Dogs

Punishment is the use of an aversive stimulus in response to undesirable behaviour in order to decrease the likelihood of that particular action being repeated. If punishment is to be used, it must be appropriate in type and intensity, and must occur within seconds of the performance of the undesirable behaviour. It must also be followed by a command that enables an alternative action to be performed. For example, if your dog is jumping up at the bench to steal food and ignores the command ‘no’ followed by ‘come’, squirt him with a water pistol or use a foghorn to startle him. Then immediately ask him to sit, then to come and sit beside you. Reward his good behaviour with a pat. It is never acceptable to physically punish a dog by beating it.

Continue with your training after puppy school. Keep practising everything you have learned daily. If you are interested in agility or other areas of training, ask your veterinary surgeon to recommend a good training class. These classes usually start the puppies at six months of age.

WHO TO CONTACT IF YOU HAVE PROBLEMS

If you are experiencing behavioural problems with your puppy or dog, ask your veterinary surgeon to recommend someone who can help you The options are varied, a good trainer, an animal behaviourist, or a veterinary animal behaviourist, depending on the type and severity or your problem.

ANIMAL BEHAVIOURISTS

These experts have science degrees in behavioural zoology or behavioural science. They have an understanding of animal psychology and development and can assess and advise on behavioural problems. They are not veterinary surgeons and are not licensed to prescribe medication, rather they resemble psychologists in human medicine.