Better Trainers Through Education

This is the motto of the Association for Pet Dog Trainers. Each year they gather experts in the field of training and behavior to teach trainers the newest most dog friendly methods to teach students and their dogs. I just got back from 5 days in Colorado listening to and learning from the best of the best.

This year's conference was no exception and the line up of speakers was impressive, including: Dr. Ian Dunbar, Dr. Suzanne Hetts, Dr. Temple Grandin, Karen Pryor, Pat Miller, Trish King, Dr. Patricia McConnell, Leslie Nelson, Kathy Sdao to name just a few!

Topics ranged from class curriculum to the latest research and scientific studies in dog behavior. All of it fascinating!

There have been dogs in the news of late, describing their feats of knowledge. We all read about Rocco the border collie who can "fast-map" learning new objects and their names only because they don't match his previous knowledge of the name for an item. "haven't seen that before so it must be the new word she's using". A phenomenom thought to be specific to humans.

Last night on the news I watched a video of a greyhound mix, first letting himself out of his kennel run at a shelter, running to the kitchen and satiating himself on kibble and then going back the the kennel runs and unlocking all of the other runs and letting all of the dogs out! Amazing!

Our dogs are capable of so much more than we give them credit for. I am honored and humbled to be able to work with these animals and with those that care for them. Learning to communicate effectively is key in this most unusual of relationships between man and beast. Doing it in a way that causes no harm is imperative to the strength and longevity of that relationship.

I thank the APDT in giving me an avenue to pursue greater knowledge and understanding of dogs, their behavior and how best to teach them. If you'd like more information on APDT, visit their site at www.APDT.com

Julie