I'd be very interested to know why this behaviour was allowed to become the problem it clearly has become. It is very common for behaviours we allow as puppies because we think they are cute or endearing can become bigger issues later in the dogs life that then take time to sort out. Dog owners don't tend to think of the consequences of what they allow their dogs to do. If you set the correct standards as a puppy, you will get a well behaved dog as an adult.

Nothing is perfect when you are dealing with another species, we are all just trying to do the very best with our natural talents.

I think most on here are already doing what you yourself do . Without relationship and bond building, training is doomed to failure. The only possible difference is that treats plus fuss and play is the preferred option by most here.

Treats alone are not as effective as treats and fuss and I think most understand intervening at the first hint of attention being given rather than waiting for the unwanted behaviour to be in full flow.

Are you allowed to talk about the new show? If so, I just wondered what sort of 'angle' will be used to boost the ratings. One show (which most here disapprove of) has been mentioned, but there's also the boot camp style of Dog Borstal and the new one that's just hit the screen, the glamour puss approach, the rescue dog/celeb combination approach etc. Just wondering how your new show will be 'different' to capture the ratings. Is it going to be a one series type thing, or is it likely to be ongoing?

Sorry just curious (read as extremely nosey )

If you never ask a question, you will never get an answer. I think the difference here is I work the way I have described with any dog whatever the problem, even dogs classified as dangerous and from my perspective the programme will show difficult dogs learning new behaviours without food or compulsion and will explain and show just how these behaviours are developed by us, the owners. It is this angle that has never been covered before.

My dog has two issues, dog aggression and people aggression. I'm sceptical that simple praise would be enough to overcome either problem

Using treats has taught my dog that visitors in the house are a good thing. I don't think it's bribery, it's positive association.

Equally, I am trying to train a reliable recall so he can go off lead. When emotions kick in and he has the urge to run at another dog, I am also sceptical that a mere pat on the head would be enough to overcome his desire to dash at the dog. Pepperoni on the other hand helps

I'd be interested how you would tackle these two issues? Would you never use treats?

My dog and I have a very good relationship. During training sessions without things he finds stressful (dogs/strangers) he is very eager to please. However when he gets aggressive he seems to go onto another plane and it takes more than praise to break through that. Do you think that even emotional behavioural issues can be dealt with without treats?

P.s. I do take offence at your accusation that I (as the owner) am responsible for my dogs behavioural issues....

Should be an interesting watch . Let us know when it's on.

I think you'd be surprised how many trainers work in a similar way (even with those 'classified dangerous' dogs) with the possible addition of food in the mix.

As food as well as interaction is highly valued by the dog, I know I, for one, prefer to use all the 'ammunition' at my disposal to get results, but that's not to say that interaction alone won't work because, of course, with correct timing, it can.

Good luck with the show.

As an "expert behaviourist" what qualifications do you hold? As you know the term " behaviourist" is not, unfortunately, protected.

Is there a particular reason that, as a behaviourist, you do not belong to the APBC, CAPBT, UKRCB?

I am also curious as to why your club is not affiliated either to BAGSD or GSDL as you are training people in Schutzhund?

How many dogs have you qualified to SchH 3 standard?

I would also be interested to know what qualifications you have as a dog training instructor.

Obviously before engaging any professional, clients would want to ascertain the credentials of such a provider.

Oh dear---just done the quiz on your website and my dogs are probably in charge of me LOL.

rune

Agree with this, Storm was well socialised and trained, from 9 weeks onward, still, he developed omlead reactivity. Hes improved a lot with simple counter conditioning, though he does still have the odd blip. When he really gets wound up, a pat on the head and good boy just doesn't cut it, doesn't matter how calm I am either.

Playing find the treats has helped a lot.

Gosh your dogs must be different than mine then! My dog doesn't think my attention or being fussed is the best reward On the other hand I can recall him when he is in full flight after bunnies on the heath and he will stop dead and come charging back at the same speed for a treat. He is a terrier by the way so not a bad party trick!