Unleashing Success: The Crucial Role of Behaviour Assessments by Certified Trainers for Dogs Entering Day School
A well-run dog day school is an excellent way for dog owners to ensure that their pups get training, socialization, and physical and mental stimulation during the day. However, not all dogs are suitable for day school, and it's important that a certified dog trainer conduct a behaviour assessment before enrolling them. It’s not only about whether or not they can attend day school either; it also helps us to learn more about your dog in a stress-free way to determine the best group for them and identify areas they may need added training or support. In this blog post, we’ll explore why a behaviour assessment matters before a dog comes to day school.
Why Conduct a Behaviour Assessment?
Safety: Conducting a behaviour assessment helps identify any potential safety issues. Some dogs may be unsure of other dogs and/or people and they may find the group environment overwhelming. Identifying these issues beforehand can help prevent injuries to other dogs, staff, and the assessed dogs themselves.
Compatibility: A behaviour assessment can also help determine whether a dog is compatible with the group environment. Not all dogs are social or enjoy being around other dogs. A behaviour assessment can help determine whether a dog is comfortable in a group setting or would be better suited to one-on-one care.
Minimize Stress: A properly run assessment will focus on a slow and positive introduction. The dogs are not just thrown into a group but rather slowly introduced to specially selected dogs who will be appropriate and well-mannered. They will take time to let your dog explore the space on their own, meet the team, and integrate with fellow canine companions at their own pace.
Training Needs: Behaviour assessments can also help identify any training needs a dog may have. Some dogs may require additional training in areas such as basic manners, alone training, and more. Identifying these needs beforehand can help ensure that each dog receives the appropriate care and attention they need.
Why Must a Certified Trainer Conduct the Assessment?
Expertise: Certified trainers have the expertise to conduct behaviour assessments accurately and safely. They have the knowledge and skills necessary to observe and evaluate a dog's behaviour objectively and without bias.
Objectivity: Certified trainers are impartial and have no emotional attachment to the dog being assessed. This means that they can make unbiased assessments of the dog's behaviour, which can help ensure that the assessment is accurate and reliable.
Safety Measures: Certified trainers are well-versed in safety measures and know how to manage dogs in a variety of situations. They can identify potential safety risks and take appropriate measures to prevent injuries or accidents.
Understand Body Language: They have the education and experience to know when a dog is stressed, overwhelmed, or comfortable. This understanding enables them to make the correct choices for the dogs to ensure they have a positive experience.
Conducting a behaviour assessment before enrolling a dog in day school is critical for the safety and well-being of all involved. A behaviour assessment helps identify potential safety issues, compatibility with the group environment, and training needs. Employing a certified trainer to conduct the assessment provides additional benefits, such as expertise, objectivity, and safety measures. By taking these steps, pet owners can ensure that their pups receive the highest quality care and attention they need to thrive in a daycare environment.
Did you know that our behaviour assessments are always conducted by senior team? The dogs arrive after the morning rush so we can take a fear-free approach to their introduction to the facility, and we go at the dog’s pace to ensure they are comfortable. We also provide quiet spaces and give the dogs time to adjust to the new space, while pairing the experience with positives.
Of course, it’s important to remember that behaviour can change, so ongoing monitoring and behaviour tracking is key to a dog’s continued success in a group environment. A well-run behaviour assessment by qualified trainers is the first step to your dog’s safety and success at day school.
