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This unique and applied canine behaviour course provides a sound foundation on the subject of dog behaviour and training. The course is home-study based, illustrated throughout, with accompanying video material and assessment, help and guidance from a personal tutor. 

The course represents the cutting edge of modern behaviour theories and practice with Sarah Whitehead, CCAB and full APBC member, and highly regarded leader and practitioner in this field. 

Successful completion results in gaining a certificate from ThinkDog! 

Looking for the next level? Check out the ThinkDog! Certificate, (Self-Assessed), Part One.


What you will learn:


Module One: The Dog By Your Side

  • Behavioural evolution of the domestic dog
  • Basic care - a hierarchy of needs
  • The emotional life of a dog


Module Two: From puppy to dog

  • Learning to be a dog
  • The effects of a lack of socialisation 
  • Habituation
  • How dogs see each other and communicate


Module Three: Inside the Dog's Mind

  • Different breeds - different needs
  • How dogs learn
  • Training and behaviour myths explored
  • Building a relationship that lasts
  • Puppy biting and advice for owners

 

Unique course features:

  • Illustrated, up-to-the-minute notes
  • Easy to use online format 
  • Personal tutor to guide you and give you feedback throughout the course
  • Downloadable resources
  • Top level information and advice from working behaviour practitioners

 

Who is this course for?

This canine behaviour course is for anyone who is taking their first steps in understanding dog behaviour. It focuses on experience and understanding, not simply academic theory. 

It really is life-changing education!

If you want to become proficient in understanding canine behaviour and training, there’s no better place to start.

Course curriculum

  • 1

    Welcome to the ThinkDog! Foundation Course

    • Welcome! From Sarah Whitehead

    • About Sarah

    • About writing assignments and submitting work

    • How to write an essay for your assignments - some tips

    • ThinkDog! Foundation Course, Recommended Reading List
  • 2

    Module #1: The Dog by Your Side

    • 1.1 Canine behavioural evolution

    • 1.2 Basic care - a heirarchy of needs

    • 1.3 The emotional life of dogs

    • ThinkDog! Foundation. Module One Assignment

    • Help! I'm having a panic - should I submit my work?
  • 3

    Module #2: From Puppy to Dog

    • Introduction

    • 2.1 Learning to be a dog – critical phases and the importance of socialisation

    • 2.2 The effects of a lack of socialisation in the critical period

    • The importance of socialisation: Otterhound puppies in rescue

    • 2.3 Habituation

    • 2.4 How Dogs See Each Other

    • 2.5 How Dogs Communicate

    • ThinkDog! Foundation. Module Two Assignment
  • 4

    Module #3: Inside the Dog’s Mind

    • Introduction

    • 3.1 Different breeds – different needs

    • 3.2 How Dogs Learn

    • 3.3 Some training and behaviour myths explored

    • 3.4 Building a relationship that lasts

    • Puppy biting - advice for new owners

    • 3.5 Summary

    • ThinkDog! Foundation. Module Three Assignment
  • 5

    What's next?

    • Congratulations!

    • What's next?

How is the course delivered? 

This course is all online, so you can access it when and wherever you want. You will have 12 months access to the Programme, so you can complete it at your own pace.

The Programme is delivered online via written materials, images and video.

Sarah has also created useful pdf owner guides for you to download and use with clients too… she’s written them, so you don’t have to!

 

What will you gain from this course?

This Programme is not intended to make you into a canine behaviour specialist in just three online foundation Modules (!). However, it is designed to give you useful skills and confidence and as a launch pad into further study if you choose.