Dog Behavioural Problems

Dog behavioural problems can stem from many different sources. Some background knowledge is valuable in attempting to understand your dog's behaviour.

A few things to bear in mind would be the following:-

• Diet can affect behaviour. If your dog is suddenly behaving badly or even strangely, then consider if he has undergone a change in diet. If so revert back to the original diet and note behavioural changes. Be sure to allow enough time for the effects of the diet to work their way through. Sometimes a couple of weeks are required.

• An obvious recent change in diet is not necessary for diet related problems. A diet change occurring quite a while back can lead to problems which take time to manifest themselves. Such problems can often show rapid improvement once the correct diet is re-established.

• If your dog's behaviour changes and the new behaviour is out of character, then you should look for a diet related solution.

• A puppy should not be taken from the litter earlier than 7 weeks. It's important for the puppy to spend this time in the litter as an enormous amount of information on how to be a dog is absorbed at this time.

• Often behavioural problems are displayed in dogs that have been removed from the litter too early. Ensure when purchasing a dog that he was not taken from the litter too early. It's easier to avoid behavioural problems than to cure them.

• I believe that socialising a dog is critical in his upbringing. This is an ongoing process. However, the period from 12 to 18 weeks is an extremely important time. Use this critical period to introduce your dog to as many children, adults and other dogs and puppies as possible.

• Many owners lose this precious time as they are concerned that the dog's vaccinations are not yet complete. Try to get the vaccinations done as soon as possible, but still continue to socialise your dog provided you exercise care.

• You can start socialising your dog from as soon as you take him from the litter at seven weeks. Vaccinations may not be complete until 4 months. However by carrying your puppy in your arms, allowing him to meet children and adults, but not allowing him to sniff around in strange places can give him reasonable protection whilst still socialising him.

• An extremely important area of background knowledge in understanding behavioural problems is the area of dog pack bonding or how dogs establish rank within a pack. You can read more about dog pack bonding and establishing rank or hierarchy amongst dogs here.

I recommend a great ebook dealing with dog behavioural problems which also provides a very effective dog training method. For more information, Please Click Here!

Articles on dog behavioural problems.

Sound aversion therapy applied to behavioural problems or training in dogs

The factors affecting rank amongst dogs - Dog pack bonding

How to stop your dog from barking and annoying the neighbours

My dog urinates when greeted - stopping submissive urinating

How to stop your dog jumping up at visitors

What to do when your dog steals your socks and underwear and growls when you approach

Teaching your dog not to bite

Does your dog bite your ankles and heels? How to stop him

Need help, preventing your dog sticking his nose between people's legs?

Introducing your dog to your baby



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