APPLYING PROBLEM PREVENTION
TEACHING A DOG HOUSE RULES HELPS TO AVOID UNWANTED BEHAVIOR
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Behaviors like chewing, digging or barking are normal for dogs, but they often quickly become a
nuisance to owners. Since dogs are not born knowing what is acceptable behavior or live among
their human companions, it is up to us to show them how to prevent problems from arising.
Problem prevention means thwarting unwanted behaviors before they start. From the very beginning
you must teach your dog the house rules and be consistent with them. Even very young dogs can
learn from their mother, littermates, surroundings, and human companions. If you don't clearly
communicate what is acceptable to your dog early on, he will make the decision on his own, and most
likely that decision won't match yours.
Preventing unwanted behaviors from getting started is much easier than breaking an already
established habit. These habits are reinforced through repetition and the attention your dog receives
from you, even if it is disapproving. Prevention is based on classical and operant conditioning. Your
dog will continue doing things that are in his best interest and have a pleasurable outcome, or are
reinforced. Positive reinforcement can be anything from a treat, favorite toy, or even attention or
reaction from you.
Conversely, your dog will stop doing things that are not reinforced or that result in something
unpleasant like a verbal "No!" when you catch him doing something you don't want him to do.
Whether positively reinforcing a good behavior or trying to put an end to a bad on, consistency and
patience are a must in order to avoid confusing your dog.
Dog-Proofing Your Home
A preliminary step in preventing problems is "dog-proofing." This involves removing or protecting
items in the areas of your home and yard that your dog will have access to. Generally, if you have
something of value that you don't want chewed, knocked over or dirtied, you should keep it out of your
dog's reach. Move plans, pick up remote controls, cover trash, protect wires and cords, and close
doors to rooms that you don't want your dog to explore.
Preventing unwanted behaviors from getting started is much easier than breaking an
already established habit.
If you are away from home or unable to supervise your dog, keep him in a crate, a fully dog-proofed
room, or in a safe confinement outside to reduce the opportunity of getting into something
inappropriate. These simple steps not only protect your home, but also protect your dog from being
hurt or ingesting something he shouldn't.
Many behavior problems can arise simply out of insufficient activity. Exercise serves an important
function in the life of any dog, and daily sessions will help dispel some of the energy into something
healthy instead of something destructive. Simply letting your dog out in the yard is not enough -
exercise sessions should involve you and your dog interacting together whether on a walk, jog or even
a game of catch.
Consider the activity level and physical capabilities of your dog to develop a daily exercise routine. A
walk around the block will suffice for some dogs, but it may be just a warm-up or a grueling march for
others. Several options are available; your only limit is your dog's comfort level and enjoyment of the
activity.
While some dogs will enthusiastically continue in physical activity as long as you allow them, close
attention should be paid for signs of overexertion or overheating. Make sure that the exercise is not
too strenuous and does not last longer than is enjoyable or safe for your dog. Particularly in warm
summer months, outdoor exercise should be limited or take place in cooler times of day to help
ensure against overheating, dehydration and heat stroke.
Mental Stimulation
Besides physical exercise, dogs also need mental stimulation. Obedience training aids in preventing
problems as it establishes an effective means of communication with your dog, keeps him mentally
stimulated, and strengthens the owner-dog relationship. A clicker and treat is an effective positive
method to teach your dog new exercises. Clicking the instant your dog performs the behavior you like
marks the moment, and a treat reinforces it. With repetition, this association will make the good
behavior more likely to occur. The clicker combined with oral commands, such as "Leave it" and
"Drop it," also can be used to help a dog out of trouble.
Teaching a boundary stay is helpful as this allows you to keep your dog close to you, even when you
are occupied with something else. A raised bed or one with distinct edges works best so your dog
can easily define the boundaries. When on his "place" he can play with a toy, take a nap or anything
else, as long as he remains on the bed.
Besides training, mental stimulation can be provided through interactive toys or chew toys. Toys that
are safe, durable, and can be filled with food or treats work best. Your dog not only has to figure out
how to get the food out, he will also burn energy by manipulating the toy. A good interactive toy can
substitute a food bowl so that even mealtime provides mental and physical stimulation. It will also
prevent your dog from consuming his meal too quickly. Once your dog is used to working for his food,
increase the challenge by separating his meals into several toys and placing them in dog-appropriate
hiding spots around the house or yard so he has to seek them out.
The interactive toy can also be reserved as a special toy that is only given to your dog when he is in
the crate or kennel to prevent boredom. Chew toys should be free of small pieces and large enough
so as not pose a choking hazard. Giving your dog appropriate chew toys will not only satisfy that
need, it will also help prevent him from chewing inappropriate items around your home.
Keep in mind that unwanted behaviors never have to become bad habits. Anticipating your dog's
overall needs and providing for them will save a lot of time fixing problems in the long run. Turning
your home into a safer environment for your dog and providing him with physical and mental
stimulation will help stop most unwanted behaviors from ever getting started.
Triple Crown Dog Academy near Austin, Texas, offers training programs for trainers and dogs. Visit
www.triplecrowndogs.com for information.
Used with permission from Today's Breeder, Nestle Purina PetCare Company.