are common triggers for many behavioural issues in dogs, including aggression, destruction behaviour in dogs, and vocalisation. These emotions can be caused by a variety of factors such as loud noises (thunder, fireworks), changes in the environment, new people or animals, or traumatic events. Addressing the underlying anxiety, often through desensitisation and counter-conditioning techniques, is key to resolving these behaviours.
Boredom and Lack of Stimulation
Dogs are naturally active and intelligent creatures requiring regular physical and mental stimulation. Without adequate exercise and enrichment, they can develop destructive behaviours as a way to alleviate boredom and expend pent-up energy. Dog owners must ensure their pets receive sufficient playtime, walks, and interactive activities to keep them engaged.
Health Issues
Sometimes, what appears to be a behavioural issue is actually a sign of an underlying health problem. Conditions such as thyroid dysfunction, pain, or neurological disorders can influence a dog’s behaviour. Pet owners need to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any medical causes before attributing behavioural changes to training or personality issues.
By addressing these factors through appropriate training, socialisation, medical care, and lifestyle adjustments, many behavioural problems in dogs can be significantly improved or entirely resolved. Understanding these causes helps in developing more effective, humane, and tailored interventions to enhance the well-being of both dogs and their owners.
Behavioural Issues Dog Training Helps With
Professional dog training can be particularly effective in addressing a range of behavioural issues that may affect dogs. Below are some common problems that such training helps to manage:
Aggression
Aggression can manifest towards other dogs, strangers, or even family members. Trainers use specific techniques to address and mitigate aggressive behaviours, focusing on the triggers and the dog’s responses to them. This might involve controlled exposure to the triggers along with positive reinforcement to promote non-aggressive behaviours.
Barking and Howling
Excessive barking or howling is often a sign of anxiety, boredom, or a need for attention. Professional trainers like our team at TOTALK9 can teach dogs more appropriate ways to communicate or handle their emotions. Training can also include exercises to keep the dog mentally and physically stimulated, thus reducing unwanted vocalisations.
Chewing and Destructive Behaviour
Destructive behaviours like chewing furniture or digging are common in dogs that are not adequately stimulated or that suffer from separation anxiety. Our experts at TOTALK9 can introduce activities that redirect these impulses into more acceptable outlets and work on alleviating the anxiety driving such behaviours.
Jumping Up
Dogs often jump up on people as a greeting or to seek attention. While this might seem harmless, it can be dangerous or unwelcome. Our trainers teach dogs how to greet people appropriately without jumping, using commands and reinforcing calm behaviours.
Leash Pulling
Walking a dog that constantly pulls can be frustrating and even dangerous. Professional training can help teach a dog leash manners and how to walk calmly beside their owner, making walks more enjoyable and safe for both.
Separation Anxiety
Dogs with separation anxiety may exhibit distress and destructive behaviours when left alone. Trainers can work with these dogs to gradually acclimate them to being alone for longer periods, using techniques that reduce their anxiety and promote a sense of security.
Toilet Training Issues
Improper elimination is a common issue, particularly in younger dogs or in older dogs adjusting to new environments. Trainers can help establish routines and use reinforcement techniques that encourage dogs to relieve themselves in designated areas.
By addressing these and other behavioural issues, professional dog training not only improves the quality of life for the dogs themselves but also enhances their relationships with their families and communities.
The Techniques Used in Professional Dog Training
Professional dog trainers employ a variety of techniques to address and correct behavioural problems in dogs. These techniques are grounded in the principles of animal learning and behaviour modification. Here’s a deeper look at some of the most effective methods used in professional dog training:
Positive Reinforcement
One of the most popular and effective training methods is positive reinforcement, where dogs are rewarded for good behaviour. Rewards can include treats, praise, petting, or anything else the dog finds enjoyable. This technique reinforces desired behaviours, making it more likely for the dog to repeat them. It builds a positive relationship between the dog and the trainer, based on trust and mutual respect.
Clicker Training
Clicker training is a form of positive reinforcement that uses a clicker, a small handheld device that makes a clicking sound, to mark the exact moment a dog performs the desired behaviour. Following the click, the dog receives a treat. This method helps the dog associate the sound with having done something correctly, allowing for precise training at the exact moment the correct behaviour occurs.
Obedience Training
This foundational training teaches dogs basic commands such as ‘sit’, ‘stay’, ‘come’, ‘heel’, and ‘down’. Obedience training is essential for safety and can help in managing behaviours such as jumping, barking, and leash pulling. It provides a framework for ongoing training and behaviour management strategies.
