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Paws in Print

Summer 2001

Behavioral Training

Dr. Ryan C. Case, D.V.M

Although dogs have been our loyal and faithful companions for years, they still exhibit behavior that humans view as unacceptable. In fact living with a pet that has a behavior problem can be very frustrating. So often the pet becomes less enjoyable, ignored, abandoned, or euthanized because of these problems. Redirecting and retraining can make our canine companions better and happier family members. The dog that performs unacceptable behavior in the owner’s mind is sometimes exhibiting normal canine behavior. Many of these problems are directly related to the lack of leadership on the part of the owner. It is important to remember dogs are social animals that like to interact with people and dogs. Dogs are pack animals that need to have a leader (Alpha Dog.) You as the responsible pet owner must be that leader.

Below are some tips on training your pet.

• A good solid down and stay is one of the best learning tools

• Keep petting brief and reward obeying commands with attention.

• Keep in mind that dogs are very sensitive to body language and visual cues.

• If you want to pet your dog, call it to you, don’t go to it.

• Don’t let your dog demand play, food, or petting.

• Keep dominant dogs on the floor, not up on the chairs couches, or bed.

• Teach your dog to stay at your side while you initiate pace and direction.

• Reward the behavior you want to see continued.

• Love is not related to social status, and most dogs live in harmony when the social hierarchy is clean, no matter where they stand in it.

This basic obedience program should make treating any other behavioral problems easier. A dog that looks to you for direction can be taught almost anything. It will be happy to work for what it wants, and it helps keep its mind occupied constructively. Integrate this training into your day by asking your pet to perform some action whenever it wants to go outside, be fed, play ball, etc. Letting you be in charge will soon become second nature to your pet/family member. If you have any questions about behavioral problems please contact your local veterinarian.

(Dr. Case is in practice at Animal Medical Center.)