Dog Psychology

dcg2341 · #1 11-14-2009, 10:42 PM

Hi,

I would want to extend my knowledge in the field of dog psychology in order to be a better trainer.

How deep can you dive into the subject?

Is there any recommended Books, DVDs, Websites, or even classes?

Is there any certification for dog psychologist?

Zoom · #2 11-15-2009, 12:29 AM

There is no such thing as a "dog psychologist", it's a made-up term marketed by Ceasar Milan.

However, there are plenty of courses in how to become a canine/animal behavioralist.

lizzybeth727 · #3 11-15-2009, 01:22 PM

I agree, anyone who calls himself a "dog psychologist" is most likely self-taught in what they think is dog communication and behavior. This can be very dangerous; while personal experience is extremely important when dealing with animals, it should go hand in hand with educating oneself in what other dog professionals are doing and techniques and studies that they are using in their practice.

Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists, on the other hand, have years of education and experience, are up do date on current studies, and take a much more scientific approach to studying dog behavior. They are also much more highly respected in the training industry.

bradny78 · #4 11-28-2009, 09:06 PM

the term dog psycology is not a made up term by any means. Numerous animal behaviorists have used this term for many years. there are many books that you can find that go into great detail on y dogs do what they do. as a trainer i do believe myself that before you learn how to train a animal how to do or not do something you should first realize what is the root of the behavior.

- Welcome to Good Dog, BRAD Dog!

Criosphynx · #5 11-29-2009, 02:59 PM

...says the dude promoting his website....

therottweiler · #6 12-01-2009, 09:43 PM

Being a dog psychologist just means you understand what your dog is thinking. From what I can tell, the more time you spend around your dog, you will get more familiar with what they are thinking.

lizzybeth727 · #7 12-01-2009, 11:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by therottweiler

Being a dog psychologist just means you understand what your dog is thinking. From what I can tell, the more time you spend around your dog, you will get more familiar with what they are thinking.

No, you will never know what your dog is thinking. None of us will ever know what our dogs are thinking. What we do know is what they are likely to do next, and we can use that information to infer what they are thinking; but we will never know for sure.

Shadow_Spitz · #8 12-02-2009, 04:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lizzybeth727

No, you will never know what your dog is thinking. None of us will ever know what our dogs are thinking. What we do know is what they are likely to do next, and we can use that information to infer what they are thinking; but we will never know for sure.

Thats the fun of training dogs!!! But yes I agree, we can only study their behavior and make an educated guess at what they are about to do and what we should do about it. (whether it be positive or negative). The most important thing a person looking to train dogs can do is not only familiarize oneself with the general behavior and body language of dogs, but also be able to assess the personality and learning mode of the dog right in front of them, this is what makes someone a good trainer.