Animal Talk – July 2019

training

DOGTA LK

W

hen socialising and habituating your pup, care must be
taken to prevent one-event learning. This is when just
one bad experience can affect a dog for the rest of his life.
Therefore, all experiences that you expose the pup to during
socialisation and habituation must be positive. Do this by
pairing these experiences with yummy treats, and always make
sure that you don’t force pup into something he finds scary.
The job is not done once your dog is 16 weeks old. Keep on
socialising him for the rest of his life. If your puppy has not
received proper socialisation in the three- to 16-week time
period, it’s best to get the assistance of a qualified
behaviourist.
Noleen Fourie, behaviourist

Socialising puppy

What is important to remember about

socialising and habituating a puppy?

W

hen referring to training, the

implication is an approach and

methods that are based on scientific

evidence and principles; that don’t involve

force; that rely on the use of positive

reinforcement; and most importantly, that

consider the needs, abilities and emotional

state of the dog at all times.

The word ‘teaching’ is therefore preferable

to ‘training’. Training implies commands,

obedience and strict boundaries. Teaching

revolves around guidance, clear cues and kind

instruction that seeks improvement in the

teacher rather than the student when mistakes

are made. It’s a win-win situation. So training

your dog is important, but teaching your dog

would be a much better option for both of you.

Katherine Brown, behaviourist

Teaching vs

training

Is there a difference between

teaching and training a dog?

A happy dog is ...

... well behaved.