If you’re a dog-parent is the case, then you need to know that responsible dog ownership as well as positive training and greater understanding make a huge difference to ensure the wellbeing that your dog is a member of your family.
We spoke to Paramita Das, a canine trainer and behaviorist from Kolkata, to discuss how to handle dog behavior issues as well as the increasing opportunities in the dog training bangkok field of dog behavior and canine behavior.
Edugraph: What exactly is the job of the dog behaviorist?
Paramita Das Dog behaviorists help pet owners help them comprehend the behavior issues of their pets. They also develop a program to help address and manage the issues. To achieve this, these experts study the patterns of behavior of dogs, study the interactions with their dogs and interpret and observe the body language of dogs in various situations.
How did you become involved in this field?
PD: After over two decades in working in the corporate world I wanted to follow my love for working with dogs. I realized that aside from loving dogs, it’s crucial to understand their needs as they’re distinct from humans.
When I completed my initial dog trainer’s course, was determined to help pet owners guide their dogs through gentle and positive methods. My goal was to ensure that both the dog and its dog family members have a the best time together. Following that I proceeded to take classes on aggression and canine behavior as well.
What are your typical tasks in this job?
My day-to-day activities consist of teaching young puppies as well as adult dogs to be excellent pet companions, teaching dogs to play with fun helping families with difficulties with their dogs’ behaviours. I also tackle chewing and destructive behaviour as well as separation anxiety issues. toilet training fears, problems with walking on leashes and aggression issues.
What is the most frequent challenge you face?
PD: Although the majority of us think that dogs are the problem, a lot of the issues stem from pets owners. There is an absence of knowledge about the reasons why dogs behave in the way they do and how humans may have contributed to that behavior. In today’s busy and hectic pace of life, time and patience levels are limited. That’s one of the biggest challenges. Once the family has invested in managing your pets in a planned manner, the process becomes more smooth.
Do you have a list of the methods you employ while working with dogs with problems with behavior?
PD: I mostly utilize techniques to help pet’s owner understand why their dog is exhibiting behaviour issues. It is essential that the family members be involved in obedience classes so that their dog is able to obey them when they are in different situations and behaves in a way that is acceptable. Pet owners need to have some control on their dog’s behavior an acceptable manner. My role is to create an approach to build relationships between dogs and family members.
What are the most frequent mistakes pet owners make while communicating with their pets?
Pet owners often treat their dogs as the equivalent of a human being or toy. Dogs are living creature — a different species. Human beings are primates while dog breeds are called canids. Although dogs are our best friends, some pet owners must recognize that they still belong to an entirely different species. Therefore, it’s essential for them to understand the canine species. Families need to be aware of the breed of their dog and make use of that information in a positive way.
What advice would you give to someone planning to bring a puppy to their home?
PD: Be aware that your dog is a different species and be prepared to invest a lot of time and effort. Know your dog better –– teach the puppy acceptable behaviour, take him/her on walks, play acceptable games with him/her and be an active participant in the activities your dog enjoys.
Prepare yourself for financial obligations such as vet bills, costs when your dog falls ill, grooming charges and boarding fees during your absence or moving. It is also important to have a system of support for any emergencies.
Overall, I believe it is important to prepare yourself to commit for a commitment that lasts 12-14 years of raising dogs. It is possible to pursue your individual interests and hobbies but a dog’s life is dependent on his family members to give them a good life. Don’t let your dog down on this.
What would be your advice to children who have pets?
PD: Take part with your dog’s daily routine. Do your best to participate in the activities that your dog actually enjoys. If you have Labradors, you can take them to the water. If you own a Beagle or Indie go with them to play scenting games in a park. Spend time with your pet and build an enduring bond. Spending time with your pet is all that matters.
What are the educational and professional options for someone who desires to become a trainer and behaviorist?
In the field of dog behavior, there are courses which can be pursued to acquire the skills and skills required to become an experienced dog behaviorist. I’ve taken classes taught by Shirin Merchant who is one the pioneers in the discipline of canine behavior as well as education in India. I have also completed courses by John Rogerson, who is an internationally renowned trainer of dogs and behaviorist. Both Shirin and John utilize gentle and positive methods of training, which focus on building a strong bond between the dog and the family.
What are the different career paths you can pursue when doing work with dog?
PD A lot of opportunities available in this booming field. More and more people are aware about the necessity to take the pets they love to specialists in recent times. As a vet groomer, trainer, and behaviorist are some of the most commonly used options. It is also possible to run an animal boarding facility. Animal rescue or working in shelters is another option. With the right training you can also turn into an expert in pet nutrition.
