Which course?

I'm really considering doing a course in canine behaviour/psychology. I've been looking at what's available and it looks a bit of a mine-field out there, some don't appear to be worth the paper they are written on. The problem I've got is that I'm not sure how or if I would use any training I acquire. For now, it would be just to satisfy my need to learn. I've had a few years without study, though I've done plenty in the past (I'm a teacher) but this study would be for ME, not my job, not my career, just me.

So, I'd be really interested in any courses/qualifications you guys have done, how you found the course, what you got from it and if you could recommend it. I'm really looking forward to starting something. hope someone can point me in the right direction.

I'm going to see a woman from here - http://www.caninebehaviour.co.uk/
and depending how what I think of her and how she works with Bailey, they do some study ay home courses which look interesting

She has a list of behaviourists across the UK and it's been going for 11years - she certainly seemed knowlegable on the phone.

Like you I'm not sure if I'll use it for anything other than to advance my knowledge but I enjoy learning and I love learning about dogs - I've just qualified as an adult teacher too

I cannnot speak for the link posted as I can find no information about the person who runs this centre on their website or their qualifications etc.

If you want to study you need to have a clear idea about exactly WHAT you want, and its purpose.

There are plenty of providers out there.................

What precisely is it that you want to learn more about...........

Also look for accredited courses (ie recognised by those OTHER than the training provider)!

If you are going to spend a great deal of time and money on studying a course it makes sense that the course structure, material, marking and moderation meet recognised standards just like PTLLS, CTLLS and DTLLS etc.

So NOCN is one to look for in this field.

'A graduate member of the British Psychological Society and international affiliate member of the American Psychological Association, Deborah has worked as a canine consultant since 1990. In addition to running a hands-on practice, she also lectures on canine psychology to organisations throughout the UK as well as investigating further her own area of expertise: the match/mismatch of personalities in dog and owner'.

This is about the woman I'm off to see xx

All very interesting but what RELEVANT canine qualifications does she have and does she provide recognised certification?

Is she a member of CAPBT, UKRCB or APBC for example?

http://www.johnrogerson.com/2012coursesschedule.pdf

John does lots of courses and he is a KCAI in Working Trials and behaviour.

Do you want to do practical or theory or both?

distance learning or not?

Sounds as though we're in a similar boat. Will you let me know how you get on please.


I suppose that's the problem I've got, I'm not completely sure I'm leaning towards the psychology aspect. I don't consider myself a 'beginner' in the dog world, I've had dogs in my life for the last 45 years and had little successes in training my own dogs as well as those of family and friends. I've competed in obedience, agility and in the showring. However, I'd consider my knowledge to be generally broad and I would like to delve deeper into the 'whys and wherefores' of canine behaviour. The study I undertake won't necessarily have a purpose, I just love to learn and understand. I've been looking at courses offered by the British College of Canine Studies but I don't know how reputable they are. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

I'd like to do theory and practical. I was drawn to the British College of Canine Studies as they offer distance learning, combined with a 2 day practical assessment at Leicester. I work full-time so time is an issue but the practical days are offered at various times of the year so I'm thinking I could fit that in during the school hols.

You may like to look here:

http://www.coape.co.uk/courses.html

also here:

http://www.apdt.co.uk/thinkdogcourse.asp

Compass education also do courses. There is also:

http://www.apdt.co.uk/dog_training_events.asp
Not strictly courses, but a list of "events" that you might find interesting?

Good luck in whatever you choose

Wys
x

More:

http://cidbt.org.uk/fd/planner.htm