Bart De Gols
Keeping Your Canine Cool: Expert Tips for Safe ...

As a cynologist and animal behaviorist I've worked with thousands of dogs in all kinds of conditions. One of the most common mistakes I see well-intentioned owners make is over-exercising their furry companions in hot weather. Dogs are eager to please and many will keep pushing themselves to the point of heatstroke to make us happy. It's up to us to know their limits and keep them safe.

In this in-depth article, I'll share my expertise on the risks of exercising dogs in high temperatures, how to prevent heat-related illnesses, and what to do if your pup does overheat. I'll cover everything from checking surface temperatures to the importance of hydration and cooling products. By the end, you'll have all the knowledge you need to safely enjoy summer activities with your canine friend. Let's dive in!

Keeping Your Canine Cool: Expert Tips for Safe Summer Fun with Your Dog
Animal Behavioral Sciene , Training Techniques, Behavior Modification
Bart De Gols
The Engagement Illusion: How True Connection ...

As a cynologist I have dedicated my life to understanding and improving the relationship between humans and their canine companions. I have worked with countless dogs and their owners, and I have seen firsthand the incredible power of true engagement in transforming the way we train and interact with our dogs.

But what exactly is true engagement, and how does it differ from the kind of engagement that most people are familiar with? This is a question that I have grappled with throughout my career, and it is one that I believe is crucial for anyone who wants to build a deep, meaningful bond with their dog. In this article, we will explore the scientific principles that underlie true engagement in dog training. We will delve into the realms of psychology, neuroscience, and ethology to understand the mechanisms at play in fostering this deep connection. By understanding these principles, dog owners and trainers can move beyond simplistic notions of training and instead focus on building a relationship that unlocks the full potential of the human-canine bond.

The Engagement Illusion: How True Connection Differs from Superficial Responsiveness in Dog Training
Animal Behavioral Sciene , Behavior Modification
Bart De Gols
The Angry Brain: A Neuroscientific Expedition ...

In this article, I embark on a deep dive into the complex world of canine aggression, exploring the intricate tapestry of neurological, genetic, environmental, and experiential factors that shape a dog's propensity for aggressive behavior. By synthesizing cutting-edge research from the fields of behavioral neuroscience, ethology, and veterinary medicine, I aim to reframe aggression not as a simple matter of "good" or "bad" dogs, but as a multifaceted phenomenon with deep biological roots. This nuanced perspective, grounded in empathy and scientific understanding, offers a roadmap for moving beyond the simplistic and often counterproductive approaches that have long dominated the conversation around aggressive dogs.

Central to this exploration is a detailed look at the three primary neural pathways that mediate aggressive behavior in dogs: the defensive fear-based pathway, the proactive seeking pathway, and the predatory pathway. Each of these circuits engages distinct brain regions optimized for different aggressive functions and contexts, from the amygdala's rapid threat detection to the hypothalamus's coordination of the chase and kill. By carefully teasing apart these neurological mechanisms and their behavioral manifestations, we can develop a more granular understanding of the diverse motivations and triggers that underlie aggressive acts in dogs.

However, the neurobiology of aggression is only one piece of the puzzle. Equally important are the complex ways in which an individual dog's genes, early life experiences, and moment-to-moment interactions with the environment shape its aggressive responses. From the heritable differences in temperament between dog breeds to the lasting impact of puppyhood trauma or neglect, a wide range of nature-nurture factors can dial a dog's aggression risk up or down. Of particular interest is the powerful role of sex hormones, especially estrogen, in modulating aggressive behavior in both male and female dogs - a critical insight that is often overlooked in spay/neuter decisions. By weaving together these multiple levels of analysis, from the molecular to the societal, I hope to paint a more complete and compassionate picture of the aggressive dog as the product of a perfect storm of interacting variables

The Angry Brain: A Neuroscientific Expedition Into the Depths of Canine Aggression
Personal Reflections
Bart De Gols
Bravo Maestro: How Mozart's Music Transforms ...

In this article, I delve into the profound connection between my professional life as a cynologist, deeply engaged in the rehabilitation of dogs, and my lifelong passion for classical music, spotlighted by last night’s  experience at the Oregon Symphony’s stirring rendition of Mozart’s Requiem. Conducted with zeal by David Danzmayr, this performance prompted me to contemplate the symbiotic relationship between the emotive power of Mozart’s unfinished masterpiece and the essence of my work with dogs. My adventure in classical music began at the young age of seven, when I would eagerly spend my after-school hours at a music academy in Aalst, immersing myself in the history of classical music and dedicating countless hours to learning the trumpet, piano, and organ.

Throughout my career as a cynologist, I’ve been privileged to witness the remarkable transformation in dogs, who, much like the emotive force of the Requiem, move from conditions of severe anxiety, fear, and reactivity to states of happiness and vitality. This process of transformation, driven by consistent patience and a firm belief in their potential for goodness, echoes the emotional depth and ambition of Mozart’s final work. This duality of purpose is personified in my relationship with Falca, my cherished K9 companion. Through shared experiences of adversity and success, Falca and I have cultivated a partnership defined by mutual trust, respect, and a concerted vision, showcasing the powerful and transformative bond that can be forged between humans and animals.