Socialisation Training
Socialisation involves exposing the dog to a variety of experiences, including different people, animals, environments, and noises in a controlled manner. Proper socialisation can prevent the development of fear and aggression, making dogs more confident and well-adjusted in various settings.
Behaviour Adjustment Training (BAT)
BAT is designed for rehabilitating dogs with issues like aggression, fearfulness, or reactivity towards other dogs and people. This technique uses environmental changes and rewards to teach the dog more acceptable behaviour. BAT helps dogs make better choices in social situations, promoting calmness and reducing stress.
Counterconditioning and Desensitisation
These techniques are used to change a dog’s emotional response to a stimulus (such as another dog, a person, or a noise) that currently causes fear or aggression. Desensitisation involves the gradual introduction of the stimulus at a low intensity so it doesn’t trigger a negative reaction, while counterconditioning involves associating the stimulus with positive outcomes like treats or play.
Relationship-Based Training
This method focuses on building a positive relationship between the dog and the owner. It involves understanding the dog’s needs and learning cues, empathetic handling, and mutual respect. This approach emphasises the bond as the basis for behaviour, encouraging dogs to learn to manage their impulses and cooperate through a strong, trust-based relationship.
By applying these techniques, professional dog trainers can address a wide range of behavioural issues, from basic obedience and social skills to complex behavioural problems. Each dog’s training plan is often customised based on the dog’s individual needs, history, personality, and the goals of the household.
Common Dog Breeds That Benefit from Professional Dog Training
While all dogs can benefit from professional training, certain breeds, particularly those known for their strong personalities, high energy levels, or specific behavioural traits, might find professional training especially beneficial. Here are some common dog breeds that often thrive with the guidance of a professional dog trainer:
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are highly intelligent and capable working dogs that thrive on having a job to do. They are often used in police and military roles because of their discipline and versatility. However, without proper training and mental stimulation, they can develop undesirable behaviours such as excessive barking, chewing, and even aggression.
Border Collie
Known as one of the smartest dog breeds, Border Collies have an incredible amount of energy and an innate desire to herd. They excel in agility and competitive sports but can easily get bored if not mentally and physically stimulated. Professional training can help channel their energy productively and prevent behaviours like herding children or other pets.
Labrador Retriever
Labradors are friendly and sociable dogs, but they can be exuberant and may inadvertently knock over children or elderly people in their enthusiasm. Professional obedience training is essential to help them learn proper manners and harness their energy positively.
Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers are small but have energy levels that rival much larger dogs. They are intelligent, fearless, and have a propensity for mischief, often displaying behaviours such as digging and excessive barking. Our professional training at TOTALK9 can help manage these traits and provide them with outlets for their boundless energy.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers are powerful dogs with a strong guarding instinct, and they can be dominant without firm guidance and socialisation. Professional training can help ensure that they are well-adjusted and safe around other people and animals, respecting their owner’s leadership.
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are generally sweet and gentle but can suffer from anxiety and submissive urination. They benefit from gentle, consistent training that builds confidence and helps manage anxiety-related behaviours effectively.
Pit Bull Terrier
Pit Bull Terriers are often misunderstood but are incredibly loyal and loving dogs. They do well with training that focuses on socialisation and obedience, helping to combat the breed’s often undeserved reputation and highlighting their capability as affectionate, well-behaved pets.
Dalmatian
Dalmatians are highly energetic and need a lot of exercise, and without proper training, they can become hyperactive and hard to manage. They benefit from early socialisation and consistent, structured training to prevent the development of stubborn or destructive behaviours.
These breeds represent just a small selection of the many types of dogs that can benefit from professional dog training. Regardless of breed, training can help mitigate behavioural issues, enhance the dog’s social skills, and strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners, leading to a more harmonious home environment.
Help Your Canine Companion With Professional Dog Training
Investing in professional dog training can profoundly affect the quality of life for both your dog and your household. By addressing behavioural problems through expert guidance, owners can enjoy a more fulfilling and less stressful relationship with their pets. The skills and techniques imparted by a professional trainer equip dogs to navigate the complexities of human environments, leading to a safer, happier life for everyone involved.
If you would like to learn more about how professional dog training can help you and your dog, or if you’d like to book a consultation, please get in touch with our team at TOTALK9 today.
