Behavior Assesments

What are Normal behaviors for your dog that you may find annoying or out right dangerous?

Biting

Barking

Digging

ChewingRolling in other animals fecal matter

Scent Marking

Humping

Chasing

Heel nipping

Obsessively Sniffing

De-fuzzing Plush Toys

All of the above are normal and natural behaviors of a canine. The question is really what do all these behaviors mean or symbolize and how do we rectify them and re-direct our canine companions?

This is where private in home training comes in. All these behaviors can be replaced by other appropriate behaviors with some training and persistence.  As a human pack leader to our dogs we need to be aware and knowledgeable of what a normal self stimulating behavior may be for our dogs. Once we see that our dogs are not "stupid" and just fulfilling a natural need it is easier to re-direct them to a more desirable behavior.

If your dog is exhibiting any of the behaviors above or below and you need help with them, please give me a call for an appointment today. We can work through these issues together.

Here are some examples:

Maybe instead of chewing  up your carpet or a wall your dogs need an appropriate chew toy or exercise.  Dogs need exercise and to walk or run "DAILY" for at least 45mins. An appropriate chew toy would be a Nylabone. (Hint: Soak Nylabone in simmering chicken or beef stock for 3-5mins to help flavor the Nylabone. When cooled give to your dog to chew.)

Humping can be a dominating gesture or gesture to control a situation. Even female dogs will exhibit this behavior. If your dog humps you, another dog, or a family member, your dog is exhibiting a dominating gesture and it should be re-directed immediately.

Chasing can be an annoying behavior and detrimental to the life of your dog. Especially if your dog is chasing motor vehicles. This behavior needs to worked on with an experienced dog handler or trainer please contact a professional to seek help to re-direct your dogs chasing behavior.

If Digging is super fun for your dog it is best to give the dog an area where digging is appropriate. Never let a digger watch you dig unless it is an area you want them to dig in. A 4x4 sand box area will usually work for your dog. Also keep in mind that dogs can dig out of frustration and need for exercise. If your dog is stuck in the back yard all day with no walk out side; he may be bored and need to get out and travel with his pack. Daily walks outside the back yard usually curb undesired digging.
If it persists please contact a professional.

De-fuzzing of plush toys is a natural behavior for your dog. Of course it is undesirable and a bit messy at times, but it can also be dangerous if your dog ingests the material. This can lead to emergency surgery, a very large vet bill, and even death. Please supervise your dog with a plush toy.
De-fuzzing symbolizes "the Kill" and "disemboweling the Prey" So it is a natural behavior but can be dangerous.

I hope this is helps you understand a little more about your canine companion. If you need help with any of these behaviors please call for a consultation and appointment today.

Happy Training!

-Hera Minkove ABCDT