Next Classes Start SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

Animal Behaviour Apprenticeship - 1 

- Canine Biology 101: Dog evolution, the function of dog senses, dog biological development, dog psychological development and critical periods of development, canine ethogram, behavioural observation. 

Book: Barbara Handelmen, Canine Behavior - A Photo Illustrated Handbook (mandatory)

- Learning Theories: Behaviourism: operant and classical conditioning, practical application in dog training of operant and classical conditioning, applied social cognitive theory model in animal training, various psychological models of development that influence learning and training. Homework: train new behaviour. 

Book: course pack 

- Beginner Training: You will learn to train multiple dog temperaments and characters and how to use a clicker versus other tools. The exercises are similar, yet you will learn how to adapt the dog's learning to your training. 

- Training Tools: A look at dog training tools, their use and function in behaviour modification and training. When and why use collars, leashes, harnesses, service vests, specialty gear, clickers, whistles, tactile bridges, or signs—a practical application of training methods and techniques. 

Book: course pack

- Behaviour Modification: What is behaviour modification, how does it work, what natural alternatives to behaviour modification are, and what are the most common behaviour problems? Lastly, you will create and apply a behaviour modification protocol for a particular case. 

Book: Dr. Karen Overall, Clinical Behavioral Medicine for Small Animals (optional)

- Healthcare & Nutrition: A summary of canine nutrition, vaccination protocols, common internal and external parasites, common chronic diseases, how to evaluate emergencies, and treating minor cuts and soars. 

Book: course pack 

- Homework: Training a new behaviour. You will create and submit a training plan. You will train a multitude of dogs with different temperaments.

- Teaching Methodology: I present the Animal Behaviour Apprenticeship in class with PowerPoint Presentations (.ppp). We will watch videos of group exercises and conduct ABCs. Overall the program is intended to develop the students applied animal training knowledge and intervention skills. I designed the course content to address all three VAK learning styles (visual, auditory, and kinetic).