If you’re wanting to help your dog with behaviour issues, it is important to find a behaviourist who is qualified and accredited with force free organisations. This choice is the difference between helping your dog’s behaviour, or potentially making it worse.
We have recently been made aware of a post on social media of a dog who is undergoing “behaviour modification”. The images clearly show a dog who is in fight or flight mode from being placed in a situation where they are severely uncomfortable. The methods used are aversive, unkind, unethical and damaging for the dog. It is also dangerous for the people involved.
What working with an ethical, force free behaviourist should look like:
Using rewards to help build up positive associations.Working within the limits your dog is comfortable with, and constantly checking their body language.Setting your dog up for success – such as setting a foundation to equip your dog with skills they can use when around their trigger BEFORE beginning behaviour modification around the trigger. Training is gradual and at your dogs paceUsing non-aversive methods such as flooding (placing your dog in a situation with their trigger, with no means of escape)