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10 TIPS FOR DEALING WITH
PROBLEM BEHAVIOR
by Suzanne Clothier
At one time or another, every owner has to deal with problem behavior. Understanding
why your dog does what he does, and how to handle the situation correctly can help resolve
problems quickly.
Here are some basic guidelines that apply to nearly all problem situations:
Control the dog and you control the situation. By putting on a
training collar and lead, you can control the dog. For many dogs, their training equipment
means business, not playtime, and this can help in a problem situation. A dog who is on
lead cannot run away or chase people or other animals, and his owner has a chance to help
him understand what he should do by guiding him with the leash and collar.
Be positive. Instead of saying "NO", try giving your dog
something positive that he can do for you, such as "Sit", or "Heel".
This positive approach means you can praise generously for his good actions, instead of
simply yelling at him. For example, a dog who jumps up can be told to sit, and helped if
necessary, then praised for sitting.
Allow a dog to be a dog. Often, what owners consider problem behavior
is simply normal dog behavior that they find unpleasant or annoying. For example, digging
is a natural canine activity but distressing to a garden proud owner. Instead of scolding
for what comes naturally, it might be kinder to set up an area in which you have buried
small treats to make it more attractive than the rest of the yard, and praising your dog
for digging in "his" garden.
Whenever natural behaviors conflict with what you might like, be creative and see if
you can find an outlet for those interests and activities that is suitable for you both.
Be consistent. It is unfair to the dog to change your rules depending
on what you're wearing, who's visiting or the kind of day you've had. If your dog is
allowed on the furniture, he will be confused when you yell at him because Aunt Bess is
visiting and she doesn't think dogs should sit in chairs! If he's allowed to jump up when
you're wearing jeans and a sweatshirt, don't be surprised if he can't tell the difference
between that and your best evening gown. Whatever your rules are, keep them consistent.
Have your dog earn what he wants. While everyone needs a few freebies
now and then, your dog will not think you are a wonderful owner if you play with him, walk
him, feed him and pet him whenever he demands it. In fact, this often creates problems
since from the dog's point of view an owner who can be "trained" this well is
not one who deserves much respect. Teach your dog to say "please" by sitting,
laying down or following some other command before he gets what he wants.
Be clear. Owners often confuse dogs by changing the words or commands,
repeating them over and over again without showing the dog what is meant, and worst of
all, assuming that the dog understands.
When in doubt, gently show your dog physically exactly what you mean, giving the
command at the same time so that he can associate the two. Use clear, matter of fact
commands when addressing your dog, and be sure that your praising tone is excited,
enthusiastic and upbeat.
Remember that while we use words to communicate, dogs are masters of reading body
language. If your body language tells the dog one thing, but your voice tells the dog
something else, chances are he will believe your body language. This is why people who
bend towards their dog and shake a finger at them while scolding "No, no, no"
often receive a playful bark - their body posture is much more like a dog inviting play
than a dog who is annoyed or angry.
Exercise, exercise, exercise! The most common cause of problem
behavior is boredom and a lack of sufficient exercise. While you work or go out, your dog
has little or nothing to do, and his need to exercise will not go away. A familiar yard or
house is boring, and few dogs exercise on their own without interaction with their owners.
Take the time to play with your dog, jog with him, walk in the woods, swim or take long
brisk walks each day. A tired dog is always a well behaved dog!
Provide mental stimulation. Dr. Roger Abrante's suggestions regarding
using 1/3 of your dog's diet for treats to be earned during training, 1/3 to be given as
usual in a food bowl, and 1/3 to be "hunted" (try a Buster Cube, an
ingenious toy which the dog must persistently work with to receive a few
kibble at a time. Even a border collie will be amused by this for hours! Buster Cubes are
available from your local pet store or from DogWise.com.) This "home alone" 1/3-1/3-1/3 program helps your
dog expend some energy and provides much needed stimulation.
Understand your dog's genetic heritage. Whether you own a Doberman or
a Beagle, a Samoyed or a Westie, it is important to understand what your dog was bred to
do. Owners often forget that the behavior that prompts a dog to run or stay close, hunt or
guard, chase and kill or herd, work with people or work independently are all the result
of generations of carefully selected traits. Research your breed's history, and talk to
people who understand your breed's characteristics. You may find that Rover's tendencies,
while annoying or amusing, are precisely what makes him what he is. You can then decide
how best to work with your dog's instincts and where you need to concentrate training
efforts.
Train your dog. Every dog should have basic manners, but dogs are not
born knowing how to behave. Take the time to train your dog on a consistent basis using
kind, positive methods. Find a class near you whose methods and philosophies you like. If
faced with a behavior problem you can't solve, ask people you trust for a recommendation
of an experienced trainer and get professional help fast. The sooner you begin working on
a problem the sooner you will have it solved.
To learn more, see the Flying Dog Press booklets Body Posture & Emotions, Finding A Balance, The Seven C's and
Understanding & Teaching Self Control.
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FROM BARN FIRE
to BARN OF JOY: St. Patrick's Day 2004, our barn burned to the ground,
taking with it our beloved
pig Charlotte, turkey Mabel, cats Dudley & Jessie and many chickens and turkeys
did not escape. ( Please
click here for details.) The incredible outpouring of support from
all directions has humbled and staggered us - we are truly blessed. The
new barn that stands now is the barn that love built, and includes a room for
seminars & training so that the love that made this possible can be passed along
for years to come. Thank you for
your support & patience during this difficult time. - Suzanne & John