“The toe bone connected to the heel bone,
The heel bone connected to the foot bone,
The foot bone connected to the leg bone... “
Well not really and there’s a bit more to it than that.... tendons, muscles and ligaments
for starters...
The Comparative Anatomy and Physiology module is not only about muscles and bones
(and how they work) but also the organ systems (and how they work) and the special
senses...
As well as learning about the dog’s anatomy and physiology you’ll be learning about
the differences, and the similarities, between their make-up and ours.
Anatomy, and the structure of it, has a huge impact on communication between not
only dogs with other dogs, but also dogs to humans and vice versa; that, along with
the physiology aspect, can affect a dogs learning potential hugely.
Recent years have seen a dramatic influx in the training equipment used on our dogs
and much of the so called ‘gentle’ equipment, when anatomy and physiology is taken
into account, isn’t quite what it appears and so, during the workshop phase, equipment
is examined and discussed.
This module is aimed at anybody who has an interaction with the dog; whether that
is the dog lover who wants to take their knowledge further either with their own
dog; is looking to venture into the world of the dog trainer; or is an experienced
trainer looking to gain more knowledge about the animal that they work with...
The module, split into three phases, can be undertaken at any time and over any reasonable
period within a maximum of six months from the date of registration and culminates
in a fantastic one-day workshop at the Kennel Club Education centre in Stoneleigh,
Warwickshire.
Phase 1 (Distance learning)
This includes initial work-based analysis and research. This also provides you with
an opportunity to learn about basic dog anatomy and physiology (skeletal system,
organ systems), research basic anatomy and points of the dog (stifle, stop pad etc.,)
and discover the special senses.
As part of your learning journey for Phase 1 you’re required to conduct secondary
research via the Internet, library and other sources such as books and journals on
specific methods used for the training and control of dogs.
Please note that you must allow a minimum of six weeks study of Phases 1 and 2 before
your workshop date (Phase 3).
Phase 2 (also distance learning)
This Phase introduces you to the muscular system, the brain and the all important
proprioception system.
Comparative anatomy and physiology is researched and discussed in preparation for
the workshop on phase 3.
Phase 3 (Workshop)
This workshop is a relaxed, fun day getting to grips with the anatomy, physiology
and movement of the dog.
This phase includes:
Reviewing the points of anatomy, muscular & skeletal system
Comparative anatomy and physiology
Discussing the Special Senses
Discussing tension areas including basic fascial and muscular tension release
The tail; position, emotion and tension
How training equipment can affect anatomy and physiology and vice versa
Muscles in movement
Posture and learning
The workshop is held at the Kennel Club Building and coursework for Phase 1 & 2 Theory
must be completed before Workshop attendance will be accepted.
Post-workshop a written summary of what you have learnt from the three phases combined.
