Understand Impulsivity and Become More Skilled at Working with Impulsive Dogs Presented by Alexandra Santos

CEUs: PPAB 1.5, CCPDT 1, IAABC 1

When we talk about impulsive behavior, we are inclined to take the simplistic approach that it will be brought under control if the dog just learns to wait for things.

But what if there are biological factors interfering with the dog’s ability to learn impulse control? Shouldn’t we, perhaps, be looking at impulsivity as a trait rather than as a behavior choice? Shouldn’t we also consider that, in the process of teaching a dog impulse control, we may set such high standards that he is set up for failure?

This presentation focuses on different types of impulsivity (cognitive and motor); the nature of long-term impulsivity; the role of serotonin and dopamine in impulsivity; the various symptoms or signs of impulsivity, and games for teaching impulse control. Alexandra will also share the guidelines she uses for working with impulsive dogs.

Learning Objectives

• Learn the characteristics of impulsivity
• Recognize signs of impulsivity
• Become acquainted with some games that will teach impulse control
• How to apply differential reinforcement effectively
• Guidelines for working with impulsive dogs

About Your Presenter

       

Alexandra Santos

Alexandra Santos is a professional canine behavior consultant and trainer, with formal education through The Animal Care College in the U.K. where she graduated with honors for the Diploma of Advanced Canine Psychology, and through The Companion Animal Sciences Institute where she graduated with distinction for the Diploma of Advanced Dog Training.

She is the author of the books “Puppy Problems” and “Puppy Training: How to housetrain your puppy effectively”, and has also authored and co-authored several articles for the Journal of Applied Companion Animal Behavior and for the International Institute for Applied Companion Animal Behavior.

Alexandra lives and works in Lisbon, Portugal, has been a presenter at several seminars in Portugal and Brazil on positive reinforcement-based training, regularly presents webinars for the Pet Professional Guild, is a professor at Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias and provides individual coaching for dogs and their people.