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THE DOG GUARDIAN APPROACH
Behaviour is rarely just about what we can see on the surface.
Rather than simply trying to stop a dog barking, lunging, growling, pulling or panicking, I want to understand what may be driving that response and what needs to change for the dog to behave differently.
My approach looks at four areas.
The Four Areas to a Dog's Well Being
1.
Needs
Behaviour can be affected by whether a dog's physical, emotional and social needs are being met.
This includes the obvious things such as food, rest, exercise and safety, but also confidence, belonging, appropriate stimulation and clarity within everyday life.
Understanding what a dog needs gives us a stronger foundation for changing behaviour.
2.
Language
Dogs communicate constantly through movement, posture, facial expression, distance and behaviour.
Learning to recognise this language helps us understand what the dog may be feeling before a situation escalates. It also allows us to communicate more clearly with them in return.
3.
Emotional State
A dog that feels calm and safe is able to make very different choices from a dog that feels frightened, overwhelmed, frustrated or highly aroused.
Part of changing behaviour is therefore helping the dog experience difficult situations differently and giving them opportunities to build confidence.
4.
Leadership
Leadership is not about dominating a dog. It is about giving the dog the type of guidance they need in that moment.
Sometimes that means nurturing and reassuring them. Sometimes it means protecting them from something they find difficult. At other times they may need calm authority or coaching so they understand how to behave.
The balance will be different for every dog.
EVERY DOG IS DIFFERENT
No two dogs experience the world in exactly the same way. Their personality, history, sensitivities, environment and previous experiences all influence how they behave.
That is why I do not believe one technique or one training philosophy can answer every behavioural problem. The aim is to understand the dog in front of us, remain open-minded about different approaches and adapt to what that individual responds to best.
These ideas are explored in much greater depth in Nigel's new book, I'll Protect You: Building Confidence in Nervous, Reactive and Aggressive Dogs.
NOT SURE WHERE TO START?
If you are unsure which option is right for you and your dog, speak with one of the team.
The Dog Guardian
Dog behaviour help from Nigel Reed - author, TV expert and behaviourist with more than twenty-five years of experience.
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