Observation Skills for Training Dogs and Their People: Resources for Observing Dogs and Their Humans

Thursday, February 7, 2013

Resources for Observing Dogs and Their Humans

Trainers often forget that observation and interpretation happens from all participants. Trainers tend to focus on the dog, less on the humans, but forget other interactions are going on that affect both human and dog behavior. The trainer's own behavior can affect behaviors that are occurring from both the handler and the dog.

Trainer observes dog

Trainer observers human handler

Trainer observes other dogs

Handler observes dog

Handler observes other dogs

Handler observes trainer

Dog observes handler

Dog observes Trainer

Dog observes other dogs

Having strong observation skills and knowledge of human behaviors is just as important as having those for dogs. The trainer needs to communicate with the handler in a way that is meaningful to them to be able to help the dog. Here are some useful resources to learn both.

Dog Behavior:

A great one for beginners and advanced observers alike to learn more about dogs is “On Talking Terms with Dogs: Calming Signals” by Turid Rugaas. This book, though little, is chock full of photos that show over 30 behaviors your dog does in stressful situations. Great starting point for anyone who has or deals with anxious, fearful or reactive dogs. Ideal for families too. Available in soft cover, e-book and a DVD too!

Calming Signals - The Art of Survival by Turid Rugaas http://www.canis.no/rugaas/onearticle.php?artid=1

Calming Signals Photo Gallery

http://www.canis.no/rugaas/gallery.php

Guide to Calming Signals

http://www.thecrossovertrainer.com/guide-to-calming-signals/

Canine Communication and Body Language

http://www.doglistener.co.uk/language/language_canine.shtml

Turid Rugaas – Video Describing Signals

http://youtu.be/Lj7BWxC6iVs

Canine Body Language A Photographic Guide Brenda Aloff

The Language of Dogs DVD Sara Kaljnas