K9 Manhunt & ScentWork Scotland

25/08/2024

25/08/2024

The Gift of Accountability

All of us have the capacity to improve. We can all elevate our performance, make more thoughtful decisions, and strive to be better versions of ourselves. However, it is not uncommon for us to fall short of what we know we are truly capable of achieving.

But why is this the case?

Often, when the opportunity presents itself, we settle for less. We might exert less effort, offer less of our time, or even exploit a situation for personal gain. Many times, this happens because there seems to be no immediate consequence to our actions—no immediate boundary that makes us pause and reconsider. We become comfortable with giving less than our best because the instant rewards of complacency or self-interest are tempting, and there appears to be no downside in sight. And this tendency affects all of us, even you.

This is where the notion of accountability comes into play. Accountability is a gift, although it may not always feel that way. It is a gift that calls us to a higher standard, reminding us that we are capable of more. It says, "I know you have the potential for better, and I expect you to rise to the occasion." It pushes us towards excellence—not just for ourselves, but for those around us.

When we allow others—whether it's a colleague, a family member, a friend, or even our beloved dog—to get away with less than their best, we are in fact depriving them, and ourselves, of the great things they are capable of. In giving others a pass to underperform, we rob them, and everyone within their reach, of the potential impact they could have.

The challenge of enforcing boundaries and consequences can be demanding enough among humans. However, with our dogs, it can be even more complex. Dogs often appear as innocent creatures merely acting according to their instincts, doing what comes naturally to them. Yet, in reality, dogs, like people, also need to be held accountable if they are to offer their best selves to the world. Without boundaries and consequences, dogs will inevitably test limits, take advantage of situations, and, ultimately, land themselves in trouble. Just like us, they need guidance and consequences to understand the implications of their behaviour.

Thus, a valuable exercise for us is to shift our perspective on accountability and consequences. Rather than viewing them as punitive measures or as something unnecessarily harsh or demanding, we should begin to recognise them for what they truly are—a gift. Accountability is a tool that helps us to be our best, and it is something we can extend to others so that they, too, can rise to meet their full potential.

This is not merely about being tough or enforcing rules for the sake of it; it is about providing the guidance and structure necessary for growth and achievement. By embracing the gift of accountability, we create an environment where both ourselves and those we care for, including our pets, can thrive.
www.k9manhuntscotland.co.uk

24/08/2024

The Importance of Intention in Dog Training

When working with dogs, success is not solely dependent on the tools or techniques we employ. Although strategies and methods are significant, they are not the driving force behind achieving effective results. The core element that influences success, particularly in dog training, is “intention”.

Every action we take stems from a place of intention, and this is especially true when engaging with our dogs. Before we even begin a training session or attempt to address a behavioural issue, it is essential to focus on the outcome we wish to achieve. The energy and mindset we carry into that moment set the stage for how the training will unfold.

Dogs are highly intuitive creatures and possess an extraordinary ability to read our intentions, body language, and overall state of mind. They can easily discern whether we are confident and committed to the task at hand or uncertain and hesitant. Our dogs mirror our beliefs, so if our intention is strong, clear, and purposeful, they are more likely to follow our lead and respond positively to our commands. Conversely, any wavering on our part can introduce doubt, leading to confusion and less effective results.

To ensure success, it is crucial to “establish the right mindset”before we approach our dogs. We must visualise the desired outcome, believe in its possibility, and commit to seeing it through with confidence and clarity. The training process should begin long before the first command is given—inside our own minds. Only when we are mentally prepared can we effectively tackle the challenges of training and behaviour modification.

In essence, the journey towards successful dog training begins with us, not with the dog. By honing our intention, visualising our success, and acting with unwavering conviction, we can create an environment where positive change occurs naturally. The results may just exceed our expectations.
www.k9manhuntscotland.co.uk

23/08/2024

I’m away training this weekend with Wexford K9 Search & Rescue Scotland and Specialist Search Dogs.
A brilliant day 🐾🐾

23/08/2024

Good Behaviour: If Your Dog Can Get Away With It

Dogs are clever creatures, and they always do what works best for them. If a behaviour gets them something they desire, they'll keep repeating it. It’s really that simple. So, let’s explore some of the common things dogs do because, in their minds, they’ve discovered it works:

- Pulling on the lead: If your dog tugs on the lead and notices you walking faster or letting them reach that enticing tree, they’ll keep doing it. After all, it gets them closer to their goal.

