Crucial Concepts in Dog Behavior & Training from Udemy

This online seminar consists of six hours of video lecture by renowned animal behaviorist and dog trainer, Dr. Ian Dunbar. It has been approved for 6 continued education credits by the IAABC & NADOI (CCPDT credits have been applied for).

This course contains a collection of concepts that range from common sense to cutting edge. The one thing they have in common is that they are all crucial for developing a solid understanding of dog training and behavior. This course is perfect for anyone that wants to understand how to raise a well-trained companion dog, or anyone that is interested in learning more about how to better train their current dog.

Much of the seminar deals with motivating your dog by making training into an enjoyable activity that functions as it's own reward, thereby eliminating the continued reliance on training tools and food lures.

Of course, dogs don't always do what we want, so much of this seminar also focuses on how to correct misbehavior. By redirecting our dogs to appropriate behaviors we not only stop them from misbehaving, we also ensure that they are doing the right thing, all without pain or fear.

Almost every dog will, at some point, develop a phobia or reactivity problem so it's also crucial that dog owners and trainers understand how to quickly and easily address these issues. Differential Classical Conditioning, the Jolly Routine and the use of Secondary Reinforcers can quickly resolve these problems.

Finally, Dr. Dunbar will explain an idea that should be common sense, but is becoming increasingly cutting edge in today's world of overly clinical and mechanical dog training. He will show you how to turn your voice into the most powerful tool in dog training.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Train a dog to motivated and reliable when off-leash, distracted, and/or at a distance, all without the continued need for any training aid.
Understand the five reward-based training techniques.
Reduce and eventually eliminate reliance upon training tools like leashes, collars, halters, harnesses and especially food as a lure and reward.
Motivate your dog using life rewards, interactive games and other behaviors and activities that your dog enjoys.
Quantify your dogs learning and use differential reinforcement to increase speed and precision.

Correct misbehavior using non-aversive punishments such as: specific redirection (sr), the dogcon system and repetitive reinstruction until compliance & repeat for immediate response following a single command (rrc&r).
Empower secondary reinforcers (e.g. kibble) with huge amounts of value.
Use differential classical conditioning (dcc) to train dogs to enjoy the presence of specific stimuli without inadvertently reinforcing reactivity.
Use the jolly routine to eliminate dog reactivity and aggression.
Use the most powerful tool in dog training: your voice!

Train a dog to motivated and reliable when off-leash, distracted, and/or at a distance, all without the continued need for any training aid.
Understand the five reward-based training techniques.
Reduce and eventually eliminate reliance upon training tools like leashes, collars, halters, harnesses and especially food as a lure and reward.
Motivate your dog using life rewards, interactive games and other behaviors and activities that your dog enjoys.
Quantify your dogs learning and use differential reinforcement to increase speed and precision.
Correct misbehavior using non-aversive punishments such as: specific redirection (sr), the dogcon system and repetitive reinstruction until compliance & repeat for immediate response following a single command (rrc&r).
Empower secondary reinforcers (e.g. kibble) with huge amounts of value.
Use differential classical conditioning (dcc) to train dogs to enjoy the presence of specific stimuli without inadvertently reinforcing reactivity.
Use the jolly routine to eliminate dog reactivity and aggression.
Use the most powerful tool in dog training: your voice!

Syllabus

Train a dog using effective and enjoyable dog training methods

Introduction

Video 2

Video 3

Video 4

Video 5

Video 6

Video 7

Video 8

Video 9

Video 10

Video 11

Video 12

Video 13

Video 14

Video 15

Video 16

Video 17

Video 18

Video 19

Video 20

Video 21

Video 22

Video 23

Video 24

Lecture Notes

Congratulations on Completing this Course

Free eBooks

BEFORE You Get Your Puppy - Free eBook

AFTER You Get Your Puppy - Free eBook

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Teaches the basics of dog training and behavior, suitable for aspiring or current dog owners

Emphasizes positive reinforcement and motivation to build a rewarding bond with your dog

Provides techniques for correcting misbehavior without the use of pain or fear

Covers the use of secondary reinforcers and differential classical conditioning to address phobias and reactivity issues

Instructed by Dr. Ian Dunbar, a renowned animal behaviorist and dog trainer, with a proven track record in the field

Approved for continuing education credits by multiple organizations, indicating the quality and relevance of the content

Reviews summary

Comprehensive dog behavior guide

Learners say this course provides comprehensive information on crucial concepts in dog behavior and training. One reviewer, an experienced dog trainer, remarked that the course was very helpful for brushing up on key principles.

