Chirag Patel brings his decades of behavior expertise to unpack the complex topic of aggression in dogs, exploring why labels are less useful than understanding behavioral function and how human-centered perspectives often complicate our work.

• Defining aggression as subjective – what falls under this label depends on the observer's learning history and context
• Looking beyond topography (what behavior looks like) to examine the function that behavior serves
• Understanding emotions as part of contingencies rather than as explanations for behavior
• How classical and operant conditioning work together rather than as separate processes
• The importance of functional assessment in determining what maintains unwanted behavior
• Moving past simplistic "body language" interpretations to analyze behavioral contingencies
• How caregiver behavior influences dogs through reinforcement contingencies
• Ethical considerations in behavior change strategies for aggression cases
• The future of dog behavior work combining behavior science with new technologies

CHIRAG'S SITE:

https://www.chiragpatelconsulting.com/

Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:
AggressiveDog.com

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The Aggression in Dogs Conference

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In the season finale of The Bitey End of the Dog, we sit down with Dr. Daniel Mills, a leading authority in clinical animal behavior, to unearth the complexities of canine aggression. Dr. Mills challenges the conventional wisdom that labels dogs as aggressive, advocating instead for an objective observation of their behaviors.

Our journey continues with an exploration of the emotional lives of dogs, guided by the influential work of Jaak Panksepp. We discuss how miscategorizing aggression can lead to misunderstandings and ineffective solutions. Dr. Mills emphasizes the importance of distinguishing context, motivation, and emotion to address behavioral issues effectively. We also touch on the broader impact of training techniques, revealing how addressing emotional states like frustration can resolve a multitude of behavior problems!

About Daniel:
"I am a RCVS, European and ASAB recognised specialist in clinical animal behaviour, as such I have been developing and exploring new interventions for behaviour problems, such as: The use of semiochemicals to control the emotional reaction of animals (pheromonatherapy) The use of mirrors to control stereotypic weaving in horses Psychometric profiling of animal behaviour Over the last 25 years, I have led the development of what has become known as the "Psychobiological approach" to clinical animal behaviour at Lincoln. This synthesises contemporary behavioural biology and psychology with neuroscience to develop a systematic scientific approach to the assessment of problem behaviour in animals. I still consult at the University Animal Behaviour Clinic (https://animalbehaviourclinic.lincoln.ac.uk/) I have a strong research interest in the comparative psychology underpinning problem behaviour, particularly emotionality and how this contributes to individual differences. This links both my applied and fundamental research, for example by examining how we and non-human animals recognise and respond to the emotional state of another More recently I have had opportunities to scientifically explore my interests in the potential value of our relationships with animals. My research in this area focuses on the benefits from pet keeping using a multidisciplinary approach, for example collaborations with biologists, health care professionals, psychologists, lawyers and economists. Recent projects include: The effect of pet dogs on human health and well-being Investigations into animal emotion Semiochemical signals in the dog Improving performance in scent detection dogs External influences on human decision makign that impact animal welfare In 2022 I was listed by Stanford University in their data base of the top 1% of cited scientists globally. In addition to accepting students on funded projects (generally advertised on the University sites and findaphd.com) I accept self-funding post-graduate research students. Please contact me directly for an informal chat if this is of interest to you. "

Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:
AggressiveDog.com

Learn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:
The Aggression in Dogs Conference

Subscribe to the bonus episodes available here:
The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus Episodes

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What if you could turn your dog's natural sniffing instinct into a powerful tool for behavior modification and enrichment? Join us as we explore this intriguing idea with Nancy Reyes, a dog training expert with over thirty years of experience. Nancy takes us through the captivating evolution of nose work—a sport initially developed to help shelter dogs that has now garnered widespread recognition. Together, we navigate the fascinating world of scent detection activities, ranging from tracking to barn hunts, and discuss how utilizing a dog's sense of smell can revolutionize your approach to behavior modification and enrichment strategies.

About Nancy:

With three decades of professional experience, Nancy Reyes is a dedicated dog trainer whose journey began with a childhood fascination for animals. Over the years, her passion for understanding and training dogs has only grown stronger.

Nancy's commitment extends beyond her professional pursuits; for the past 30 years, she has generously dedicated her time to working with shelter and rescue dogs throughout the Midwest. From providing training and evaluation assistance to fostering dogs in her own home, Nancy has truly made a difference in the lives of countless dogs.

In 2004, Nancy took the leap and established For Your K9 Inc., a thriving hub offering a diverse range of classes including Puppy, Basic Obedience, Agility, Barn Hunt, Rally, and Nose Work located in Elmhurst, IL. She has worked extensively with a wide range of behavior issues from aggression to separation anxiety. At the heart of Nancy's training philosophy lies the belief in nurturing the bond between people and their dogs through effective communication and mutual respect.

A seasoned competitor in various canine activities such as obedience and agility, Nancy currently competing in nose work competitions. She holds multiple roles within the canine community, serving as a Certifying Official and Certified Instructor (CNWI) for NACSW (National Association of Canine Scent Work) and a CPE (Canine Performance Events) Scent Work judge, and CWAGS (Canine Work and Games) judge.

She is an international speaker and presenter in the topic of behavior and nose work. Her travels have taken her to Japan and across the 50 states.

Furthermore, beyond her training expertise, Nancy is also a certified Mental Management Instructor, coaching dog-handler teams to achieve their performance goals across different dog sports.

Nancy’s motto is: Become A Student of the Dog

http://www.foryourk9.com/

Limited time offer! The Aggression in Dogs Master Course and Expert Webinar Bundle! Only 50 will be made available.
https://aggressivedog.thinkific.com/bundles/the-aggression-in-dogs-master-course-and-expert-webinar-bundle-2024

Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:
AggressiveDog.com

Learn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:
The Aggression in Dogs Conference

Subscribe to the bonus episodes available here:
The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus Episodes

Check out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:
Webinars, courses, and more!