Dog Psychology and Behaviour Advice in the Media
I often appear on news channels and podcasts to address public misconceptions about canine behaviour. These discussions are not just interviews; they are attempts to shift our national understanding of dog psychology.
When is the right age to bring a puppy home? On All India Radio, Akashvani, I explain why it's best to wait until a puppy is 60 to 90 days old. This time with the mother is crucial for their early development and learning.
Here on News 9, I discuss the Supreme Court's verdict on stray dogs. I explain the difference between true aggression and other behaviors like maternal or hormonal aggression, and why a balanced, scientific approach is necessary.
In this clip from the Yanna Podcast, I discuss a common misconception about dog training. The goal isn't for the dog to listen to the trainer; it's to teach the owner how to get their dog to listen to them. Your participation is the key to success.
During this News 9 panel, I explain the science behind pack behavior in stray dogs. Removing dogs from an ecosystem can lead to more significant problems, like an increase in rodents. The solution lies in education and managing the pack leaders.
On the "Just Curious" podcast with Rapid Rashmi, I share a story about a Labrador that learned not to jump on the dining table. It wasn't from direct training, but by learning social rules from other dogs at my training school.
Why is training at a dog school often more effective than at-home training? In this podcast with Rapid Rashmi, I use the analogy of children who studied at home during COVID to explain the importance of socialization for dogs.
How do dogs decide who to respect in a household? On Rapid Rashmi's podcast, I explain that dogs are masters of observation. They watch the family's dynamics and naturally respect the person everyone else in the house respects.
About this collection
You will notice that in my media appearances, I rarely talk about 'tricks.' Instead, I focus on the root causes of behaviour: fear, pack dynamics, and owner communication. Whether I am discussing stray dog aggression on a news panel or explaining prey drive on a podcast, the goal is always to move the conversation from 'what the dog did' to 'why the dog did it.' If you have seen me on television or heard me on a show, you know my philosophy: if you understand the psychology, you do not need magic to fix the behaviour.
My media work is an extension of my clinic. When I speak on platforms like All India Radio or News 9, I address specific societal problems that pet owners face daily.
Why I Focus on Psychology
Many owners come to me with a 'quick fix' mindset. They want me to stop their dog from barking or jumping in a single session. However, as I explain in my interviews, behaviour is a symptom. If your dog is pulling on the leash, it is often not stubbornness but anxiety or a lack of clarity in your communication. I use these media opportunities to break down these misconceptions using scientific concepts like:
- The Three Types of Fear: How experienced, learned, and associated fear shapes an animal's reaction.
- Pack Leadership: Understanding that aggression often stems from a lack of direction, and why you must become the calm, consistent leader your dog needs.
- Breed Logic: Every dog has an evolutionary history. Whether it is a Mudhol Hound or a German Shepherd, their instincts drive their daily actions. Ignoring these instincts leads to conflict.
Correcting the Narrative
On national platforms, I also challenge the common 'menace' narrative surrounding dogs. My position is scientific: removing dogs from an ecosystem is never a permanent solution. I advocate for understanding the pack leader and addressing the behaviour at the source, rather than resorting to fear-based reactions.
If you are struggling with your pet, do not look for a trainer who teaches tricks. Look for someone who can help you read your dog's body language and understand its mind. My consultations follow this exact approach—identifying the root cause so that you, not just me, can build a respectful relationship with your dog.
Dog Guru
I am Dr. Amrut, and my work is rooted in the belief that every dog is a teacher. I do not train dogs; I educate owners to understand the canine mind. If you are ready to stop patching up symptoms and start solving root issues, we should talk.
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