A Guide for Frustrated Owners
Why fighting genetics is a loosing battle. It is vital to consider genetics when training dogs with bad behaviour because genetics can significantly influence a dog’s behaviour and temperament. Dogs inherit certain traits and tendencies from their parents and ancestors, which can impact their behaviour patterns, instincts, and predisposition to certain behaviours.
Understanding a dog’s genetic background can provide valuable insights into their behaviour. Certain breeds have been selectively bred for specific purposes, such as herding, guarding, or hunting, and these instincts may manifest in their behaviour. For example, a herding breed may display a strong desire to chase and nip at moving objects, like children or bicycles, which can be misinterpreted as aggression or bad behaviour.
By considering a dog’s genetic predispositions, we can tailor our training methods and techniques accordingly. For example, a dog with a high prey drive may benefit from structured and consistent training that focuses on redirecting their natural instincts in a positive way.
Furthermore, understanding a dog’s genetics can help us set realistic expectations and avoid frustration. Some behaviours may be more challenging to modify due to genetic factors. It’s important to remember that while training can have a significant impact, it cannot completely override a dog’s genetic predispositions.
Overall, considering genetics when training dogs with bad behaviour allows us to develop a more comprehensive and effective training plan that takes into account the dog’s natural instincts and actually use these to our benefit, leading to better outcomes and a deeper understanding of the dog’s behaviour.
Here are the top 5 issues we get calls for.
1. Destructive Chewing:
– Provide plenty of appropriate chew toys and rotate them regularly to keep your dog engaged.
– Dog-proof your home by removing valuable or hazardous items from your dog’s reach.
– Supervise your dog and redirect their chewing behaviour to appropriate toys when they start chewing on something they shouldn’t.
2. Excessive Barking:
– Identify the triggers for your dog’s barking and work on desensitizing them to those triggers through gradual exposure and positive reinforcement.
– Provide mental and physical stimulation for your dog through regular exercise and interactive toys.
– Teach your dog a “quiet” command using positive reinforcement training techniques
3. Separation Anxiety:
– Gradually desensitize your dog to your departures by practicing short absences and gradually increasing the time.
– Create a safe and comfortable space for your dog when you’re away, such as a crate or a designated area.
– Use positive reinforcement training techniques to reward calm behaviour when you leave and return.
4. Lead Reactivity:
– Identify the stimulus, is it the lead? cars? movement? people? dogs? etc
– Gradually desensitize your dog to the presence of the stimuli by using counter-conditioning techniques.
– Use a front-clip harness or head collar to give you more control and prevent pulling.
– Seek professional help from a qualified dog trainer or behaviourist to address lead reactivity as this can escalate to being dangerous quickly.
5. Jumping Up on People:
– Teach your dog an alternative behaviour, such as sitting or offering a paw, that is incompatible with jumping.
– Ignore the jumping behaviour and only reward your dog when they exhibit the desired alternative behaviour.
– Consistently reinforce the desired behaviour and provide plenty of positive reinforcement for calm greetings.
Always remember that consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key when addressing behavioural issues in dogs. It’s important to tailor your approach to your specific dogs needs and seek professional help if you are unsure.
It is easier to pay for one session to ensure your on the right path then leaving it until the behaviour has escalated.
Remember we are here to help.
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