WebCanine.com

Finding Help for a Pet with a Behavioral Problem

It is extremely important for pet owners to report any change in an animal’s behavior to a veterinarian before starting a behavior modification program. Behavioral signs may be the first or only indication that an animal has an underlying health problem. Continue Reading »

The AVSAB’s position is that punishment (e.g. choke chains, pinch collars, and electronic collars) should not be used as a first-line or early-use treatment for behavior problems. This is due to the potential adverse effects which include but are not limited to: inhibition of learning, increased fear-related and aggressive behaviors, and injury to animals and people interacting with animals.
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American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior
Position Statement on Adverse effects of Punishment

http://www.avsabonline.org/avsabonline/index.php?option=content&task=view&id=118

Adverse Effects of Punishment

Punishment can be effective in specific cases, but it must be used carefully due to the difficulties of performing it properly compared to positive reinforcement and due to its potential adverse effects. The following is a description of the difficulties and adverse effects that one should be aware of when using punishment (aversives). Continue Reading »

(Thanks to Christy Hill for this great post on how to select a good dog. Her post was specifically in regard to service dogs; but is so applicable to all areas of dog training and behavior that we have re-posted it here.) Continue Reading »

Excerpts: Dogs have been used successfully for years by military and law enforcement. Dogs and their handlers are the most widely used, accurate, durable and flexible system available for detecting illegal drugs and explosives. A critical aspect of canine performance is their effective duty cycle.

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ORLANDO, Fla. Under the watchful eye of their trainer, two diminutive beagles are working their way past suitcases randomly laced with beef, pork, apples, citrus and mangoes. Continue Reading »

The building search is one of the most important functions performed by the patrol dog. The dog is performing the search under conditions that are very dangerous for the handler and is extremely dangerous for non canine personnel. Continue Reading »