If you’re a dog parent is the case, then you need to know that responsible dog ownership, positive training and a more understanding of your dog’s needs can make a huge difference in the protection for the dog in your family.
We spoke to Paramita Das who is a dog trainer and behaviorist in Kolkata for a discussion on how to tackle problems with dog behavior and the growing opportunities in the dog training bangkok area of dog training and canine behavior.
Edugraph: What exactly is the role of the dog behaviorist?
Paramita Das: Dog behaviorists work with pet owners to help them understand the behavioral issues that affect their dogs. They also implement a programme to help address and manage problems like these. To achieve this, these professionals analyze the behaviors of dogs, study the interactions with their dogs, and interpret and observe the body language of dogs in different situations.
How did you become involved in this field?
PD: Having spent more than two decades working in working in the corporate world I was determined to pursue my passion of dealing with dog owners. I realized that in addition to my love for dogs, it’s crucial to try and understand the breed better since they are a completely different species from humans.
After I had completed my first canine trainer’s training course, I decided to help pet parents train their dogs using positive and kinder methods. My aim was to ensure that both they and their canine family members can have an enjoyable life. After that, I went on to study courses on aggression and canine behavior and aggression.
What are your typical tasks in this profession?
PD: My daily activities consist of teaching young puppies as well as adult dogs to be great pet companions, teaching dogs to play and have fun and working with families who are facing behavior issues with their dogs. I also deal with chewing and destructive behaviour problems, separation anxiety, toilet training, fear issues, aggression and leash walking issues.
What’s the most common challenge that you’re confronted with?
PD: While the majority of humans think that dogs are the problem, a lot of the issues stem from those who own pets. There is a lack of understanding of why dogs behave in the way they do and how we might have contributed to this behavior. In the present hectic and hectic pace of life, our time or patience is a bit low. That’s one of the biggest difficulties. Once the family members are invested in taking care of the pets they love in a structured manner, things will go more smoothly.
Can you describe the procedures you employ when working with dogs that have behaviour issues?
PD: I mostly follow techniques to help the pet family understand the reasons that their dog has behaviour problems. It’s essential to let the entire family participate in obedience training to ensure they can ensure that their dog obeys in various situations and in a manner that is acceptable. Pet owners should be able to exert some control on their dog’s behavior an appropriate way. My responsibility is to develop a programme to strengthen the bond between pets and their families.
What are some common mistakes pet owners make while interacting with their pets?
Many pet owners treat their dogs like a human being or a toy. A dog is a living thing — an entirely different species. Human beings are primates, but dogs are canids. Although dogs are our best friends, some dog owners must recognize that they belong to another species. It is therefore crucial that they understand the dog’s species. Families must be knowledgeable about the breed of their dog and use that information in a positive manner.
What advice would you offer to someone who is to bring your puppy to their home?
PD: Know that your dog is different species and be prepared to put in a lot of time and effort. Learn more about your dog –instill a positive behavior, take it for walks, play games with him/her and be an active participant in the activities your dog enjoys.
Prepare for financial commitments such as vet costs, expenses in the event that your dog is sick grooming fees as well as boarding fees during your absence and relocation costs. Also, you should put a support system to be in place in the event of any emergencies.
Overall, I think you need to be prepared for a long-term commitment of 12-14 years of raising up a dog. We are able to pursue our individual interests and hobbies but a dog’s reliance is on its human family to ensure a happy life. So, let’s not let your pet down with this.
What is your suggestion to those who are young and have pets?
PD: Take part with your dog’s daily routine. Make sure you are involved in the things that your dog truly enjoys. If you own Labradors, go to the pool. If you have a Beagle or Indie you can take them for scent-based games at the park. Spend moments with your dog in order to create a strong relationship. The time you spend together is the most important thing.
What would be the academic and professional routes to take if someone would like to become a dog behaviorist and trainer?
The PD: There are classes that you can take in order to obtain the knowledge and experience required to become a professional dog behaviorist. I’ve taken classes taught by Shirin Merchant who is one of those pioneering in the field of dog behavior and instruction in India. I have also completed courses with John Rogerson, who is a world-renowned canine trainer and behaviorist. They both Shirin and John utilize gentle and positive training methods that focus on establishing a solid relationship between the dog and its family.
What are the different career paths that one could pursue while playing with pets?
PD: There are a lot of possibilities in this growing field. More and more people are aware of the necessity to bring animals to specialists today. Being a vet, groomer, trainer and behaviourist are a few of the most frequently used choices. You can also run the boarding center for dogs. Animal rescue or working in shelters is another option. If you are trained properly it is possible to become a pet nutritionist.
Leave a Reply