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Dog Training

The affect COVID-19 has had on dogs and puppies

Dog trainers anticipated COVID-19 would have an impact particularly around puppy socialisation and dog socialisation but I don’t think they ever thought it would cause so many issues.

Recently I have been attending private home visits and running group obedience classes in the Clyde, Clyde North, Cranbourne and Cranbourne North areas. 

It is very rare to meet so many dogs that are displaying separation anxiety, destructive behaviour, behaviour issues, people aggression and dog aggression.

It is a worrying trend. 

Dog trainers knew this would occur after such a prolonged lockdown in Melbourne but what they did not realise was how large the problem would be.

Dog owners are struggling and it’s only going to get worse unless they seek the assistance of professional dog trainers because it is not an easy fix, nor do you want to rush the process.

The process would consist of a combination of desensitisation training (safety exposing your dog to a stimulus) and counter conditioning techniques (changing your dog’s emotional response to a stimulus) and would most likely require several sessions, not just one.

Dog owners don’t have the knowledge or experience themselves to commence this training, therefore it is extremely important that a professional dog trainer is employed to assist them.

To obtain professional advice or to locate an accredited dog trainer in your area, contact an organisation such as the National Dog Trainers Federation (NDTF) who have a list of certified dog trainers or contact me directly.

Michelle Farrow

Inspire Me Dog Training