For most of history, humans have regarded dogs as animals with specific jobs.
But in recent history, these animals have become pets only.
Is that to blame for many of the “problems” and “challenges” we face with our dogs?
In this episode, Kim Brophey will help us make sense of why the viewing of our dogs as pets may actually be the root of many “problem behaviors”.
And of course, Kim will break down what you can do today to help your pup be more successful in a human-centric world!
First, let’s define applied ethology👇
What is Applied Ethology?
The ISAE defines applied ethology this way ⬇️
The study of applied animal behavior contributes to a greater understanding of the interactions between humans and other animals and helps to create a better balance between animal welfare and the requirements that humans have of other animals
Applied ethologists work on a wide variety of animal species and topics: e.g. the management and welfare of livestock; the interactions between humans and companion animals; the impacts of housing on the behavior and welfare of zoo and laboratory animals.
Simply put, applied ethology is the study of animal behavior in captivity.
Now, let’s meet Kim!
Meet Kim Brophey: Applied Ethologist and Professional Dog Trainer
Kim Brophey is an applied ethologist and professional dog trainer with decades of experience.
Here are many of Kim’s top accomplishments, credentials, and works.
-Applied Ethologist, member of the International Society for Applied Ethology
-Owner of the awarded Dog Door Behavior Center - www.dogdoorbehaviorcenter.com
-Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) / Certified Member - International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
-Board member - Asheville Humane Society
-Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
-Member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT)
-APDT Outstanding Trainer of the Year 2009
Author of Meet Your Dog The Game-Changing Guide to Understanding Your Dog's Behavior (2018)
-TED talk presenter - The Problem With Treating a Dog Like a Pet - • The Problem with Treat...
As you can see, Kim deeply understands dogs and I promise you’ll learn a LOT in this episode!
Kim’s Background & Initial Love of Animals
Kim grew up in an area where many dogs roamed free. This gave her real-life exposure to how dogs naturally behave, from a very young age.
She also grew up with dogs and always loved the companionship of animals.
What Applied Ethologists Do
As mentioned above, applied ethologists study domesticated animals.
Their goal is to understand how our species colliding with other animals affect animal welfare and how they live.
Part of Kim’s work has been to understand how the changes in our dog’s environment (ie domestication) play a role in their behavior, our interactions with them, and more.
The Human Role in Dog Breeding & Behavior
For centuries we have bred dogs to perform specific tasks like assisting with hunting, herding, and rodent control. But, in recent years, many of those task-centric jobs have gone away for dogs!
Of course, those genetics and traits still exist, which can create “problems” (at least in our eyes).
We in a way have, unfortunately, created a “void” in our dogs’ lives. They have an innate desire to, for example, herd livestock.
But now those same breeds aren’t able to.
And when they showcase some of those related behaviors (chasing other animals, nipping at our heels, etc.) we become frustrated and overwhelmed with their “bad behavior”.
Part of Kim’s hope for us humans is to better understand our dog’s deep-seated behaviors and find enriching experiences for them to express those behaviors in a healthy way.
How Can We Give Dogs Proper Outlets?
One of the best ways to help your dog succeed is to research and understand your dog’s history and “job history”.
If your dog was used to herd, you can try things like Treibball!
For retrievers, focus on using more fetch in your dog’s daily life.
Do you have a terrier? Try creating a dig box for your pup to use every day!
While it may not be a perfect solution, trying to tap into your dog’s natural instincts is a powerful way to improve their mental well-being and behavior.
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Chapters:
00:00 - Intro
00:45 - Meet Kim Brophey
01:45 - Kim’s Initial Love for Animals
03:48 - What is an Applied Ethologist?
09:10 - Many Dogs No Longer Have “Jobs”
12:30 - How Can We Give Dogs Proper Outlets?
16:15 - Does Dog & Breed History Matter?
21:13 - Even Dog Professionals Have Struggles
23:15 - Genetics & Breeds Matter!
25:39 - Kim’s Final Tip (you need to hear this!)