If you’re a dog parent it is important to understand that responsible dog ownership in addition to positive training and greater understanding of the dog can help in the direction of ensuring the health and well-being that your dog is a member of your family.
We spoke to Paramita Das, a dog behaviorist and trainer in Kolkata to discuss the best way to deal with dog behavior issues and growing opportunities in the dog training bangkok field of dog behavior and dog behavior.
Edugraph: What exactly is the job of a dog behaviorist?
Paramita Das Dog behaviorists work with pet owners to help them comprehend the behavioral issues that affect their pets. They also create a plan to address and control the issues. For this, the professionals study the behavior patterns of dogs, watch the interactions with their dogs, and interpret and observe the body language of dogs in various settings.
How did you become involved in this field?
PD: Having spent more than two decades working in the world of work I wanted to follow my love of doing work with animals. I realized that, in addition to loving dogs, it’s crucial to learn to understand them better as they are an entirely different species than humans.
After I had completed my first canine trainer’s class, I wanted to help pet parents guide their dogs through friendly and gentle methods. My goal was to ensure that they as well as their canine family members can have a great life together. Then, I went on to attend classes regarding canine aggression and behavior and aggression.
What are your typical tasks in your job?
My day-to-day activities consist of teaching young puppies as well as adult dogs to be excellent canines, preparing dogs to play and have fun and working with families who are facing difficulties with their dogs’ behaviours. I also address chewing and destructive behaviour and separation anxiety issues. behavior that is arouses attention, toilet training, fear issues, problems with walking on leashes and aggression issues.
What’s the most challenging issue you’re faced with?
PD: While a majority of people believe that dogs are the root of the problem, a large portion of issues are caused by the pet owners themselves. There is no knowledge about the reasons why dogs behave in the way they do and how we might have contributed to this behavior. In today’s busy and hectic pace of life, our time or patience is at a minimum. That’s among the most significant challenges. Once the family members are invested in taking care of the pets they love in a planned way, things get easier.
Can you mention the techniques you use when working with dogs that have behavior issues?
PD: I usually use techniques to assist the pet’s family members understand the causes the dog’s behavior is due to behaviour problems. It’s important to have the family members be involved in training for obedience so that their pet obeys them when they are in different situations and in acceptable ways. Pet owners must have some influence over their dog’s behavior in a positive manner. My responsibility is to develop an approach to build relationships between dogs and family members.
What are some common errors pet owners make engaging with their dogs?
Many pet owners regard their dog as a human being or a toy. Dogs are living being , distinct from other species. Human Beings are primates, while dogs are canids. Although dogs are among our most beloved companions, some pet owners should recognize that they’re part of a different species. So, it’s important to them to be aware of the canine species. Families must be knowledgeable about the breed of their dogs and use that information positively.
What advice would you give to someone who is to bring your puppy home?
PD: Understand that your dog is different animal and that you need to invest a lot of time and effort. Know your dog better –instill a positive behavior, take him/her for walks, play safe games with him/her and become involved in activities that he/she is interested in.
Prepare for financial commitments such as vet bills, costs when your dog falls ill grooming costs or boarding costs while you’re away or moving. It is also important to have a support system for any emergencies.
Overall, I think you need to be prepared for a long-term commitment of 12-14 years of raising the dog to a good home. It is possible to pursue your individual interests and hobbies but a dog’s life is dependent upon the human family to give him/her a great life. Don’t let your dog down on this.
What advice would you give to those who are young and already own a pet?
PD: Be involved with your dog’s daily routine. Do your best to participate in the activities that your dog is truly passionate about. If you own Labradors, you can take them for a swim. If you have an Beagle or Indie you can take them for scent-based games in the park. Spend quality times with the pet to build an enduring bond. The time you spend together is the most important thing.
What are the possible academic and professional pathways if someone would like to become a dog behaviorist and trainer?
The PD: There are courses available to gain the knowledge and training required to be an experienced dog behaviorist. I’ve taken classes taught by Shirin Merchant who is one of the pioneers in the discipline of canine behavior as well as instruction in India. I also took courses taught by John Rogerson, who is an internationally recognized canine trainer and behaviorist. The two trainers Shirin and John utilize positive and gentle training methods that focus on establishing a solid relationship between the dog and its family.
What are the career streams one can follow while doing work with dog?
PD It is clear that there are plenty of possibilities in this growing field. People are becoming more aware about the necessity to take the pets they love to specialists nowadays. Being a vet, groomer, trainer, and behaviorist are among the most popular options. It is also possible to run the boarding center for dogs. Animal rescue and working at shelters is another option. If you are trained properly you could also be a pet nutritionist.