Solving Behavioral Problems in Dogs

Frequently, problems occur in the owner-dog relationship when the dog is not properly integrated into the family unit in terms of clear-cut dominance vs. subordinance roles. A primary characteristic of the canine pack is that one individual emerges as the leader. The same situation should exist in the relationship between dog and owner, with the owner assuming the leadership role. The best way to achieve and maintain this role is to actively work with the dog 10 - 15 minutes a day on simple obedience exercises. By nature, the dog will be willing to assume the subordinate role. Once established, obedience training will generalize to more acceptable behavior in other situations, because the dog is better integrated into it's environment.

Re-establishing your position as master may not be an easy task. If your dog has become accustomed to being "Top Dog", it will be reluctant to give up that role. Be prepared to be firm and persistent in dealing with your dog.

Setting A Schedule

Another area to be examined when disruptive behavior occurs relates to attention and exercise. Too much or too little attention can contribute to behavior problems when the dog is left alone. As a guilt reaction, an owner who leaves the dog alone may lavish affection on the dog at other times, allowing the dog to dictate the terms of the relationship. Conversely, because of time pressures and annoyance at misbehavior, the owner may only give the dog a minimum amount of attention.

It is best to establish a set schedule, which can be maintained both during the week and on weekends, for providing attention and exercise. Obedience sessions meet part of this requirement. Fifteen-minute exercise periods, before leaving and immediately upon returning home, are recommended. This gives the dog an opportunity to expend some energy before being left alone, and something for it to look forward to in the evening. Specific play periods may also be scheduled, or combined with the exercise routine.

Such schedules reduce the dog's tension level because it comes to expect these activities to occur on a regular basis. It is also advisable to adhere to a fairly rigid feeding schedule. In general, the more predictable the dog's life is, the more secure it is going to be.

"On The Level"

In some cases, disruptive behaviors are perpetuated because the owner expects the dog to function at the human level, rather than trying to function more at a dog's level. Part of the neurotic syndrome might include the following: Your dog defecates on the living room carpet while you are at work. Upset, you may yell at the dog, hit it with a rolled up newspaper, etc. The dog is aware that you are angry, but doesn't have the faintest idea why. In the future, as the time approaches for you to return home, tension builds up in the dog, increasing the likelihood of defecation as a reaction to the tension. Soon you have established a self-perpetuating problem.

Remember, your dog responds to you at a non-verbal level. Action and tone of voice have meaning to the dog, words do not. "Bad dog" may convey your mood, but the words themselves are meaningless to the dog. Though it might be difficult, ignore the disruptive behavior, whenever possible, reinforce the acceptable behavior with praise, attention or an edible treat. Punishment or scolding after the fact serves to draw the dog's attention to you, not the aftermath of its behavior.

Supplementary to the above suggestions, some specific techniques may be used to reduce stress and tension in the dog while it is left alone. A nylon bone, saturated with your scent, may help the chewer. Some people believe that leaving a radio or TV on reduces the boredom associated with being alone. A second pet, especially another dog, can raise the level of stimulation. However, these techniques do not take the place of a true understanding of the dog, its behavior and its needs.

Above And Beyond

By now you may have concluded that successfully keeping a dog under conditions where it can be left alone requires responsibility and effort on the part of the owners. All too frequently, a person may acquire a dog to meet their needs, without considering the needs of the animal. Clearly, the dog's needs go beyond the basics of feeding and providing health care and a bit of exercise.

Taken from: The Erie County society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Inc., Tonawanda, New York.