- Barking from the crate: Some dogs realise that barking persistently from their crate might just get that door opened and earn them their freedom. It’s worked before, so why not try again?

- Being playful during leash time: If your dog acts the fool when you're trying to put on their lead, and it leads to you eventually putting it on, they’ve learned that being cheeky gets them what they want.

- Barking or lunging at other dogs: On walks, your dog might bark or lunge at other dogs. If this behaviour makes the other dog disappear from their view, or simply adds some excitement to their walk, they’ll continue doing it.

- Jumping up for attention: Whether it's positive or negative, if jumping up results in you giving your dog attention, they’ll jump again. For them, any reaction is better than being ignored.

- Pulling out the front door: If your dog drags you out the front door and it results in starting their walk sooner, they'll keep pulling. It’s a simple cause and effect that benefits them.

- Barking at the back door: When a dog barks at the back door and you let them inside, they've learned that barking is the key to entry.

- Whining for affection: If your dog whines and it leads to them getting petted or comforted, they’ll remember that a little whimper can go a long way towards getting what they want.

- Chewing on your clothes or hands: If mouthing or nibbling on your pant leg or hands gets you to engage with them, they’ll be back for more playful nips.

- Staring or growling for space: If your dog’s stare or growl causes you to back away from the food bowl, toy, bed, or whatever they're guarding, they’ve found an effective way to claim their space.

And here’s the catch: the more these behaviours work for them, the more they’ll do it, and with increasing intensity. Dogs are quick learners, especially when it comes to getting their own way!

Our Role as Their Guide

As responsible dog owners and leaders, it’s up to us to shape their behaviour by only reinforcing what we find acceptable. We need to reward behaviours that align with our lifestyle and gently discourage those that don’t. It’s all about consistency – making sure that what works for the dog also works for us, ensuring a harmonious relationship for both parties.

In the end, our dogs look to us for guidance, so we should be mindful of what behaviours we are encouraging. If we’re not careful, they’ll quickly learn to take advantage of what seems to work for them – even if it’s not ideal for us!

www.k9manhuntscotland.co.uk

22/08/2024

Lights!
Camera !
Action…….
🎬🎬🎬🎬
We have spent the day filming with BBC Alba, showcasing some of our amazing dogs and their work, which will hopefully air later in the year.

I’m away for the weekend, for a weekend of K9 Search & Rescue training, in the Lake District. Karen is holding the fort, but there will be limited response to messages and emails etc, we will get back to you but it may take a little longer than normal.

22/08/2024

Changing Your Mindset to Change Your Dog’s Behaviour: Why Sweating the Small Stuff Matters

If you’re struggling with your dog’s behaviour, whether it’s pulling on the lead, jumping up at guests, or generally ignoring commands, it’s natural to wonder why your dog isn’t improving despite your efforts. Many dog owners feel exasperated when their dogs “misbehave” outside the home, but the key to resolving these issues often starts much closer to home—literally. It’s about changing your mindset and paying attention to the small things inside your home that, when left unaddressed, can lead to larger, more challenging behavioural problems when you step outside.

The Importance of Changing Your Mindset

At the heart of successful dog training is your mindset. If you’re not willing to change the way you think and act, your dog’s behaviour won’t change either. Dogs are sensitive creatures that respond to your energy, behaviour, and the environment you create. When you shower your dog with inconsistent signals—like allowing unwanted behaviours at home but expecting perfect behaviour outside—you set the stage for frustration, confusion, and chaos in public.

One of the most critical aspects of this is what trainers often call “sweating the small stuff.” This means paying close attention to the little behaviours that occur within the home, behaviours that you might otherwise brush off or even unintentionally encourage. The small stuff matters because it sets the tone for how your dog will behave in more demanding or stimulating environments. By addressing the small behaviours in the home, you set your dog up for success outside of it.

