Question 1

When should I get my dog a behaviorist?

Accepted Answer

The sooner the better! There are various factors contributing to your dog's behaviour, and each day they can be getting a little bit stronger. At the start of training we always discuss management options which can help temporarily, as well as prevent the behaviour from becoming a habit. Training takes time, however knowing what to do in any given situation can help reduce your stress, and subsequently, your dog's.

Question 2

What does a dog behaviourist do?

Accepted Answer

A behaviourist is a body language and  a psychology expert. They look at underlying factors for your dog's behaviour and tackle them at the source. The aim is to change your dog's emotional state in any given situation, and teach them a behaviour which is more appropriate than the current one.

Question 3

What is the difference between a dog trainer and a behaviorist?

Accepted Answer

Though behaviour specialists can and will implement training and exercises into their program, the difference is between learning and behaviour. A trainer can teach your dog to do specific tasks, where a behaviourist will focus on their emotional wellbeing and mental state, as well as behaviours they cause.

Question 4

Does my dog need a trainer?

Accepted Answer

Probably. If you found yourself asking this question, there are things which require professional help, and are highly unlikely to be resolved without it. We believe that having a dog professionally trained, is as important as a child attending school.

Question 5

What is the best time to train your dog?

Accepted Answer

As soon as you have your dog, ideally. Puppies have short attention spans, but their brains absorb information at a very fast rate. Within days you will find that your puppy has learned the "wrong thing", and it is always easier and faster to learn something new than to unlearn something they already believe to be correct.

Question 6

How many training sessions does a dog need?

Accepted Answer

Generally our courses span over 4-6 sessions of 1,5 hours each. In a vast majority of cases this is a sufficient time frame to improve. This can change from dog to dog for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to the severity of the problem, your dog's motivation or comfort levels.

Question 7

What age should a puppy be toilet trained?

Accepted Answer

Experts recommend that you begin house training your puppy when they are between 12 weeks and 16 weeks old. At that point, they have enough control of their bladder and bowel movements to start learning to hold it.

Question 8

How do I find a good dog behaviorist?

Accepted Answer

Research, research, research 
A qualified trainer or behaviour specialist will NEVER
- Suggest aversive training methods 
- Raise their voice at a dog 
- Make you feel uncomfortable or embarrassed about your dog's behaviour 
- Say that you need to be "The boss" or "Alfa" 
- Utilise alpha rollovers, use e-collars, choke or prong chains

SIRIUS DOGS UK

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