About this Webinar

This course explores the neurodevelopmental processes in dogs, focusing on how brain growth impacts behavioural development. Participants will learn about the development of sensory systems, neuroplasticity, and the role of critical periods in shaping behaviour. The course also covers breed-specific neurodevelopment, the impact of chronic stress, and the development of attention, memory, and sleep. Special attention is given to adolescence and how it affects emotional regulation and risk-taking behaviours in dogs. By understanding these processes, participants will gain practical strategies for supporting healthy behavioural development in dogs, from puppies to adolescence.

Learning Outcomes:

  1. Understand the key stages of brain development and how they influence behaviour in dogs.

  2. Learn about neuroplasticity and its role in behavioural adaptation during critical developmental periods.

  3. Explore the effects of chronic stress on neurodevelopment and behavioural outcomes in dogs.

  4. Identify the role of sleep and its importance in cognitive and emotional development in growing dogs.

  5. Develop strategies to support healthy behavioural development, particularly during adolescence.

Meet your Instructor

Daniel Shaw BSc (Hons), GMBPsS, CDBC is an animal behaviourist with a background in animal behaviour, psychology and neuroscience. As the owner of Animal Behaviour Kent, Daniel supports dogs and cats with behaviour problems, and has a special interest in aggression, frustration, and the effects of trauma on animals. Daniel provides expert witness assessments for legal cases involving the Dangerous Dogs Act and recently spoke in Parliament on the topic of dog bite reform. Daniel also regularly appears in the media, and has been interviewed on LBC News as well as being interviewed for the Guardian. Daniel is a degree qualified psychologist, a certified dog behaviour consultant with the International Association of Animal Behaviour Consultants (IAABC), and is currently obtaining a masters degree in neuroscience.