From specialists in aggressive behavior, to veterinary behavior experts, to shelter pros, to research scientists….The annual Aggression in Dogs Conference brings together the world’s best to share their knowledge and insight on aggression in dogs.

Trainers, behavior consultants, veterinarians, shelter and rescue workers, sport dog handlers, and pet care pros come together to learn, connect, and spark new ideas. With five engaging educational tracks, jaw-dropping live demos, and nonstop networking with your kind of people, CANIS is where science meets passion, innovation sparks ideas, and the future of dog welfare takes center stage.

Dr. Chris Pachel and Michael Shikashio take a deep dive into aggression and the underlying motivations for aggressive behavior in dogs. An amazing two-day workshop with two of the most sought-after experts in the dog behavior world.

Can we successfully work aggression cases virtually? Is it possible to gather all the information we need without ever meeting the dog? How do you teach humans and dog the necessary skills from the other side of the world? Have you ever wanted to be a ‘fly on the wall’ and watch an experienced consultant successfully work an aggression case? Join Karishma Warr Ma., CPDT-KA, CSAT as they deep dive into an aggression case study, talking through every step of the process. See how the online training experts at Calm Canine Academy incorporate technology to innovate their aggression practices. First contact, intake forms, between session support, and data/ record keeping --- get a behind the scenes look at how a virtual aggression case actually works and be inspired to use technology to innovate your own dog training practice.

In punishment-based dog training, the leash is used not just as a restraint, but as a way to inflict pain or startle, and many lessons about dog training include how to handle the leash to get the most force in a precise way. With the rise of positive reinforcement training, the leash was no longer needed to ‘teach’ the dog and lessons on leash handling fell by the wayside. Michael Shikashio and Grisha Stewart separately noticed that important skill gap in modern dog training and have been developing and teaching their own leash handling skills for aggression for over a decade and a half. While each of us uses more skills beyond the ones we developed ourselves, Mike is known for his defensive handling techniques and Grisha is known for her BAT leash skills - how to use a long line to create a sense of freedom while still maintaining safety and control. Grisha will be teaching Michael her new “leash belay” technique and Michael walk Grisha through “leash quick control. Follow along as you add new skills to your leash handling toolbox!

What do (and don't) we know about how genetics affects canine aggression and other parts of dog personality? In this webinar, Jessica Hekman will take a deep dive into her own area of research - how genetics affects personality in dogs, with an emphasis on aggression. How much of canine personality is due to genetics and how much to environment? How do researchers track down genes related to personality? Have any such genes yet been found? Can we expect a genetic test for dog aggression any time soon? In this webinar, Jessica will particularly address examples from human literature about the genetic influences of aggression. There will be something for everyone, so come listen and ask questions, whether you are just starting to wrap your head around genetics or whether you're a confirmed science geek!

Join APDT International for the premier event designed for dog training professionals and enthusiasts of all backgrounds! The APDT International Conference offers three days packed with cutting-edge educational sessions, practical workshops, and CEU opportunities to elevate your skills and knowledge. Learn from leading experts who will share the latest trends, techniques, and best practices in dog training and behavior.