Dog Training Definition Part 4

Through my experiences, readings, and discussions; these are the definitions that I have been coming up with to define terms that I use in dog training. It’s important to note that other dog trainers or canine professionals may mean different things when these same terms are used. However, I try to remain true to these definitions, such as these, when I speak on dog subjects. Some of the following definitions are a lot more detailed outside of the dog training or behavior modification world. These are the basics talked about as referenced (generally) by dog trainers. This is part four of the definitions and basics postings.
Ever wonder what those trainers or behavior modification people are talking about? While these might not be the only definitions in the dog world or otherwise, these might give you a clue!!

Ever wonder what those trainers or behavior modification people are talking about? While these might not be the only definitions in the dog world or otherwise, these might give you a clue!!



Classifications of Temperaments in Dogs:

• Core Temperament (or just definition of temperament)- Traits of personality that are inborn and genetic in nature.  While this might sound dire in dog training, while the core of one's personality, generally, won't be changed, it does not mean that responses can not be improved through training.  One other thing I would point out in my particular definition of dog training, these can be one aspect of a dog and not a way to describe a dog, necessarily, in the whole of their personality.   We identify temperaments in dogs to understand the best paths that have worked in training and behavior modification in the past in order to start a training plan (one of many things taken into consideration).  An even better definition of temperament as it applies to dogs is described as sound or unsound for a specific task.   This takes out the negatives, and focuses on temperament in a more positive light.

• Sound-Ideal for doing a job or task

• Unsound-Not ideal for doing a job or task

Some people will think the following temperament descriptions indicate that a dog may be sound or unsound.  Sometimes these things actually make a dog an ideal candidate for a certain task.

• Sharp-Over reacts in an adverse way  to things most other dogs would not react adversely to.
• Shy-Hesitant to be affectionate right away, but not quite fearful.
• Fearful-Extreme fear in situations that most other dogs would not react adversely to.   Reactions can range from trying to hide behind or under something, shaking, lip licking, to biting or attacking if feeling cornered.   Fearful dogs do not always bite, but cornering them or making some feel trapped can trigger an adverse reaction in some fearful dogs.
• High Activity Drive-This is the type of dog many call hyper or reactive.   This is a dog normally of exceptional physical and mental abilities.   These types of dogs often need a lot of exercise, but more than that a job usually helps them exercise their mind as well.
• Aggressive-There are many different ways to define aggression in the dog training world.   I describe it as a forward and confident action on the part of the dog to inflict a warning or harm.   Whereas fearful is a more defensive and backward position of a dog lacking confidence.
• Dominant-A dog that seeks to control resources.   They may not do this, in my opinion, in an aggressive way, but they will seek to control things in their surrounding (owners, treats, toys, territory, furniture)
• Independent-A free thinker.  This dog does not necessarily need or want human guidance as a rule.

Classifications of Drive (sometimes these are called positive or negative drives by some trainers, I think they all have a use and a place with dogs that can be either depending on the situation):

• Prey Drive-Urge and action of chasing, grabbing, and subduing a fast moving item.

• Pack Drive-Urge and desire to participate in a social group.

• Food Drive-Not that dogs like to eat or like food, but they are motivated to perform and learn a task when rewarded by food.

• Play Drive-Dogs that are motivated and learn to perform a task through the use of toys and games with others (humans or canines).

• Defense -The action of protecting oneself from a perceived threat.

• Rank-Desire to raise in stature in a social group.

• Avoidance-A drive that comes into play when the stress level becomes too much for the dog. They will seek to avoid the stress.

• Fight Drive-The ability to forwardly protect or defend themselves or their resources.

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