Redefining Dog Aggression with Dr. Daniel Mills

In the season finale of The Bitey End of the Dog, we sit down with Dr. Daniel Mills, a leading authority in clinical animal behavior, to unearth the complexities of canine aggression. Dr. Mills challenges the conventional wisdom that labels dogs as aggressive, advocating instead for an objective observation of their behaviors. 

Our journey continues with an exploration of the emotional lives of dogs, guided by the influential work of Jaak Panksepp. We discuss how miscategorizing aggression can lead to misunderstandings and ineffective solutions. Dr. Mills emphasizes the importance of distinguishing context, motivation, and emotion to address behavioral issues effectively. We also touch on the broader impact of training techniques, revealing how addressing emotional states like frustration can resolve a multitude of behavior problems!

About Daniel:
"I am a RCVS, European and ASAB recognised specialist in clinical animal behaviour, as such I have been developing and exploring new interventions for behaviour problems, such as: The use of semiochemicals to control the emotional reaction of animals (pheromonatherapy) The use of mirrors to control stereotypic weaving in horses Psychometric profiling of animal behaviour Over the last 25 years, I have led the development of what has become known as the "Psychobiological approach" to clinical animal behaviour at Lincoln. This synthesises contemporary behavioural biology and psychology with neuroscience to develop a systematic scientific approach to the assessment of problem behaviour in animals. I still consult at the University Animal Behaviour Clinic (https://animalbehaviourclinic.lincoln.ac.uk/) I have a strong research interest in the comparative psychology underpinning problem behaviour, particularly emotionality and how this contributes to individual differences. This links both my applied and fundamental research, for example by examining how we and non-human animals recognise and respond to the emotional state of another More recently I have had opportunities to scientifically explore my interests in the potential value of our relationships with animals. My research in this area focuses on the benefits from pet keeping using a multidisciplinary approach, for example collaborations with biologists, health care professionals, psychologists, lawyers and economists. Recent projects include: The effect of pet dogs on human health and well-being Investigations into animal emotion Semiochemical signals in the dog Improving performance in scent detection dogs External influences on human decision makign that impact animal welfare In 2022 I was listed by Stanford University in their data base of the top 1% of cited scientists globally. In addition to accepting students on funded projects (generally advertised on the University sites and findaphd.com) I accept self-funding post-graduate research students. Please contact me directly for an informal chat if this is of interest to you. "

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