When we think of dog training, things that come to mind are “tricks” we teach our pets. Such as, sitting on command, rolling over, or shaking hands. However, the training of our dogs doesn’t end with the basics and no dog is exempt from the need for at least some behavioral training. Behavioral training is basically behavior modification, and involves weeding out some of your dog’s less desirable traits. Traits that are often considered undesirable are: aggression, barking, destructive chewing, guarding food, howling, mounting, biting, anxiety, and whining.
Aggression – Aggression in dogs can be attributed to a broad range of behaviors, and is the most common complaint in dog owners. No one wants to have a dog who bites, growls, or snarls at owners or others. Once the cause of the aggression is determined, steps can be taken to eradicate. Whether a dog is aggressive because or pain, or only in certain situations, it is important to take immediate action as an owner is ultimately responsible for their pet’s behavior.
Barking – While there are several reasons a dog might bark, such as playing or to sound an alert; a dog who constantly barks can be irritating to owners or neighbors.
Destructive Chewing – Chewing also has several positive purposes in your dog’s life, such as relieving tooth pain, maintaining jaw strength, and cleaning teeth. Some dogs, however, have difficulty understanding what is and isn’t appropriate to chew. Such as, yes to the rawhide, no to the antique furniture.
Food Guarding – Puppies learn food guarding from birth, as they struggle to protect their food resources. Dogs who continue to guard their food, however, can be a bite risk.
Howling – Like barking, there are many reasons that provoke your dog to howl. The problems begin when the howling becomes excessive.
Mounting and Masturbation – Although normal behaviors, dogs who excessively mount can be embarrassing for pet owners.
Mouthing and play biting – Adult Dogs – Dogs may mouth at hands because they are playing, or trying to get your attention. Not usually meant to be aggressive, it can still hurt and dogs can to be trained to be gentle. Mouthing, nipping, and play biting – Puppies – Puppies use their mouth to learn about the world. They may nip at hands and feet to engage in play. Puppy teeth can really hurt, and it’s not any more cute as they get older.
Separation anxiety – Some dogs become extremely destructive upon their family leaving the home. This a behavior that needs modified before your dog destroys the house or hurts himself.
Whining– Another means of dog communication, dogs whine to convey messages to their owners or other dogs. Once the cause for the whining is determined, steps can be taken to keep it under control.
Does your dog display any of these behaviors? If so, book a training session with our in-house trainer here at Los Angeles Dog Daycare. Through private sessions, our trainers will gently guide and correct your puppy, or adult dog to more positive behaviors. Trainers will also help you learn the skills you need to continue to encourage positive behaviors from your dog at home.