CDT Behavior Modification Protocols 2

Question 1

A dog lunges at strangers on leash but is calm when off-leash in a yard. Which protocol best addresses this context-specific reactivity?

Accepted Answer

Systematic desensitization combined with counter-conditioning on leash

Answer

Systematic desensitization paired with counter-conditioning changes the dog's emotional response to strangers specifically in the triggering on-leash context.

Question 2

What is 'trigger stacking' and why is it clinically significant in behavior modification?

Accepted Answer

Accumulation of stressors that lowers a dog's threshold for reactive behavior

Answer

Trigger stacking occurs when multiple stressors accumulate, lowering the dog's threshold so that a minor trigger causes a disproportionately large reaction.

Question 3

During a desensitization session, the dog begins yawning, lip-licking, and turning away. The trainer should:

Accepted Answer

Reduce the stimulus intensity and allow the dog to decompress

Answer

Yawning, lip-licking, and gaze aversion are calming signals indicating stress; the trainer must reduce stimulus intensity to stay below the dog's threshold.

Question 4

Which of the following best describes 'operant counterconditioning'?

Accepted Answer

Teaching a dog to perform an incompatible behavior in the presence of a feared stimulus

Answer

Operant counterconditioning trains the dog to perform a specific, incompatible behavior (e.g., sit) when the trigger appears, replacing the fear response with a trained response.

Question 5

A dog has been conditioned to associate the crate with punishment. Which approach is most appropriate to reverse this association?

Accepted Answer

Begin classical counterconditioning by delivering high-value treats near and inside the crate

Answer

Classical counterconditioning replaces the negative emotional association with the crate by pairing the crate's presence with high-value rewards.

(CDT) Certified Dog Trainer Practice Test

(CDT) Certified Dog Trainer Practice Test

CDT Behavior Modification Protocols 2