What Do We Mean by "Sweating the Small Stuff"?

Sweating the small stuff refers to tackling those seemingly minor behaviours that happen in the home—behaviours that you might not think have much consequence but are, in fact, contributing to bigger issues. For example:

- Jumping up for attention: If your dog constantly jumps up at you when you're sitting on the sofa, demanding attention, and you indulge it, this sends the message that they can seek attention whenever they want. This seemingly small behaviour can lead to larger problems in public, such as jumping up at strangers.

- Begging for food: Letting your dog beg at the table may seem harmless at home, but this reinforces the idea that they can pester you for what they want. This can escalate to pulling towards food or scavenging in public spaces.

- Ignoring basic commands: If you tell your dog to “sit” or “stay” and they don’t listen, yet you don't follow through and enforce the command, you're teaching them that your instructions are optional. This lack of consistency at home can lead to poor recall or disobedience outside, especially when distractions are involved.

When we don’t sweat the small stuff, it’s like letting the foundations of a house weaken. Over time, cracks begin to appear, and eventually, the whole structure becomes unstable. When your dog pulls on the lead or doesn’t come when called, it’s often the result of minor behaviours at home being overlooked or encouraged.

Why Sweating the Small Stuff Prevents Bigger Problems

Think of sweating the small stuff as nipping things in the bud. By addressing small, seemingly insignificant behaviours early on, you prevent them from spiralling into larger issues. Dogs thrive on structure, and consistency at home creates a framework they can rely on. When that framework is in place, your dog knows what to expect and what is expected of them, whether you’re inside the house or out in the world.

1. Behaviour at Home Reflects in the Outside World: Your dog’s behaviour in the outside world is often a direct reflection of the behaviours allowed at home. If you’re showering your dog with constant affection and letting them get away with things in the house, don’t be surprised if they exhibit unruly behaviour outside. For example, if your dog isn’t required to sit calmly before getting attention or going for a walk, they’re likely to be hyperactive and unfocused as soon as you step outside.

2. Setting Boundaries: Dogs need boundaries. In the home, if you allow your dog to run the show—whether that’s barking at every little sound, demanding food from your plate, or jumping onto the furniture whenever they please—those same behaviours will manifest outside. When you set clear boundaries inside, such as only giving attention when your dog is calm, you establish a pattern that carries over into the outside world. A dog that knows how to respect boundaries at home will be much more likely to respect them when faced with distractions or exciting environments.

3. Creating Leadership and Trust: Dogs look to their owners for leadership. If you allow small, unwanted behaviours in the house because you think they don’t matter, you’re sending mixed signals about your role as the leader. When you sweat the small stuff, you’re communicating clear expectations, which helps build trust. Your dog learns that you are in charge and that they can rely on you to provide consistent guidance. This trust and leadership are crucial when you’re outside the home, where the environment is less predictable and more stimulating.

The Role of Affection and Balance

One common mistake many owners make is overloading their dogs with affection inside the home, even when the dog hasn’t earned it. Now, affection is essential for building a strong bond, but when it’s given without structure or purpose, it can reinforce negative behaviours. If your dog receives affection whenever they demand it, they start to believe they can control the environment.

This can translate into outside behaviour where your dog feels entitled to control situations—whether that’s pulling on the lead to get to a smell they want to explore or barking at other dogs for attention. A balance of affection and structure is crucial. Save affection for when your dog is calm and displaying desired behaviour, not when they’re jumping up, barking excessively, or pestering you.

Practical Tips for Sweating the Small Stuff at Home

Here are some ways you can start sweating the small stuff to prevent bigger behavioural issues:

1. Set Expectations at Home: Don’t wait until you’re outside to enforce rules. Begin by establishing clear expectations in the home. For example, if you don’t want your dog pulling on the lead outside, ensure they walk calmly beside you indoors before stepping out.

