The Effects of Fitness Training on Working Dog Behavior: Two Case Studies

Abstract

Working dogs perform complex tasks that require both physical and behavioral soundness. Two case studies demonstrate how fitness training moderated arousal levels, facilitated training, and improved performance measures in different situations. Fitness training can be beneficial when integrated as part of a working dog's training regimen because it can have a significant influence on their overall health, behavior, and ability to perform their working role effectively.

Keywords: Arousal; Behavior; Conditioning; Fitness; Operant conditioning; Training; Working dog.