There are different types of trainers and different methods and different reasons for the types of training used. Some trainers stick to old methods of using different tools and aversive methods that can instill fear into a dog. While this may have been the old way of training, it's been replaced by positive reinforcement, redirecting behaviors and rewards. Why? Because science has shown it works and it's also more humane. In fact, it may surprise some people to know that the old school ways can actually worsen certain behavior problems by putting undue stress on dogs. Dog training isn't just teaching your dog a few new tricks, dog trainers who have the education behind them understand that dog behavior and training is a science. Do it right and you'll understand why. Do it wrong and you can be putting yourself and your dog in unnecessary danger.
Types of Training
Obedience Training
Sure it seems simple. Teaching your dog to sit, stay, come, do tricks. Obedience training becomes more than just teaching tricks when you realize that any positive behaviors you teach your dog are behaviors he will keep in his repertoire and use when he wants something, which is unarguably better than barking, chewing, growling or any number of other undesirable behaviors a dog can use to get what he wants. He learns to earn and learns that nothing comes without asking nicely. Not only does obedience help build a better mannered dog but it also builds a relationship with your dog and helps to establish your dog's role in your home.
Problem Solving
Trainers are often called in for dogs who were not given a foundation for good behavior with obedience training and whose healthy relationship with his owner was never established. It's often needed when a dog is not given proper outlets for his energy as well and sometimes simply when the problem is housebreaking and the owners don't understand how to communicate the message to their dog. Problem solving applies to any behavior a dog normally does when he does not have the tools to do otherwise. These include: chewing, barking, nipping, hyperactivity, destructive behavior, housebreaking, and a few others.
Behavior Modification
This is a category best left to trainers experienced in more serious behavior issues and often it is necessary to call upon the services of a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist or Veterinary Behaviorist to discuss not only behavior modification but occasionally the use of medications to help facilitate behavior modification techniques. Behavior modification is based in science and methods for training take a scientific approach to dog behavior. A behaviorist should be consulted when a pet's behavior goes beyond basic training. Behaviors that CAAB's are usually called in for are those such as aggression and behaviors based in fear and anxiety for example. It is crucial that owners not attempt to manage these behaviors on their own or without the help of a professional experienced in this field as the wrong methods can often exacerbate or worsen the problem and decrease a dog's chance to succeed. Sadly, many dogs that fall into this category are given up or euthanized when they could have been helped by the right professional.
Do-it-Yourself Training
As with most things, there are trained professionals who have obtained the schooling and education needed to succeed in their field. Dog training, problem solving and behavior modification are areas of knowledge that, if done wrong contribute to the detriment and sometimes fate of the animal. Don't lessen your dog's chances of success. Call a professional when you need help with your pet. They do, afterall speak a different language and trainers are here to help translate and improve the communication and understanding between you and your dog. Why he does what he does may not actually mean what you think it does.
For information on where to find a Certified Dog Trainer, Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist or Veterinary Behaviorist visit the link below:
http://www.thesuburbanpet.com/behavioralrefs.html
Sit and stay posted for more!
~Rebecca
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