Beyond Behaviour : The Neuroscience of Why Dogs Do What They Do

This unique programme takes behaviour practitioners beyond traditional training theory and into the fascinating world of canine neuroscience. Combining over 25 years of clinical behavioural experience with current scientific understanding, Jo Croft explores how brain chemistry, hormones, pain, emotional regulation and environmental influences shape behaviour, decision-making and behavioural change.

Through FOUR LIVE INTERACTIVE ZOOM SESSIONS, delegates will challenge conventional thinking, develop a deeper understanding of behavioural presentations and learn to view behaviour through a far broader clinical lens.

This is not a course about teaching dogs.

It is a course about understanding what is happening inside the dog before behaviour ever reaches the surface.

ZOOM 1  –  The Chemical Brain: Pharmaceuticals, Pain and Behaviour

Behaviour does not occur in isolation.

This session explores the influence of pharmaceuticals, pain and physical wellbeing on behavioural presentation. Delegates will examine how behavioural medications work, when they may be appropriate, and the importance of collaboration between behaviour practitioners and veterinary professionals. She will also discuss the behavioural considerations involved when starting, adjusting, or reducing medication, ensuring that welfare remains at the centre of any intervention plan.

The session will also explore how pain alters behaviour, emotional resilience and learning, helping practitioners recognise the often subtle signs that discomfort may be contributing to behavioural concerns.

ZOOM 2  –  Emotional Regulation, Stress and Trigger Stacking

Why do some dogs appear capable of coping one moment and completely overwhelmed the next?

This session explores emotional regulation, stress physiology, trigger stacking and the neurological processes involved when dogs move from thinking to reacting.

Delegates will gain a greater understanding of arousal, behavioural thresholds, nervous system activation and the practical implications for behaviour modification.

ZOOM 3  –  Hormones, Development and Behaviour

Hormones influence far more than reproduction.

This session examines the role reproductive hormones play in behavioural development, emotional regulation, confidence, social behaviour and behavioural maturity.

Jo will discuss the behavioural implications of neutering, common misconceptions and the factors practitioners should consider when advising clients and veterinary professionals.

ZOOM 4  –  Behaviour Change: Pattern Interruption and Neuroplasticity

Lasting behaviour change is about far more than interrupting unwanted behaviour.

This session explores habit formation, behavioural pathways, neuroplasticity and why some behaviour modification programmes succeed whilst others fail.

Delegates will learn how behavioural patterns become established, why conflict can occur during rehabilitation and how neuroscience can be used to support more effective intervention strategies.

Receive a CIDBT & CPD Certificate in ‘The Science of Canine Behaviour: A Neuroscience Perspective’ 

Cost for full course £595.00

Or for more informatin contact team@cidbt.org.uk