Minding Dogs

Cynophile education and dog training: consultancy to enhance the human-dog relationship with entertaining activities: nosework, mobility and didactic walks

Cynophile education according to cognitive-zooanthropologic approach. Modern cognitive ethology states that the dog is the main protagonist of his learning process. His subjectivity (emotions, competencies, history) permits and influences this process. The learning model starts with the identification of a target out of reach; the subject will use his skills and previous experiences to analyse the problem and find a solution. During this process the dog acquires new knowledge adapting the existing information he has to solve the problem. Therefore to start a learning process the dog should always be motivated and work in a positive environment. Zooanthropology considers dog-human relationship as central and preliminary to any training; learning is possible only in an affectionate and collaborative relationship with the human partner. Thus, the dog's well-being is paramount.