‘If only our dogs could talk’. They can. We just need to listen with our eyes rather than our ears.
If we look at the world from a dog’s perspective, we are far more likely to be able to understand the motivations behind their behaviour and the underlying factors that are contributing to some of the problematic behaviours we see.
Emotional Impact:
Fear and Anxiety: Imagine feeling scared or anxious. Dogs experience this too. Fear can lead to defensive behaviors, avoidance, or even aggression.
Frustration: Picture being stuck in traffic or waiting in a long queue. Frustration builds up. Dogs feel it too—when they can’t reach that squirrel or when the treat dispenser is just out of reach.
Discomfort from Pain or Illness: Imagine having a headache or a sore muscle. Dogs can’t tell us directly, but pain affects their behaviour. It might make them irritable, restless, or less motivated to engage.
Behavioural Impact:
Learning Challenges: When a dog feels overwhelmed, their ability to learn new behaviours diminishes. It’s like trying to study when you’re feeling stressed, tired and with a headache - it’s tough!
Aggression Threshold: Fear or discomfort can lower a dog’s threshold for aggression. They might react defensively even in situations previously they have been fine in.
Attention and Focus: Imagine trying to concentrate with a toothache. Dogs in pain struggle to focus. Training becomes an uphill battle.
As responsible pet owners, it’s important to empathize with our dogs. By addressing their emotional and physical well-being, we set the stage for successful behaviour modification.
When assessing your dog’s behaviour, I will be looking at things from their perspective as well as from yours. My behaviour consultations are quite different to the usual behaviour consultations you may be familiar with. They take into consideration ALL aspects of both you and your dog’s day to day life. As a qualified Dynamic Dog Practitioner I have a deep understanding and knowledge of the dog’s inner structures and systems, which means I can identify how both emotional and physical health may be affecting your dog’s behaviour.
Canine Perspective:
Behaviour: Understanding your dog’s actions, reactions, and communication cues.
Physical Well-Being: Assessing their comfort, pain, and overall health.
Emotional State: Recognizing fear, anxiety, joy, or frustration.
Human Perspective:
Lifestyle: How your daily routines and activities impact your dog.
Nutrition: What they eat and how it affects behaviour.
Exercise and Play: Frequency, type, and quality of physical activity.
Sleep Patterns: Restful sleep contributes to overall well-being.
Walking Equipment: The equipment you use during walks matters.
Interaction Styles: How you engage with your dog—play, training, and bonding.
Understanding the intricate interplay between a dog’s emotional and physical well-being is crucial. It’s like solving a puzzle where each piece affects the whole picture. By conducting a thorough assessment, we are not only addressing the behaviour but also nurturing your dog’s overall physical and mental well-being.
What should you expect on top of a standard behaviour assessment?
Deep Dive - All about your dog
This may be carried out in person or on Zoom depending on your location. Lasting approximately 90 mins we take a look at what life is like for you and your dog. Be warned I want to know EVERYTHING!
Data Gathering
We will gather and collate the information needed, which will also include photos and videos of your dog engaging in various activities of daily life, so we can assess any physical issues. I will provide you with clear guidelines and support on how to carry this out.
Evidence Analysis
I then spend 48 hours going over all the data and information you have provided in the consult, so I can build the full picture of what is going on for your dog.
Report explanation
Zoom call with me, where the findings of the report are discussed and explained thoroughly to you.
Veterinary Report & Liaison
I then construct a comprehensive veterinary report along with corresponding evidence which will be relayed to you Vet. I can then liaise with them about our findings to ensure that any potential underlying health issues that have been identified are diagnosed and supported, so that they lessen the impact on your dog’s behaviour.
Behaviour Management Plan
A plan will be provided to help you manage your dog’s behaviour whilst additional veterinary support is sought. Full support will be provided throughout the duration of the Dynamic Dog Assessment. In some cases a behaviour modification programme with additional training and longer term support may be more appropriate, which can be discussed.
Book a FREE 15 minute chat over the telephone before you commit to booking a consultation. This will help me gain an understanding of the problematic behaviours you are experiencing, so I can decide which option is most suitable for you
Option 1: £185
90-minute remote video consultation
Full Dynamic Dog Assessment
Veterinary Report & Liaison
Behaviour Management Plan
Report explanation Zoom call
Full support for the duration of the Dynamic Dog Assessment process
Option 2: £325
90-minute remote video consultation
Full Dynamic Dog Assessment
Veterinary Report & Liaison
Behaviour Modification Plan along with relevant training handouts and resources
Report explanation Zoom call
1 hour follow-up session (remote or in-person depending on location)
Email and telephone support for up to 2 months following the date of the initial consultation