2. Be Consistent: Consistency is key in dog training. If you allow your dog to jump up on you sometimes but not at other times, they’ll be confused about what’s expected. Set firm rules and stick to them, no matter how small the behaviour.

3. Use Positive Reinforcement for Calm Behaviour: Reward your dog for calm, obedient behaviour in the house. If they sit quietly while you’re eating or greet you without jumping, give them attention and praise. Reinforcing these small behaviours will make a big difference when faced with more challenging situations.

4. Enforce Boundaries: Don’t be afraid to set boundaries for your dog at home. Whether it’s waiting to be invited onto the sofa or staying out of the kitchen when you’re cooking, these small boundaries teach your dog that there are limits to their behaviour.

5. Address Undesirable Behaviour Promptly: If your dog displays an unwanted behaviour at home, address it immediately. Don’t let it slide because it’s “just at home.” Sweating the small stuff means not letting those little behaviours become habits that are harder to break later on.

Final Thoughts

To create lasting change in your dog’s behaviour, you must be willing to change your own mindset and focus on the details. Sweating the small stuff at home may seem like extra effort, but it’s essential if you want to prevent bigger problems outside. By addressing small behaviours, setting boundaries, and maintaining consistency, you create a stable environment where your dog knows what’s expected. This leads to a well-behaved dog not just at home but in every situation. Remember, if you change your behaviour and mindset, your dog’s behaviour will follow—and sweating the small stuff will help ensure that bigger issues don’t arise.
www.k9manhuntscotland.co.uk

21/08/2024

I’m really looking forward to this, everyday is a school day, and there will be lots of learning 🐾❤️🐾

IMPACT K9 is the home for the IMPACT Working Dog Conference. “Sharing ideas, networking & learning” are the key messages during the IMPACT Working Dog Conference.

21/08/2024

Conditioned Response in Dog Training: A Deep Dive

What is a Conditioned Response?

In the context of dog training, a “conditioned response” refers to a learned behaviour that a dog exhibits when it has been trained to associate a specific stimulus with a particular outcome. In layman's terms, it's when a dog reacts automatically to something after having been taught to expect a certain result from it.

A classic example is the sound of a clicker in clicker training. If every time you use a clicker, the dog receives a treat, the dog will eventually associate the "click" sound with the treat. The dog doesn't have to think about it; it hears the click and expects a reward. This automatic reaction is the conditioned response.

How Does a Conditioned Response Affect the Dog?

A conditioned response can have both positive and negative effects on a dog. The process of conditioning essentially rewires the dog's brain to link certain stimuli with certain outcomes. For example:

- Positive Effects: If done correctly, conditioning can help the dog develop good habits, learn commands, and respond to you consistently. For instance, your dog might learn to sit whenever you say "sit," as it associates that word with receiving praise or a treat.

- Negative Effects: Conditioning can also work unintentionally. If a dog becomes conditioned to react fearfully to something (e.g., if it associates the sound of a vacuum cleaner with being scolded), it can create anxiety or undesirable behaviours. So, how you go about conditioning can significantly affect your dog’s mental and emotional state.

Why Does it Affect the Dog?

Dogs are highly perceptive creatures that learn through repetition and association. Conditioning takes advantage of this natural ability. The underlying psychological principle at play is Pavlovian conditioning or classical conditioning, discovered by Ivan Pavlov. He found that dogs could be trained to salivate at the sound of a bell if the bell was consistently rung before they were fed.

This happens because the dog's brain creates a link between two previously unrelated things (e.g., the sound of a bell and the act of eating). Over time, the dog doesn’t just react to the food but also to the sound, because it has learned that the sound predicts the food. This is a conditioned response.

As Trainers and Owners, What Should We Be Looking For?

1. Consistency: For a conditioned response to be established, consistency is key. The stimulus (e.g., a word, sound, or action) needs to be paired with the same outcome each time. Dogs thrive on routine, and inconsistent conditioning can confuse them, leading to erratic responses.

2. Timing: Timing is everything when conditioning a response. The association between the stimulus and the outcome must be immediate for the dog to make the connection. If there’s too much delay, the dog might not link the two events correctly.

