If you’re a dog-parent is the case, then you need to know that responsible dog ownership along with positive training and greater understanding be a big help in the protection for the dog in your family.
We caught up with Paramita Das, who is a dog trainer and behaviorist in Kolkata to discuss ways to deal with dog behavior issues and growing opportunities in the dog training bangkok field of dog training and canine behavior.
Edugraph: What exactly is the job of dog behaviorists?
Paramita Das Dog behaviorists collaborate with pet owners to help them understand the behavior issues of their pets. They also devise a system to help address and manage these issues. To do so, these experts study the patterns of behavior of dogs, observe the interaction of dogs with owners, and then interpret and watch the dog’s body language in various situations.
What brought you into this field?
PD: After more than two decades in the world of work I decided to pursue my passion for dealing with dog owners. I realized that, in addition to loving dogs, it’s vital to try and understand their needs as they’re an entirely different species than humans.
After I had completed my first canine trainer’s training course, I wanted to help pet parents train their dogs using an approach that is positive and gentle. My goal was to make sure that both the dog and its pets can enjoy a an enjoyable life. After that, I went on to attend classes regarding canine aggression and behavior and aggression.
What are the daily tasks in this profession?
My day-to-day activities include training young puppies and adult dogs to be great canines, preparing dogs to play and have fun, working with families facing behavior issues with their dogs. I also work with chewing and destructive behaviour problems, separation anxiety, toilet training anxiety issues, fear, problems with walking on leashes and aggression issues.
What’s the most challenging issue you’re faced with?
PD: Although the majority of us think that dogs are the problem, a lot of the issues stem from those who own pets. There is an absence of knowledge of why dogs behave in particular ways and how we could have contributed to this behavior. In the present hectic and hectic pace of life, both time as well as patience are limited. This is among the major problems. When the entire family is involved in engaging with animals in a disciplined way, things get easier.
Are you able to describe the strategies you use when working with dogs with problems with behavior?
PD: I primarily employ techniques to help the pet family understand the reasons for their dog’s behaviour issues. It is essential that your family members participate in obedience training to ensure that the dog follows them in various situations and in the appropriate manner. Pet owners should have some influence over their dog’s behaviour in an appropriate way. My job is to implement an approach to build relationships between family members and their dog.
What are some common mistakes pet owners make while playing with their dogs?
A lot of pet owners consider their dog to be the equivalent of a human being or toy. A dog is a living being , and a distinct species. Human beings are primates, but dogs are canids. Although dogs are our greatest companions, some owners must recognize that they’re part of an animal species that is different. It is therefore crucial for them to know the dog’s species. Families need to be aware of the breed of their dog and make use of that information positively.
What advice would you offer to someone planning to bring your puppy at home?
PD: Be aware that your dog is different species and be prepared to devote a significant amount of effort and time. Know your dog better –– teach the puppy acceptable behavior, take him/her for walks, play safe games with him/her and become an active participant in the activities your dog enjoys.
Be prepared for financial commitments such as vet costs, expenses for your dog’s illness, grooming charges, boarding charges during your absence, relocation costs. It is also important to have a system of support ready in case of any emergencies.
Overall, I believe you must be prepared for a long-term commitment of 12 to 14 years bringing dogs. We are able to pursue our passions and hobbies, but a dog’s reliance is upon the human family to give him/her a great life. We must not let our pet down in that.
What advice do you have to young people who already own a pet?
PD: Be involved in the life of your dog. Make sure you are involved in the activities your dog really loves. If you have Labradors, go for a dip. If you have an Beagle or Indie you can take them for scenting games in a park. Spend quality times with the pet in order to create a strong relationship. Your time spent 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?
PD: There are courses available to acquire the skills and training required to be an experienced dog behaviorist. I have taken courses taught by Shirin Merchant who is among leading experts in the discipline of canine behavior as well as education in India. I also took courses by John Rogerson, who is an internationally-renowned dog trainer and behaviorist. John and Shirin both Shirin and John utilize gentle and positive training methods that focus on establishing a solid relationship between the dog’s family.
What are the different career paths one can choose to pursue while being with dogs?
PD: There are a lot of opportunities available in this booming field. The public is becoming more aware about the need to take the pets they love to specialists today. The roles of a vet groomer, trainer, and behaviorist are some of the most common choices. You could also operate an animal boarding facility. Animal rescue and working at shelters is another possibility. After a proper training you can also turn into an expert in pet nutrition.