5 thoughts on “Interview with Dr Ian Dunbar, founder of The Association of Pet Dog Trainer”
Interesting to hear the focus on functional rewards for dogs. Intrigued by the food/bribery reference? Dr.Dunbar believes in fading food rewards quickly otherwise it’s akin to bribery?
I’m curious…what is the difference between the APDT and the IMDT and why would a dog trainer choose to be a member of one over the other?
I ask this question because when looking for a dog trainer, trainers seem to be members of either the APDT or the IMDT and both organisations promote kind, fair and effective animal training based on an understanding of science and application of sound ethics. What, if any, are the differences between the organisations?
Glasgow Dog Training By Dog Behaviourist John McGuigan 
Interesting to hear the focus on functional rewards for dogs. Intrigued by the food/bribery reference? Dr.Dunbar believes in fading food rewards quickly otherwise it’s akin to bribery?
When he says we then have to rely on it and that the dog will not perform without food then yes.
I’m curious…what is the difference between the APDT and the IMDT and why would a dog trainer choose to be a member of one over the other?
I ask this question because when looking for a dog trainer, trainers seem to be members of either the APDT or the IMDT and both organisations promote kind, fair and effective animal training based on an understanding of science and application of sound ethics. What, if any, are the differences between the organisations?
It’s just trainer’s personal preference as to what organisation they join and whether they qualify.
Thanks for taking the time to reply.