The Bitey End of the Dog

• Rethinking Aggression: The Science Beyond Labels

  Chirag Patel brings his decades of behavior expertise to unpack the complex topic of aggression in dogs, exploring why labels are less useful than understanding behavioral function and how human-centered perspectives often complicate our work.• Defining aggression as subjective – what falls under this label depends on the observer's learning history and context• Looking beyond topography (what behavior looks like) to examine the function that behavior serves• Understanding emotions as part of contingencies rather than as explanations for behavior• How classical and operant conditioning work together rather than as separate processes• The importance of functional assessment in determining what maintains unwanted behavior• Moving past simplistic "body language" interpretations to analyze behavioral contingencies• How caregiver behavior influences dogs through reinforcement contingencies• Ethical considerations in behavior change strategies for aggression cases• The future of dog behavior work combining behavior science with new technologiesCHIRAG'S SITE:https://www.chiragpatelconsulting.com/Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!

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• Redefining Dog Aggression with Dr. Daniel Mills

  In the season finale of The Bitey End of the Dog, we sit down with Dr. Daniel Mills, a leading authority in clinical animal behavior, to unearth the complexities of canine aggression. Dr. Mills challenges the conventional wisdom that labels dogs as aggressive, advocating instead for an objective observation of their behaviors. Our journey continues with an exploration of the emotional lives of dogs, guided by the influential work of Jaak Panksepp. We discuss how miscategorizing aggression can lead to misunderstandings and ineffective solutions. Dr. Mills emphasizes the importance of distinguishing context, motivation, and emotion to address behavioral issues effectively. We also touch on the broader impact of training techniques, revealing how addressing emotional states like frustration can resolve a multitude of behavior problems!About Daniel:"I am a RCVS, European and ASAB recognised specialist in clinical animal behaviour, as such I have been developing and exploring new interventions for behaviour problems, such as: The use of semiochemicals to control the emotional reaction of animals (pheromonatherapy) The use of mirrors to control stereotypic weaving in horses Psychometric profiling of animal behaviour Over the last 25 years, I have led the development of what has become known as the "Psychobiological approach" to clinical animal behaviour at Lincoln. This synthesises contemporary behavioural biology and psychology with neuroscience to develop a systematic scientific approach to the assessment of problem behaviour in animals. I still consult at the University Animal Behaviour Clinic (https://animalbehaviourclinic.lincoln.ac.uk/) I have a strong research interest in the comparative psychology underpinning problem behaviour, particularly emotionality and how this contributes to individual differences. This links both my applied and fundamental research, for example by examining how we and non-human animals recognise and respond to the emotional state of another More recently I have had opportunities to scientifically explore my interests in the potential value of our relationships with animals. My research in this area focuses on the benefits from pet keeping using a multidisciplinary approach, for example collaborations with biologists, health care professionals, psychologists, lawyers and economists. Recent projects include: The effect of pet dogs on human health and well-being Investigations into animal emotion Semiochemical signals in the dog Improving performance in scent detection dogs External influences on human decision makign that impact animal welfare In 2022 I was listed by Stanford University in their data base of the top 1% of cited scientists globally. In addition to accepting students on funded projects (generally advertised on the University sites and findaphd.com) I accept self-funding post-graduate research students. Please contact me directly for an informal chat if this is of interest to you. "Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!

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• The Power of Nose Work for Canine Behavior and Enrichment with Nancy Reyes

