8:37am Wednesday 6th February 2008
Dog expert Howard Kirby writes: DOG psychology is not at all spooky or mystical - it is about understanding the instincts, needs and the way in which a dog views the world and how it deals with all the experiences that life throws at it.
If a dog gets a reward for a particular behaviour he will repeat the behaviour in an effort to gain the reward, which then serves to reinforce that action.
If, however, the dog gets no response or reward from a behaviour it is highly likely the dog will not continue to repeat the action.
For example, if your dog tips over the rubbish bin and finds a tasty titbit to eat he will most certainly repeat this behaviour.
If the bin were to only offer something unpleasant to the dog then the behaviour is less likely to be repeated.
It all sounds fairly straightforward doesn't it? Well it is really.
You just need to ensure that behaviours are discouraged or rewarded so the dog recognises which bit of behaviour is bringing the reward.
Timing is crucial, so a careful understanding of training methods and skills will need to be gained.
Trainers sometimes get praise or discipline timing wrong. This can lead to the dog mistakenly associating the wrong behaviour with the trainer's approval.
Fail to understand your dog, and you could end up being driven to distraction by the untamed beast in your living room.
Before you know it, you will be reaching for the phone to book an appointment with a psychiatrist for yourself.
Try a good dog trainer first.
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