Dog problems
Problems
Whether it’s jumping up, play biting or pulling on the lead, dog behaviour problems can quickly turn the family pet into the house guest from hell. But before you tell the kids Rover went to ‘live on a farm’, experts believe many behaviour problems can be solved with some good, old-fashioned dog obedience training.
Read our experts’ top tips on the importance of training your dog.
“Understanding dog behaviour is very important. Our dogs are much-loved members of our families, but they regularly get things wrong if they’re treated as humans. They are happier and calmer when we give them leadership and security in the way that they understand. When we understand them, we help them.”
Andy Waterhouse, dog trainer with Bark Busters
“Dog behaviour problems can start so innocently. Take the case of a puppy barking. Many think it looks and sounds cute so give the puppy encouragement. Sadly, in nine months time when the puppy is still barking at every little sound, it’s not so cute.”
Tina Edwards, dog trainer, Bark Busters
“Many people complain that their dogs won’t come back to them if they see another dog. To tackle this dog behavior problem, teach him to play with toys, and then make these games so exciting he would rather play with you than run up to other dogs. This isn’t easy, but gives a good result if you’re able to do it.”
MORE TH>N vet, PetHealthCare.co.uk
“Worried that your dog won’t get on with you with your new baby? If you have a very strong bond, begin to cool it down a little and give dollops of affection rather than a continuous supply. This doesn't mean they’ll get any less affection but just that it comes to them on your terms.”
MORE TH>N vet, PetHealthCare.co.uk
“It’s normal for puppies to mouth and nip us in an effort to try to get us to play, just as they would have done with their littermates. It is up to us to teach them that we prefer them to play with toys rather than our hands or other bits of us that we wish they wouldn't nip! To do this, keep a toy close by whenever you are with her and offer short, exciting games with it. If she tries to bite you, keep your hand still so it becomes very boring and wiggle the toy with the other hand.”
MORE TH>N vet, PetHealthCare.co.uk
“If your dog urinates in the house or on you, he is marking you with his scent. Usually, dogs that do this are trying to prove that they are top dog in the household – particularly if they mark their humans, too. it is important to establish the real cause of the problem. To get help with this, contact a member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (www.apbc.org.uk). They will help you to find out the cause and to develop a treatment programme to stop it.”
MORE TH>N vet, PetHealthCare.co.uk
Here at MORE TH>N we understand how important your pet is to you. Why not visit PetHealthCare.co.uk – our pet health and care site. Search the Pet Guide and Frequently Asked Questions section - we have answers to over 1,400 questions and if you can't find the answer you're looking for you can ask one of our experts or try the forum.
