Amidst growing concerns and controversies surrounding dog breeds and ownership, the British College of Canine Studies has introduced a free online course aimed at dog owners. The College, renowned for its canine professional courses since 2010, offers valuable insights and education to promote responsible dog ownership and safety.
Founder James Conroy, speaking from the College’s headquarters in the Cotswolds, expressed his concerns about the increasing incidents involving dangerous dogs and the need for proactive measures. He highlighted that despite calls for change and amendments to breed-specific legislation (BSL), the situation remains challenging.
Conroy emphasised that the focus should shift from blaming specific dog breeds to addressing the role of dog owners and the individual behavior of dogs. He stressed the need for better education, particularly for owners of large and powerful breeds, to ensure responsible ownership, improved understanding of dog behavior, and enhanced safety.
The Responsible Dog Owner (RDO) course, introduced by the British College of Canine Studies, consists of six short units that participants can study from the comfort of their homes at their own pace. Upon completion, participants receive a digital certificate to acknowledge their commitment to responsible dog ownership.
Police data reveals a concerning rise in the number of out-of-control dogs, with 479 seized under the Dangerous Dogs Act last year, a notable increase from previous years. Some breeds, such as the American bully, have seen a significant uptick in seizures.
Conroy also questioned the advice provided by prominent animal charities, including Dogs Trust and the RSPCA, suggesting that their focus on positive reinforcement may have led to an overemphasis on ignoring unwanted behaviors in dogs. He argued for a more balanced approach to dog behavior and training, emphasising the importance of natural dog communication cues.
The British College of Canine Studies offers a wide range of home study courses covering various aspects of dog-related topics, from behavior to health and nutrition. These courses include accredited, CPD, and Ofqual-regulated qualifications. To access the free Responsible Dog Owner Course, typically priced at £9.99, interested individuals can visit dogcourses.co.uk, add the RDO course to their cart, and use the code RDOFREE during checkout for a 100% discount. Please note that this code is applicable only to the Responsible Dog Owner Course and cannot be used for other courses.
