It was Sit and Down day for Rigby's basic obedience training. Unlike most dogs, Rigby's default position is a down and will do so when asked to Sit, so we worked on proofing and reinforcing both the Sit and Down so Rigby learns the difference.
We took Tucker on a neighborhood walk and he did really well until we came upon a dog that is known for being very protective of his property. Tucker's anxiety level went through the roof and wouldn't respond to cues or food. I showed the clients how to handle those situations with desensitization and counterconditioning.
Clara's owner was concerned that she was becoming aggressive towards other dogs while on walks. What looked like aggression was actually over-excitement and some frustration that she couldn't meet the other dogs. With her owner's mind at rest we worked on proper greetings and some things to reduce Clara's excitement.
TIP #1: SUDDEN BEHAVIOR CHANGES REQUIRE A VET CHECKUP Has perfectly potty trained Fido suddenly begun to pee in the house? Does normally cuddly Princess now growl when you pet her? Maybe Spot has begun to steal and eat socks or underwear? Underlying medical issues can cause behavioral changes in your pet and should be addressed immediately. TIP #2: BACK TO SCHOOL TIME = BEHAVIOR CHANGES Separation anxiety and other undesirable behaviors are often triggered by either a high contrast situation - months of the owner (or kids) home all day followed by sudden eight hour absences (back to school) - or some sort of life change - rehoming, a stay at a boarding kennel, a death of a family member, or major change in routine. - Jean Donaldson |
AuthorJeff Dentler, CPDT-KA, IAABC-ADT, FFCP, CTDI Archives
May 2024
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