Behaviour
Dog Behaviour
It’s perfectly normal for puppies to be nippy, yappy, destructive, naughty and very playful, but these behaviours in an adult dog can be difficult or even impossible to cope with.
One of the major reasons for giving up or abandoning a dog is behaviour problems and this is very sad, especially when it is the owners fault for not training the dog!
However training can be a tricky thing if you don’t understand dog behavior, how to train and what’s considered normal and what’s not.
What is Abnormal Dog Behaviour ?
If your dog has been trained, but he still displays certain “bad behaviors,” his behavior may be considered abnormal. Dog biting, puppy biting, eating poop (coprophagia), dog food aggression, excessive barking, chewing, digging, and jumping, separation anxiety, submissive urination, and extreme shyness are all considered abnormal.
Causes of Abnormal Dog Behavior
Dog behavior problems can develop for a number of reasons. It can be the result of:
- Lack of training
- Lack of reinforcement
- Overexcitement
- Fear
- Genetic susceptibility
Lack of Training
Most pet parents have good intentions, but some people do not know how to train and don’t take the pup to classes or learn. If a dog has inadequate or no training at all, bad habits and behaviors can develop rather quickly and in some cases, they can be difficult to break.
The best thing you can do to prevent your dog from developing abnormal behaviors is to hire a trainer or enroll him in an obedience class. The SPCA runs great classes and they can be contacted on 2232 5567.
Lack of Reinforcement
Puppies can mistake an owner’s lack of discipline as a sign that it’s ok to behave badly.
New and inexperienced owners may think that everything the puppy does is cute, but as the puppy grows into an adult dog, behaviors like jumping up on people, chewing, and nipping can become a nuisance and even dangerous for both the owner and the dog.
It is important to train your pet from the first day you get him to prevent behavior issues later on. Positive reinforcement is essential. This simply means, reward the dog when he has done well. Give a snack, or one of his normal dog biscuits. He will learn to associate “good behavior” with rewards. Even saying “good boy” and petting is good positive reinforcement.
Overexcitement : The sound of a doorbell, the ringing of a telephone, and other situations that stimulate the dog can contribute to abnormal dog behavior. People often encourage the dog by getting very excited when they get home, rather than being calm and praising the dog for being calm and restrained.
Fear: Many dogs become fearful because they are not exposed to enough situations during their important developmental times. Between 3 and 16 weeks is a developmental stage that puppies “soak up” all the noises & sights and they need exposed to everything at this time or they may become fearful as they grow. Have friends over, including children. Take him out (in your arms if he has not finished his vaccination course) and let him see crowds, buses, taxis and other dogs. Take him to friend’s houses if they have a nice friendly healthy dog to meet and play with.
Genetic Susceptibility: Many dog breeds were created for specific jobs. This can predispose these specific breeds to “abnormal” behaviors that can frustrate owners.
Choose your dog carefully to fit your needs.
Retrievers are designed to retrieve! They need exercise – every day.
Jack Russells are rat hunters and need toys to chase and lots of time to entertain them.
Huskies are dogs designed for living in the Artic and find Hong Kong very hot and need clipped. They are designed to pull sledges all day !
When you come in for your vaccinations we will talk to you about training and socialisation, but it is a large and complex subject that cannot be covered in 15 minutes.
We can recommend some books for you too.
If the behaviour becomes a significant problem we may refer you to Dr Cynthia Smillie , a veterinary surgeon who runs Hong Kong’s “Animal Behaviour Veterinary Practice“.