  What if you could turn your dog's natural sniffing instinct into a powerful tool for behavior modification and enrichment? Join us as we explore this intriguing idea with Nancy Reyes, a dog training expert with over thirty years of experience. Nancy takes us through the captivating evolution of nose work—a sport initially developed to help shelter dogs that has now garnered widespread recognition. Together, we navigate the fascinating world of scent detection activities, ranging from tracking to barn hunts, and discuss how utilizing a dog's sense of smell can revolutionize your approach to behavior modification and enrichment strategies.About Nancy:With three decades of professional experience, Nancy Reyes is a dedicated dog trainer whose journey began with a childhood fascination for animals. Over the years, her passion for understanding and training dogs has only grown stronger. Nancy's commitment extends beyond her professional pursuits; for the past 30 years, she has generously dedicated her time to working with shelter and rescue dogs throughout the Midwest. From providing training and evaluation assistance to fostering dogs in her own home, Nancy has truly made a difference in the lives of countless dogs.In 2004, Nancy took the leap and established For Your K9 Inc., a thriving hub offering a diverse range of classes including Puppy, Basic Obedience, Agility, Barn Hunt, Rally, and  Nose Work located in Elmhurst, IL. She has worked extensively with a wide range of behavior issues from aggression to separation anxiety. At the heart of Nancy's training philosophy lies the belief in nurturing the bond between people and their dogs through effective communication and mutual respect.A seasoned competitor in various canine activities such as obedience and agility, Nancy currently competing in nose work competitions. She holds multiple roles within the canine community, serving as a Certifying Official and Certified Instructor (CNWI) for NACSW (National Association of Canine Scent Work) and a CPE (Canine Performance Events) Scent Work judge, and  CWAGS (Canine Work and Games) judge.She is an international speaker and presenter in the topic of behavior and nose work. Her travels have taken her to Japan and across the 50 states. Furthermore, beyond her training expertise, Nancy is also a certified Mental Management Instructor, coaching dog-handler teams to achieve their performance goals across different dog sports.Nancy’s motto is: Become A Student of the Doghttp://www.foryourk9.com/Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!

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• From Fear to Trust: Transforming Dog Grooming with Christine Neumeyer-Smith

  In this episode, I chat with Christine Neumeyer-Smith, a master groomer, behavior specialist, AND certified professional dog trainer, to uncover the secrets of making grooming a stress-free experience for dogs. Christine's journey from a boarding kennel intern to a leading expert in the field is nothing short of inspiring. We tackle the communication gaps between groomers and trainers and reveal practical strategies like counter conditioning and consent-based training to enhance dog comfort and safety during grooming sessions.About Christine:"I'm a Master Groomer Behavior Specialist (MGBS), Certified Professional Groomer (CPG), Certified Behavior Consultant for Canines (CBCC-KA), Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), and Fear Free Certified Groomer and Trainer (FFCP). My journey began in 1986 during an internship for the Essex Agricultural and Technical Institute Animal Science program, where I discovered my passion for training and grooming. In 2000, I founded Happy Critters, offering house call grooming, in-home training, and behavior consulting. As an instructor at the Whole Pet Grooming Academy, I teach The Master Groomer Behavior Specialist program online course. Additionally, I've been hosting the Creating Great Grooming Dogs podcast since 2018 and speaking at grooming conferences and summits."Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!

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• Microbiomes and Behavior with Sarita Pellowe

  What if you could unlock the secrets of your dog's behavior through their gut? In our latest episode, we welcome Sarita Pellowe, an esteemed dog trainer and researcher, to guide us through the fascinating world of the gut microbiome and its profound impact on canine behavior. Sarita demystifies the vast and diverse ecosystem residing in your dog's gut, explaining how these microorganisms can shape health and behavior. You'll be amazed at the parallels between human and dog gut microbiomes and what this could mean for advancements in mental health research for both species!About Sarita:"I’m a trainer/behaviour consultant and grad student based in St John’s, Newfoundland. Proud human to Denzel (12 yo Boston terrier mix) and Leeloo (6 yo Rottweiler), and owned/ruled by our 6 year old kitty, Brookie. Originally from Blackpool, UK, I moved to Newfoundland in 2012 to pursue my first Masters degree in fish cardiovascular physiology after completing my B.Sc. in Zoology at the University of Manchester. I met Denzel in 2012, and as my problem child we set out on our training journey together. In 2017 I gained my CPDT-KA, then in 2018 I launched East Coast Canine Dog Training and gained my CBCC-KA. I returned to school in the height of the pandemic and joined the Canine Research Unit at Memorial University, where I have been researching the links between gut microbiome composition and anxiety/aggression in dogs. At East Coast Canine, I offer both private and group training and regularly volunteer at our local SPCA providing behaviour assessments and training for our rescues. In my spare time you’ll typically find me out fishing at the cabin, hiking the beautiful and rugged East Coast trails of Newfoundland, or attending agility/rally classes with Leeloo at our local sports club."https://www.eastcoastcanine.ca/Learn more about options for help for dogs with aggression here:AggressiveDog.comLearn more about our annual Aggression in Dogs Conference here:The Aggression in Dogs ConferenceSubscribe to the bonus episodes available here:The Bitey End of the Dog Bonus EpisodesCheck out all of our webinars, courses, and educational content here:Webinars, courses, and more!

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