What we’ll geek out about

In this course, you’ll learn the science behind the development and effective treatment of canine fears, phobias, and fear-based aggression. We’ll cover the basics of classical conditioning, methods for decreasing fear, the roles biology and emotion play in behavioral issues stemming from fear, the role of stress, and more.

We’ll cover all kinds of fear-related topics including:

• The basics of classical conditioning*
• Distinguishing between classical and instrumental conditioning
• Factors influencing the strength of fear learning
• Biological factors influencing learning
• The science of various techniques for reducing fear including extinction and counter-conditioning
• The influence of stress on fear and treatment of fear
• The neurobiology of fear

This course covers scientific research and theory with many applications to working directly with dogs. It is not a hands-on course designed to take you through every step of the process for behavior modification. Rather it provides you with a strong understanding of how fear works and how it applies to dogs to enhance your existing approach or lay the groundwork for moving into behavior modification of fear and fear-related behaviors.