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If your dog has threatened or displayed any signs of aggression, the problem is likely to continue until appropriate steps can be taken to identify the cause and modify the pet's behavior. A necessary first step is prevention and avoidance of further incidents. Not only is this essential to ensure safety, but each aggressive display may actually serve to increase the chances that the aggressive behavior will continue.
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When household dogs fight, it can be physically dangerous and emotionally disturbing. An accurate behavioral assessment is critical to learn the motivation for aggressive behavior. Both dogs should be screened for medical and behavioral illnesses that may be causing or contributing to aggressive behavior.
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Even though dogs are a social species, some dogs exhibit aggression toward dogs outside their immediate social circle. There are many possible reasons for the behavior, and an accurate assessment is essential. A medical exam is important to check for underlying pain or illness. Treatment can be effective once the causes for the behavior have been determined.
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Treatment for aggression toward unfamiliar dogs is available, and the outcome can be positive. An accurate medical and behavioral assessment is needed as treatment plans are designed based on the context and underlying motivation for the behavior. To start, management is used to prevent aggressive encounters. Behavior modification is always needed and may include desensitization, counterconditioning, and response substitution. Medication is sometimes used to lower anxiety and frustration.
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Dogs that rush to the door, barking, can frighten visitors. An excited dog could rush out the door and be injured. Barking and rushing toward the door can be managed by teaching dogs an appropriate alternative behavior. Some dogs can become very aroused at the door and can exhibit aggressive behavior. Professional guidance may be needed.
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Sometimes it is necessary to use a special type of collar to prevent your dog from licking a healing would or incision. Be sure that your dog is comfortable and that the protective gear fits properly. If your dog is not adjusting easily to the cone, talk with your veterinarian. Medication can be prescribed to reduce anxiety so that your dog can be safe and calm.
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Many dogs routinely greet people by jumping up on them. Jumping up can cause a person to be frightened or even injured. All dogs can be trained to greet people in a calm manner. Training should focus on rewarding desired behavior while being careful not to inadvertently reward the undesirable jumping behavior.
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There are numerous reasons that a dog might soil the house with urine and/or stools. Determining the specific reason is essential for developing a treatment program. Dogs that soil the home continuously or intermittently from the time they were first obtained may not have been properly house-trained.
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Urine marking is normal in both male and female dogs and can even occur in dogs who are spayed or neutered. The underlying cause for urine marking should be determined so that an appropriate treatment plan can be implemented. Management, prevention, and supervision are important for a good outcome.
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Some dogs exhibit signs of distress when they are left alone. Separation related behaviors include vocalizing, panting, pacing, and house soiling. Treatment includes behavior modification and, in some cases, medication.