Bengaluru Pet Owners Turn to Canine Behaviour Therapy Following Lift Incident

New Delhi, India Jul 31, 2026 ALN: In recent times, the city of Bengaluru has witnessed a notable increase in the number of pet owners seeking the expertise of canine behaviour therapists. This trend has been spurred by various factors, not least of which is a growing concern for responsible pet ownership. A significant event that has drawn attention to this issue was the viral video showing a pet dog allegedly attacking a woman inside a lift in Mumbai. This incident has reignited discussions surrounding dog behaviour and the responsibilities of pet owners, prompting many to seek professional guidance to better understand their pets.

The rise in inquiries for behavioural consultations and training in Bengaluru can be attributed to several interrelated factors. One of the primary issues is the conflict that often arises in apartment complexes where many pet owners reside. As urban living becomes increasingly common, the challenges associated with keeping pets in smaller living spaces are becoming more apparent. This has led to a heightened awareness that training transcends merely teaching dogs a few basic commands; it also encompasses a deeper understanding of canine behaviour and the specific needs of dogs living in urban environments.

Vaibhav Mungole, the founder of Dogs Can Do It, reports a significant increase in enquiries, noting a rise of 15-20% over the past year alone, with a more than twofold increase over the last five years. Similarly, Varun Vickraman, co-owner of K9 Gurukul, has observed a staggering growth of 40-50% in enquiries since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. At Fetch Canine Training School, owner C V Franklin has also noted a 15% increase in enquiries in the last year, with nearly half of his clients residing in apartment complexes.

Urban Life Shapes Behaviour

Experts in canine behaviour assert that urban living is often a catalyst for various behavioural issues in dogs. With many dogs now living in apartments that offer limited space, they face fewer opportunities for physical exercise and mental stimulation. This lack of activity can lead to problems such as anxiety and aggression over time. Franklin explains that the confined living conditions can hinder a dog's natural behaviours, contributing to stress and behavioural issues.

Varun concurs with this assessment, highlighting that apartment living presents unique challenges for dog owners. He frequently encounters clients who report issues such as excessive barking, fear of unfamiliar people, and separation anxiety in their pets. One of the critical aspects of managing these issues is establishing clear boundaries within the home. Dogs require designated spaces that they can claim as their own, rather than being allowed to view the entire house as their territory. This demarcation helps in creating a sense of security for the pet.

Beyond Commands

Modern canine behavioural training has evolved to encompass a broader scope than merely teaching commands. It is increasingly recognized that educating the pet owner is just as crucial as working directly with the dog. According to Vaibhav, approximately 80% of behavioural work involves the pet parent. He emphasizes that for lasting behavioural change to occur, owners must be consistent in their approach at home.

Franklin points out a common misconception among pet owners who equate obedience with good behaviour. Rather than focusing solely on commands such as "sit" or "stay," he stresses the importance of understanding canine communication. Building a dog's confidence and helping them regulate their emotions are vital components of effective training. This holistic approach ensures that dogs not only follow commands but also develop a well-rounded temperament.

Focus on Prevention

Another noteworthy trend is the increasing number of first-time dog owners seeking behavioural guidance even before bringing a dog home or during the puppy stage. Vaibhav notes that this proactive approach allows trainers to concentrate on prevention rather than correction. Once problematic behaviours become ingrained, they often require ongoing management, making complete correction difficult.

Early socialization is a crucial element of this preventive strategy. Puppies should be exposed to a variety of environments, visitors, other dogs, and different situations from a young age. These experiences help them become familiar with various stimuli, reducing the likelihood of fear-based reactions later in life. Varun encourages owners to allow their dogs to express their natural behaviours by permitting them to sniff and explore during walks. He argues that restricting these instincts can lead to frustration and behavioural issues.

Choosing the right dog for one’s lifestyle is another critical factor that experts emphasize. Both Vaibhav and Varun caution potential dog owners against selecting high-energy working breeds if they are first-time owners or if their households cannot adequately meet the physical and mental needs of such dogs. Understanding the specific requirements of different breeds is essential for ensuring a harmonious relationship between the pet and the owner.

However, experts are careful to avoid attributing aggression or behavioural problems to specific breeds. Franklin shares his experiences training rottweilers and pit bulls to become companion and therapy dogs, while also noting instances of aggression in labradors. Varun echoes this sentiment, stating that a dog's behaviour is shaped far more by its upbringing, environment, and handling than by breed alone. This perspective is vital in fostering a more nuanced understanding of canine behaviour and encouraging responsible pet ownership.

In conclusion, the recent surge in inquiries for canine behaviour therapy in Bengaluru reflects a growing awareness of the complexities of pet ownership in urban settings. As more pet owners recognize the importance of understanding their dogs' behaviours and needs, the role of canine behaviour experts becomes increasingly significant. The implications of this trend extend beyond individual pet-owner relationships, potentially contributing to a more harmonious coexistence between pets and the communities in which they live. As the dialogue around responsible pet ownership continues to evolve, it is clear that education and proactive measures are key to fostering well-adjusted pets and satisfied owners.