3. Understanding Triggers: Recognising what triggers your dog’s conditioned responses is essential. For instance, if your dog becomes excited every time you pick up the lead, it’s because the dog has learned to associate the lead with going for a walk. Being mindful of these triggers helps you manage your dog’s behaviour better.

4. Building Positive Associations: Always aim to build positive associations. For example, if your dog is afraid of strangers, gradually condition the dog to associate strangers with something pleasant (like a treat) rather than something frightening.

5. Watching for Signs of Stress: On the flip side, be aware of unintended negative conditioning. If your dog starts reacting with anxiety or stress to specific stimuli, you need to assess whether you've accidentally conditioned a negative response. For example, if your dog becomes fearful every time you reach for its collar, it may have associated that action with punishment or restraint.

Why Can We Benefit from Conditioned Responses?

1. Building Desired Behaviours:
The greatest benefit of conditioning is that it allows us to shape and reinforce the behaviours we want. Whether it’s teaching a dog to come when called, sit, stay, or perform more advanced tricks, conditioned responses enable us to create predictable and reliable behaviours.

2. Communication:
Dogs don’t understand language the way humans do, but through conditioning, we can create a form of communication. A dog may not inherently understand the word "sit," but if it's consistently paired with the action and reward, the dog will learn to respond correctly.

3. Managing Problem Behaviours:
Conditioned responses are also invaluable when addressing problem behaviours. For example, if your dog is reactive towards other dogs, you can condition them to stay calm and focus on you by using treats or commands.

4. Safety:
Conditioning can be critical for safety. Teaching a dog a reliable recall (coming when called) through conditioning can prevent accidents, such as running into traffic or getting into dangerous situations.

What’s Good About Conditioned Responses?

- Efficiency:Once a behaviour is conditioned, it becomes automatic for the dog, which means you don’t have to constantly reinforce it. This makes training more efficient in the long run.

- Improves Bonding: Positive conditioning strengthens the bond between the dog and owner. The dog learns to trust and look to you for guidance, knowing that good things happen when they follow your cues.

- Versatility: You can use conditioned responses to teach a wide variety of behaviours, from basic obedience to complex tricks and even behaviour modification for anxious or reactive dogs.

What’s Bad About Conditioned Responses?

- Unintentional Conditioning: The biggest downside to conditioned responses is that they can happen unintentionally. For example, if you always pick up your dog when it's nervous, you may inadvertently condition it to believe that being nervous leads to comfort, reinforcing the fear.

- Over-Reliance on Rewards: Sometimes dogs can become overly reliant on the reward and might stop responding if the reward is not present. It’s essential to eventually fade out the treats or rewards so that the dog learns to respond without needing them every time.

- Difficulty Reversing Conditioned Responses: Once a conditioned response is firmly established, it can be difficult to unlearn. For example, if a dog has been conditioned to bark every time someone knocks at the door, reversing this behaviour can take significant time and effort.

Conclusion

Conditioned responses are at the core of how dogs learn and interact with the world around them. For trainers and dog owners, understanding how to use conditioning effectively can make a significant difference in training outcomes. It allows us to communicate clearly with our dogs, teach them desirable behaviours, and help them manage their emotions and responses to their environment.

By being mindful of how we use conditioning, we can shape a dog’s behaviour positively and avoid accidentally reinforcing negative responses. With the right techniques, we can improve both the dog’s quality of life and the relationship between the dog and owner.
www.k9manhuntscotland.co.uk

20/08/2024

Not long to go now and Only a couple of places left, be quick!

We are thrilled to announce that the renowned Tobias Gustavsson from Gritty K9 will be joining us in Glenrothes this September for two incredible workshops: Tracking & Scentwork! 🐾

Tobias brings over 20 years of expertise as a dog trainer and instructor. As one of the founders of SWDI and the author of “Tracking Dogs – Scents and Skills,” his experience is unparalleled. After 12 successful years, Tobias started his own venture, “Canine Consulting by Tobias Gustavsson,” working with top-tier clients including police K9 units, military special operations, search and rescue teams, and more.

