As an experienced dog trainer, Du Linjia, 30, doesn't only "teach"dogs-he gives lessons to dog owners too.
With 10 years of experience, he invites owners to train their dogs together with him to change the dogs' behavior.
How does a trainer change a dog's behavior? "One common angry behavior of a dog is growling (低吼)at its owner to protect its food, "Du said. "In such cases, we need to know why. It may think that the owner is there to take its food, which we aim to change. "
"By giving the dog more food while slowly getting closer, the dog begins to believe I can be re- warded(奖励)for letting humans come closer. Problem solved. "
Du believes that a dog trainer should be responsible. The trainer must never give up on any dog.
Empathy(同情心)is important, too-a dog's worst behavior is usually because of misleading actions by its owner. One needs to think from the dog's point of view. Du said a dog trainer needs to be observant (善于观察的)and sensitive enough to notice small changes in the dog's behavior so that they can do what's needed in time.
"The future for dog trainers is promising. "Du said, adding that many customers are now learning how to improve their dogs' behaviors.
