There are no bad dogs in the world – The episode ‘My dog is a vicious dog’ will be broadcast on EBS1TV at 10:50 pm on Friday, November 15th.
Rottweilers and their guardians gathered at a dog theme park in Gyeonggi-do. This is to prepare for the new fierce dog temperament evaluation that will be implemented from April 27 this year following the revision of the Animal Protection Act. The ‘Ferocious Dog Temperament Evaluation’ is a system that evaluates how a fierce dog responds to 12 unexpected situations, that is, its aggression and sociability. However, if the aggression is severe enough to fail the evaluation, dog owners may be subject to euthanasia after deliberation, so they are very worried and anxious. Moreover, everyone agrees that it is excessive to require neutering of vicious dogs regardless of temperament evaluation. What efforts should we make to prevent dog bite accidents and allow vicious dogs to live together as companions? We talk with Rottweiler guardians who are preparing for a vicious dog temperament assessment about the realistic difficulties they face and the perspectives they would like to see differently about vicious dogs.
Why did the cute youngest Rottweiler, Heet, suddenly stop while taking a walk?
A month ago, Rottweiler Heet’s family moved into a single-family home in Gyeonggi-do. Although Heet has grown in size, since he is a fierce dog, dog cafes and playgrounds are not allowed, so we moved to create a yard where he can run around comfortably. And to socialize Heet, the family made efforts from a young age, such as going to crowded places or intentionally inviting acquaintances. Thanks to this, Heet is playing the role of the cute youngest child to his father, mother, and two daughters. However, to strangers, it was just a large and scary-looking vicious dog, so the family was always careful. To avoid disturbing neighbors, it is common practice to install a screen on the wall and wait for people or small dogs to pass by when taking a walk. Families say that although it is necessary to change perspectives and perceptions of vicious dogs, it is also important for guardians to take good care of them themselves. However, there are many concerns about the newly implemented vicious dog temperament evaluation and mandatory neutering surgery. What are their concerns?
Rottweiler hammer gets excited when he sees unfamiliar dogs. How is he prepared for temperament evaluation?
A factory located in a sparsely populated area in Gyeonggi-do. Rottweiler siblings Hammer and Mimi live here. They are also living in a factory with few people on purpose to avoid attention and conflict over vicious dogs. Hammer and Mimi not only spend peaceful days with less contact with strangers or external stimulation than in the city, but also look no different from other dogs through constant communication with their guardians. However, not long ago, the guardian received an unexpected call from the local government. In order to obtain a breeding permit for a vicious dog, you must undergo neutering surgery and undergo a dog temperament evaluation. both Hammer and Mimi have completed neutering surgery. However, Hammer guardians say that the temperament evaluation of vicious dogs is not only daunting but also scary. The reason is that Hammer gets excited when he sees an unfamiliar dog. The guardian of Hammer is deeply worried that he might get excited and fail during the evaluation. What kind of preparation should one make for a vicious dog temperament evaluation?
Training to prepare for a fierce dog temperament assessment with Teacher Seol! Can Heet and Hammer get through?
Two families, Rottweilers Heet and Hammer, gathered together for fierce dog temperament evaluation training. First, Heet, who was trying the fierce dog temperament evaluation items for the first time, began training the 12 temperament evaluation items one by one. Heet tries things like being touched by strangers, being lured with a ball, and encountering unfamiliar dogs. Heet has been well socialized and trained, but this is his first time properly taking the fierce dog temperament test. Will Heet be able to safely pass the 12 items of the fierce dog temperament test? Next it’s the Rottweiler hammer’s turn. Among the 12 items, the biggest challenge for Hammer is encountering unfamiliar dogs. What will Hammer look like when he meets an unfamiliar dog? A special solution from teacher Seol, a veterinarian specializing in dog behavior correction, to prepare for the fierce dog temperament assessment! The episode ‘They say my pet dog is a fierce dog’ will be broadcast on EBS 1TV at 10:50 pm on Friday, November 15, 2024. You can check it here.
Economy Queen Reporter Park Yu-mi Photo EBS [세상에 나쁜 개는 없다]
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What are the key factors that influence a dog’s behavior and temperament beyond breed labels?
Interview: Time.news Editor with Dog Behavior Expert Dr. Jane Thompson
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Thompson! We’re thrilled to have you with us today, especially as many dog lovers are grappling with the recent changes in regulations regarding so-called “vicious” dogs. The new temperament evaluation system is creating quite a stir among dog owners. What are your initial thoughts on this initiative?
Dr. Jane Thompson: Thank you for having me! It’s a complex issue, certainly. While the intent is to ensure public safety and reduce dog bite incidents, labeling breeds as “vicious” can be misleading. It’s essential to recognize that a dog’s behavior is heavily influenced by its upbringing, socialization, and the environment it lives in.
Time.news Editor: That’s an interesting perspective. The article mentions that owners of Rottweilers, for example, are particularly anxious about the impact of these evaluations and mandatory neutering. What are some common misconceptions people have about breeds often labeled as aggressive?
Dr. Jane Thompson: Many people think that certain breeds are inherently dangerous. However, aggression is not solely determined by breed; it’s shaped significantly by the individual dog’s experiences and training. A Rottweiler, like any dog, can be well-socialized and trained to be non-aggressive. It’s crucial to focus on the dog’s history and temperament rather than the breed label alone.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the importance of socialization. In the article, some owners express that they’ve gone to great lengths to socialize their dogs. How essential is this process, and what recommendations would you give to the owners who are anxious about the temperament evaluations?
Dr. Jane Thompson: Socialization is critical. It’s about exposing the dog to a variety of people, environments, and experiences. For those preparing for temperament evaluations, starting early, being patient, and incorporating positive reinforcement during these outings is key. Owners should also be proactive in creating positive experiences in controlled situations. This builds confidence in the dog and fosters a more stable temperament.
Time.news Editor: The article raises the concern about mandatory neutering regardless of whether a dog passes the temperament evaluation. What are your thoughts on this requirement?
Dr. Jane Thompson: Mandating neutering can be seen as excessive, especially without assessing each dog’s individual temperament and behavior. Neutering can help reduce certain behavioral issues, but it’s not a catch-all solution. Each dog should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, as many well-behaved dogs might not need such interventions. Regulations should ideally offer flexibility and consider the unique circumstances of each dog and its guardian.
Time.news Editor: That’s a fair point. The guardians in the article emphasize their role in responsible ownership. From your experience, what are some vital practices that dog owners should adopt to promote safety and positive interactions with their pets?
Dr. Jane Thompson: Responsible dog ownership starts with education. Owners should educate themselves about canine behavior and the specific needs of their dogs. Regular training, socialization opportunities, and clear communication are essential. It’s also important to advocate for their dog’s well-being and address any behavior issues promptly rather than waiting for regulations to dictate what they should do. Building a community around responsible ownership can further help to change negative perceptions of certain breeds.
Time.news Editor: You’ve shared some valuable insights today, Dr. Thompson. As we wrap up, what message would you like to convey to people who are worried about their “vicious” dogs under the new regulations?
Dr. Jane Thompson: I want them to understand that their dogs are individuals, not defined by breed or societal labels. With proper care, training, and responsible ownership, many dogs labeled as “vicious” can lead happy, fulfilling lives alongside their families. The focus should be on education and community support to foster better relationships between humans and dogs.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your time and expertise, Dr. Thompson. We appreciate your contributions to this important conversation.
Dr. Jane Thompson: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such a vital topic for the well-being of both dogs and their owners.