These workshops cater to all levels, offering a unique opportunity to learn from a true expert. Spaces are limited and filling up fast, so don't miss out!

🔗 **Tracking Workshop - 7th September:**
- Handler Spot: [Book Now](https://bookwhen.com/k9manhuntscotland/e/ev-sqli-20240907090000)
- Spectator Spot: [Book Now](https://bookwhen.com/k9manhuntscotland/e/ev-sypc-20240907090000)

🔗 **Scentwork Workshop - 8th September:**
- Handler Spot: [Book Now](https://bookwhen.com/k9manhuntscotland/e/ev-sm4u-20240908090000)
- Spectator Spot: [Book Now](https://bookwhen.com/k9manhuntscotland/e/ev-sk0n-20240908090000)

Join us for these transformative workshops and elevate your dog training skills to new heights! 🐶✨

20/08/2024

In the world of dog training, one critical aspect that demands our attention is the role of human ego and its impact on our interactions with dogs. When it comes to training, the central tenet must always be the welfare and ethical treatment of the dog, placing these above personal pride or the desire to be right. This approach is not only about achieving results but doing so in a manner that honours the individuality and needs of each dog.

Too often, trainers and dog owners can fall into the trap of rigidly adhering to a single method, believing that their chosen approach is universally applicable to all dogs. This mentality not only reflects a misunderstanding of the diversity among dogs but also highlights the influence of human ego—an urge to exert control or demonstrate superiority, often at the expense of the dog's true needs.

Ego can be a formidable obstacle in dog training because it can cloud judgment and hinder progress. When trainers or owners are overly focused on proving their expertise or the infallibility of their methods, they may miss the crucial signs that a dog is struggling, anxious, or simply not responding well. Such an approach can lead to ineffective training and, more worryingly, unethical treatment that prioritises the trainer’s ego over the dog’s well-being.

The saying "leave your ego at the door" is particularly pertinent in dog training. It serves as a powerful reminder that the purpose of training is not to bolster one's own ego or rigidly follow a particular ideology. Instead, the focus should be on understanding and meeting the individual needs of the dog in front of you. This requires a willingness to be humble, to learn continuously, and to prioritise the dog’s welfare above all else. Training should be guided by principles of positive reinforcement, patience, and empathy, avoiding any form of coercion or force that could harm the dog physically or emotionally.

Flexibility and adaptability are essential qualities in a good dog trainer. Recognising that each dog is a unique being with its own temperament, learning style, and history is crucial. An effective trainer tailors their approach to fit the dog, not the other way around. This mindset aligns with the ethical principle of "do no harm," ensuring that every step in the training process is as safe and respectful as it is effective.

Ultimately, ethical and effective dog training is about setting aside personal pride and focusing on what is best for the dog. It means acknowledging that no single method works for all dogs and that sometimes, changing your approach is not a sign of failure but of respect for the dog's individual needs. By placing the dog’s well-being at the forefront, trainers and owners can create a more humane and successful training environment, one that strengthens the bond between human and dog through mutual respect and understanding. This not only leads to better training outcomes but also fosters a deeper, more compassionate relationship with our canine companions.
www.k9manhuntscotland.co.uk

19/08/2024

There has been a concerning rise in cases of Parvovirus in Fife.

To ensure the safety of all dogs, please refrain from bringing your dog to the unit if they are unwell or show any symptoms, as outlined in the accompanying image.

Even vaccinated dogs are being affected, alongside those that are unvaccinated.

As a precautionary measure, I kindly request that all customers keep their dogs in the car until the booking-in process is complete and I have had the chance to assess your dog *before* it exits the vehicle.

We will not admit any dog to the unit if they exhibit any signs of illness.

We are acutely aware that Canine Parvovirus is highly contagious and can be fatal, particularly for young, elderly, or immunocompromised dogs.

We do disinfect the unit on a regular basis and we have increased this practice.

I hope you understand the importance of these precautions.

Thank you for your cooperation.

🐾❤️🐾