GRIFFITH University is holding free seminars with Redland City Council to address dog-related issues that cause problems in the community.
There will be two sessions at Redlands Memorial Hall with trainer Steve Austin on September 15 from 6pm to 8pm and trainer Ryan Tate on October 26 and 27.
The seminars are part of the Leave It program that stems from a Griffith University survey of more than 500 Redland dog owners found that 57 per cent of dogs dug holes, 32 per cent chew furniture, 10 per cent have caught wildlife and nine per cent killed wildlife.
Griffith University Leave It program manager Jessica Harris said the seminar would be run by two expert trainers on ways to teach dogs commands such as basic sit, stay, heel, barking, denning practices and wildlife aversion.
"Our aim is to help people experiencing problems with their dogs in the Redlands area,” she said.
“People who have behavioural and problem dogs can attend a workshop without their dog.
"A secondary aim is to teach dogs and residents about wildlife awareness and having a well-trained dog, so they don't interact and harm our wildlife. "
The seminars come after multiple reports of domestic dog attacks towards people and pets in the Redlands, including an incident in Thornlands that left an 11-year-old boy needing surgery two months ago.
In June, a Redland City Council spokesperson said compliance officers had increased patrols.
The spokesperson said dogs would be impounded if caught straying and infringement notices would be issued to owners if a dog was off-leash in public, except in off-leash areas.
“Council urges dog owners to help keep Redlands safe by ensuring their dog is appropriately contained while at home and on a leash while out, unless in a designated dog off-leash area,” they said.
“Council encourages dog owners to attend dog obedience classes, which are run throughout the city and are a great way to learn how to control a dog and have fun.”
Dog owners that register for dog training with Leave It accredited partners will be offered 6 months of free dog registration.
For more information and terms and conditions, go to the Leave It website here.