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Crucial Concepts in Dog Behavior & Training with these activities:

Review: Before You Get Your Puppy

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Use this book as a refresher on puppy care to maximize common sense practices during puppy training.

View Barking Up the Right Tree on Amazon

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Read through the book completely.
Jot down the most important things to keep in mind.

Review: After You Get Your Puppy

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Review this book to follow up on what to consider after you bring home your new puppy.

View Barking Up the Right Tree on Amazon

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Review the book to familiarize yourself with the content.
Read the most important dog training tips and take notes.

Volunteer at a Local Animal Shelter

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Gain valuable hands-on experience and give back to the community by volunteering at an animal shelter.

Browse courses on Volunteering

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Find a local animal shelter that accepts volunteers.
Complete the volunteer application and training.
Attend volunteer shifts regularly.

Seven other activities

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Show all ten activities

Learn How to Use a Clicker

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Improve your understanding of how to use positive reinforcement to train your dog effectively.

Browse courses on Positive Reinforcement

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Find a comprehensive clicker training tutorial online.
Watch the tutorial and take notes.
Practice using a clicker with your dog.

Join a Dog Training Group

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Connect with other dog owners and trainers to share experiences, learn new techniques, and get support.

Browse courses on Socialization

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Find a dog training group in your area.
Attend group meetings regularly.
Participate in group discussions and activities.

Attend Dog Owner Group Meetings

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Connect with other dog owners, share experiences, and learn from each other's training journeys

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Join dog owner groups in your local area or online.
Attend regular meetings and participate in discussions.
Share your experiences and ask for advice from other dog owners.

Develop a Training Plan

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Create a customized training plan that will help you achieve your specific training goals for your dog.

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Identify your training goals.
Research different training methods.
Create a training schedule.
Practice the training exercises with your dog.

Create a Dog Training Plan

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Develop a customized training plan for your dog to solidify the techniques covered in this course.

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Identify the specific behaviors you want your dog to learn.
Break down each behavior into smaller, achievable steps.
Set realistic training goals and a timeline for achieving them
Incorporate positive reinforcement and reward-based training techniques.
Monitor your dog's progress and make adjustments to the plan as needed.

Volunteer at a Dog Shelter

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Gain practical experience and reinforce your theoretical knowledge by volunteering at a dog shelter.

Show steps

Contact local dog shelters and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Attend training sessions to learn proper handling and safety protocols.
Assist with tasks such as walking, feeding, and grooming dogs.
Apply the techniques learned in this course while interacting with dogs.

Create a Video of Yourself Training Your Dog

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Creating a video of yourself training your dog will help you solidify your understanding of the concepts discussed in the course and allow you to share your knowledge with others.

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Choose a specific training technique to demonstrate.
Film yourself training your dog using the technique.
Edit the video to make it clear and concise.
Share your video with others on social media or online forums.

Career center

Learners who complete Crucial Concepts in Dog Behavior & Training will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Professional Dog Trainer

Professional Dog Trainers provide specialized training and behavior modification services for dogs. This course is highly relevant to Professional Dog Trainers as it provides a comprehensive understanding of dog behavior and training techniques. The course's focus on non-aversive punishments and the use of life rewards aligns with the ethical and humane practices expected of Professional Dog Trainers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Professional Dog Trainer

Canine Trainer

Canine Trainers work with dogs to teach them obedience, socialization, and specific tasks. This course is highly relevant to Canine Trainers as it provides a comprehensive understanding of dog behavior and training methods. The course's emphasis on motivating dogs through positive reinforcement and using the trainer's voice as a training tool is essential for effective Canine Training.

See salaries and explore the career path for Canine Trainer

Dog Behavioral Specialist

Dog Behavioral Specialists help dog owners address behavioral issues and train their dogs to be well-behaved companions. This course is highly relevant to Dog Behavioral Specialists as it provides a comprehensive understanding of dog behavior and training techniques. The course's emphasis on non-aversive punishments and the use of life rewards aligns with the ethical and humane practices expected of Dog Behavioral Specialists.

