Emotional Wellbeing in the Domestic Dog PDF

Emotional Wellbeing In The Domestic Dog Book Pdf

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Emotional Wellbeing in the Domestic Dog explores how the expectations placed on pet dogs can sometimes compromise their emotional wellbeing, despite their role as valued family members. The book examines common sources of stress, pain, and unmet needs, and presents an alternative, holistic approach that prioritizes the dog’s emotional experience throughout life.

Focusing on the role of veterinary and behavioural professionals, the book addresses practical areas such as health optimization, pain reduction, daily routines, handling, and the influence of environment on behaviour. Key themes include normal dog behaviour, the concept of high welfare, and behaviour management strategies that centre the dog’s perspective, making this a valuable professional resource with strong relevance to client and owner guidance.

Who This Book Is For

Veterinary professionals
Canine behaviourists and trainers
Animal welfare practitioners
Professionals involved in companion animal care

Recommended Book:

Canine Behaviour in Mind: Applying Behavioural Science to Our Lives with Dogs

Table of Contents

Contributors
Acknowledgements
Preface
Chapter 1 — Emotional Wellbeing and Dogs
- Introduction
- The UK Dog Demographic
- Expectation Versus Reality
- Cost
- Behaviour
- Conclusion
Chapter 2 — Emotional Wellbeing and Animal Ethics
- Introduction
- What Is Welfare and How It Is Measured
- The Five Welfare Needs
- The Animal Welfare Assessment Grid (AWAG)
- Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
- Animal Ethics
- Conclusion
Chapter 3 — The History of Dogs
- Introduction
- The Domestication of Dogs
- Genetic and Hormonal Changes
- Behavioural Changes Through Domestication
- Modern Implications of Domestication
- Free-Ranging Dogs
- Conclusion
Chapter 4 — Emotional Wellbeing Starts with the Right Dog
- Introduction
- Choosing a Dog Breeder
- Rescue and Rehoming
- The Right Breed
- Physical Considerations
- Behavioural Implications
- Natural Behaviours
- Conclusion
Chapter 5 — Traumatized Dogs
- Trauma in Dogs
- General Trauma-Informed Care Principles
- Overseas Rescue Dogs
- Puppy Farms
- Dogs Impacted by Criminal Activity
- The Three Pillars of Trauma-Informed Care
- Case Vignette: Jerry
- Real-Life Application
Chapter 6 — Emotional Wellbeing While Learning
- How Dogs Learn
- Classical and Operant Conditioning
- Training Methods and Ethical Considerations
- LIMA and LIFE Frameworks
- An Optimum State for Learning
- Arousal, Emotions, and Distractions
- Conclusion
Chapter 7 — Emotional Wellbeing in the Home
- Human–Dog Relationships
- Children, Visitors, and Routine
- Environmental Predictability
- Leaving a Dog Alone
- Living with Other Animals
- Safe Spaces and Enrichment
Chapter 8 — Emotional Wellbeing Outdoors
- Natural Behaviours and Enrichment
- Sniffing, Play, and Breed-Specific Behaviour
- Reactivity and Confidence Building
- Muzzle Training
- Dog Encounters and Social Interactions
- Car Travel and Associated Stress
- Conclusion
Chapter 9 — The Link Between Physical and Emotional Wellbeing
- Pain and Behaviour
- Veterinary Perspectives on Welfare
- Musculoskeletal, Gastrointestinal, and Cognitive Health
- Improving Welfare During Handling
- Low Stress Handling and Cooperative Care
- Case Vignette: Mara
- Conclusion
Appendix A
Index