Bravo Maestro: How Mozart's Music Transforms the Human-Canine Bond
Bart De Gols
Beyond Ego: The Transformative Power of ...

While I am enjoying my coffee on this misty Sunday morning, I find myself reflecting deeply on the complex relationship between canines and Homo sapiens. As a cynologist who has dedicated my life to studying canine behavior and psychology, I, Bart de Gols, have gained profound insights into their minds and souls through countless hours spent observing, interacting with, and training dogs. But even more fascinating to me is how we as humans relate to and teach our dogs about ourselves.

It pains me to say it, but I have noticed a pervasive and troubling phenomenon in nearly all forms of dog training: the human ego consistently takes precedence over the dog's needs and wellbeing. Time and time again, I see people putting their own pride, stubbornness, and need for control ahead of truly listening to and learning from their canine companions. They are so attached to their preconceived notions of how a dog should behave and what training methods are "correct" that they close themselves off to new information, ideas, and solutions that could dramatically improve their relationship with their dog.

Beyond Ego: The Transformative Power of Presence in Dog Training

communication

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Canine Clocks: Understanding How Dogs Perceive Time

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Canine Clocks: Understanding How Dogs Perceive Time

The passage of time is a universal experience, yet the way in which it is perceived is anything but uniform across the animal kingdom. The intricate dance of evolution has endowed various species with unique sensory capabilities, allowing them to interpret their surroundings in ways that are perfectly attuned to their ecological niches and survival demands. From the rapid-response world of a buzzing housefly to the more measured pace of a serene sea turtle, time's tempo alters dramatically between species. In this article I will introduce you to fascinating concept of temporal perception, exploring how and why the experience of time can vary so widely among our planet's diverse inhabitants.

Central to our understanding of these perceptual differences is the Critical Flicker Fusion Frequency (CFF), a metric that sheds light on an animal's ability to process visual stimuli over time. With higher CFFs linked to a more acute sense of temporal change, we gain insights into the remarkable adaptations that enable certain animals, like dogs, to perceive rapid movements with astonishing clarity—arguably experiencing the world in what humans might describe as "slow motion."

Join me as I explain the neurological underpinnings and evolutionary factors contributing to this sensory spectrum, offering a glimpse into the varied experiences of time across species. We'll examine the role of predators and prey in shaping these perceptual capabilities, provide illustrative examples from the animal world, and challenge preconceived notions about the relationship between size, lifespan, and the perception of time. Prepare to expand your understanding of reality as we will look through the eyes of creatures great and small, discovering the profound impact temporal perception has on the lives of animals everywhere.

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Human Decoders: Cognitive Processing of Canids in Response to Human Socio-communicative Signals

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Human Decoders: Cognitive Processing of Canids in Response to Human Socio-communicative Signals

In this article I go in-depth on the cognitive processing and communicative abilities of canines, particularly in how they respond to human socio-communicative signals. The conversation begins with a comparison of social structures between wolves and humans, highlighting the complex social systems that both species navigate.

I explain how domestication has led to refined canine abilities to interpret human gestures, such as pointing and gaze following, which are less evident in their wild counterparts or even non-human primates. The domestic dog's evolution has been shaped by selective breeding, enhancing their capacity to understand human emotional states through facial expressions and vocal intonations. This has implications for dog training and welfare, as a dog's ability to comprehend and react to human emotions and commands can be used to foster better human-canine relationships.

The discussion also touches upon social learning in dogs, which is the process by which they acquire behaviors through the observation and emulation of humans and other dogs. This ability to learn socially has been significant in the domestic dog's adaptation to human environments and is a key element in training and behavior modification.

Additionally, I explain the role of chemical signals, such as pheromones, in canine communication. Dogs use their advanced vomeronasal organ (VNO) to detect pheromones, which convey information about reproductive status, territorial boundaries, and individual identity. Hormones, too, play a crucial role in canine behavior, influencing how dogs interact with their environment and other beings based on internal and external stimuli.

Lastly, I summarize how dogs communicate with their environment and other dogs through body language, marking behavior, and the use of various sensory channels. Understanding these communicative methods is essential for enhancing the bond between humans and dogs and promoting positive interactions and training outcomes.

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The Art and Science of Communicating with Dogs: Balancing Training and Relationship Building

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The Art and Science of Communicating with Dogs: Balancing Training and Relationship Building

The intricate dance of communication between humans and dogs is a fascinating interplay of behavioral science and emotional connection. As we seek to train our canine companions, we are often faced with the challenge of how to effectively convey our expectations while also nurturing a bond that transcends mere obedience. This article delves into the nuanced realms of learned irrelevance and its implications for dog training, contrasting it with the undeniable benefits of fostering a strong relationship through verbal communication. Drawing from the wellspring of classical conditioning, canine cognitive research, and the biological underpinnings of social bonding, we will explore how the judicious use of verbal cues can enhance training efficacy, while also examining the role of speech in strengthening the human-dog bond. By integrating the precision required for clear command training with the softening touch of relational dialogue, we can achieve a harmonious balance that enriches the lives of both dogs and their human companions.So let’s unravel the threads of this complex tapestry, weaving together a more cohesive understanding of how to communicate effectively with our beloved pets, ensuring a dynamic that is both disciplined and deeply connected.