See salaries and explore the career path for Dog Behavioral Specialist

Behavior Analyst

Behavior Analysts assess and treat individuals with behavioral challenges, such as autism or developmental disorders. This course may be helpful for Behavior Analysts as it provides insights into the principles of animal behavior and training. The course's focus on differential reinforcement and redirecting misbehavior can be applied to human behavior modification techniques used by Behavior Analysts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Behavior Analyst

Comparative Psychologist

Comparative Psychologists study the behavior of different animal species, including humans. This course may be useful for Comparative Psychologists as it provides a foundation in animal behavior and training techniques. The course's focus on differential reinforcement and redirecting misbehavior can be applied to comparative behavior studies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Comparative Psychologist

Animal Behaviorist

Animal Behaviorists study the behavior of animals, including their interactions with humans. This course may be useful for Animal Behaviorists as it provides a foundation in animal behavior and training techniques. The course's focus on differential reinforcement and redirecting misbehavior can be applied to animal behavior modification techniques used by Animal Behaviorists.

See salaries and explore the career path for Animal Behaviorist

Veterinary Technician

Veterinary Technicians assist veterinarians in providing medical care to animals. This course may be useful for Veterinary Technicians as it provides a foundation in animal behavior and handling techniques. The course's emphasis on understanding animal reactivity and using non-aversive methods can help Veterinary Technicians ensure the safety and well-being of the animals in their care.

See salaries and explore the career path for Veterinary Technician

Ethologist

Ethologists study the behavior of animals in their natural habitats. This course may be useful for Ethologists as it provides a foundation in animal behavior and training techniques. The course's emphasis on understanding animal reactivity and using non-aversive methods can help Ethologists observe and interpret animal behavior in natural settings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Ethologist

Animal Shelter Manager

Animal Shelter Managers oversee the operations of animal shelters, including the care and adoption of animals. This course may be useful for Animal Shelter Managers as it provides a foundation in animal behavior and handling techniques. The course's emphasis on understanding animal reactivity and using non-aversive methods can help Animal Shelter Managers create a safe and humane environment for the animals in their care.

See salaries and explore the career path for Animal Shelter Manager

Dog Walker

Dog Walkers provide exercise, socialization, and care for dogs while their owners are away. This course may be useful for Dog Walkers as it provides a foundation in dog behavior and handling techniques. The course's emphasis on understanding dog reactivity and using non-aversive methods can help Dog Walkers ensure the safety and well-being of the dogs in their care.

See salaries and explore the career path for Dog Walker

Zookeeper

Zookeepers care for and maintain animals in zoos and other wildlife facilities. This course may be useful for Zookeepers as it provides insights into animal behavior and handling techniques. The course's emphasis on understanding animal reactivity and using non-aversive methods can help Zookeepers ensure the safety and well-being of the animals in their care.

See salaries and explore the career path for Zookeeper

Animal Trainer

Animal Trainers teach animals to perform specific behaviors, such as obeying commands, performing tricks, or assisting people with disabilities. This course may be useful for aspiring Animal Trainers as it provides a foundation in animal behavior and training techniques. The course's emphasis on non-aversive punishments and the use of life rewards aligns with the ethical and humane practices expected of Animal Trainers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Animal Trainer

Wildlife Biologist

Wildlife Biologists study the behavior and ecology of wild animals. This course may be useful for Wildlife Biologists as it provides a foundation in animal behavior and training techniques. The course's emphasis on understanding animal reactivity and using non-aversive methods can help Wildlife Biologists observe and interpret animal behavior in the wild.

See salaries and explore the career path for Wildlife Biologist

Veterinarian

Veterinarians diagnose and treat diseases, injuries, and other health conditions in animals. This course may be useful for Veterinarians as it provides insights into animal behavior and handling techniques. The course's emphasis on understanding animal reactivity and using non-aversive methods can help Veterinarians provide compassionate and effective care to their animal patients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Veterinarian

Pet Sitter

Pet Sitters provide care for pets in their owners' absence, including feeding, walking, and administering medication. This course may be helpful for Pet Sitters as it provides insights into animal behavior and handling techniques. The course's focus on understanding pet reactivity and using non-aversive methods can help Pet Sitters ensure the safety and well-being of the animals in their care.

See salaries and explore the career path for Pet Sitter