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Study Canine Behavior at ABI!

The Animal Behavior Institute is proud to announce the latest addition to our curriculum, ABI 271 Canine Behavior & Enrichment. This is the first of several new courses tailored to the behavioral management of specific species. In 2009 we will be adding courses dedicated to the behavior and enrichment of cats, primates, and rabbits & rodents.

Canine Behavior & Enrichment is not a dog training class; it is designed to supplement, not replace, ABI 233 Animal Training. In this course we will take an in-depth look at canine behavior, development, communication, and emotions. We will also explore the use of environmental enrichment to improve canine welfare and prevent the development of problem behaviors. Canine enrichment can be used in the completion of three of our certificate programs: Laboratory Animal Behavior, Animal Training & Enrichment, and Animal Assisted Therapy. The course is an excellent choice for anyone concerned with the care and management of dogs, such as:

  • Animal care technicians
  • Lab animal staff
  • Veterinary technicians
  • Dog Trainers
  • Therapy dog handlers
  • Kennel managers
  • Animal shelter workers
  • Dog day care staff


After successfully completing the course, students will be able to:

  1. Read a dog's body language and predict the dog's behavior before it occurs.
  2. Understand the development of canine fears and phobias - and how to prevent them.
  3. Assess the temperament of a dog, assisting in the proper placement of dogs in a new home.
  4. Understand the critical periods in the development of the canine mind and how to maximize the future potential of any dog.
  5. Recognize the multiple forms of aggression in canines and how to effectively manage them.
  6. Understand how imprinting, genetics, hormones and learning interact in the development of the canine mind.
  7. Use environmental enrichment to
    • Reduce stress and anxiety
    • Prevent the development of problem behaviors
    • Increase both physical and mental exercise
    • Maximize the quality of life for every dog!

The effective training and husbandry of dogs requires that we understand their communication signals, recognize signs of stress and aggression, and take a proactive stance in preventing the development of stereotypical or self-destructive behavior. This course will focus on canine body language, communication and behavior. We will review how enrichment and socialization can be used to address behavioral issues in a variety of captive settings from laboratories to dog day care.

Instructor: Dr. Gary Fortier, Animal Behaviorist

Text: The Dog's Mind: Understanding Your Dog's Behavior (Howell Reference Books) by Bruce Fogle