For centuries, dogs have been our loyal, loving, and obedient companions. However, not all dogs fit this stereotype, and some may exhibit unruly behaviour that leaves their owners frustrated and unsure of how to address the issue. In this blog, we will delve into some factors that can contribute to a dog being out of control, including health, diet, breed, lifestyle, and genetics.
While certain breeds may have a predisposition towards certain behavioural problems, it is important to remember that every dog is an individual. Genetics is just one piece of the puzzle. Here are some considerations when addressing these issues in breeds with predisposed behaviours:
Early Socialisation and Training:
Regardless of breed, early socialisation and training are crucial to shaping a dog’s behaviour. By properly exposing them to various environments, people, and animals from a young age, we can mitigate potential behavioural issues.
Breed-Specific Exercise and Mental Stimulation:
Recognizing the specific needs of your dog’s breed is important. Providing ample exercise and mental stimulation tailored to their breed traits can help channel their energy and prevent behavioural problems associated with boredom or under-stimulation.
Professional Guidance:
Seeking professional help from trainers or behaviourists experienced with specific breeds can provide valuable insights and guidance in addressing breed-specific behavioural issues.
The Role of Health and Diet:
Underlying health issues can sometimes manifest as behavioural problems in dogs. Consulting a veterinarian to rule out any medical conditions that may be causing or exacerbating the dog’s behaviour is crucial. Additionally, a well-balanced, nutritious diet can positively impact a dog’s behaviour and overall temperament. (See last week’s blog for more details on diet)
The Importance of Lifestyle:
Dogs are social animals and require more than just physical exercise. A lack of balance between exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction can result in restlessness, hyperactivity, and destructive behaviour. Providing adequate exercise, engaging toys and games, and regular socialisation opportunities can help channel their energy in a positive direction.
Understanding Breed and Genetics:
Different dog breeds have distinct traits and temperaments. While genetics influence a dog’s behaviour, it is essential to remember that proper training, socialisation, and a nurturing environment can still shape a dog’s behaviour positively. Tailoring training and management techniques according to breed-specific tendencies is highly effective.
Consistency Positive Reinforcement:
Consistency in training methods and expectations is crucial for helping an out-of-control dog. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewarding desired behaviours and ignoring or redirecting unwanted ones, can be highly effective. Patience, understanding, and clear communication are key to encouraging positive changes in the dog’s behaviour.
Seeking Support:
Support from fellow dog owners, online communities, or local dog training clubs can provide guidance, empathy, and shared experiences. Sharing challenges and successes with others who have faced similar situations can be a valuable source of encouragement and knowledge.
Here are a couple of the cases we are currently working with:
Case 1: Barking and Car Chasing
Breed: Border Collie
Border Collies are highly intelligent and energetic dogs with a strong herding instinct. They may exhibit behaviours such as nipping at heels or chasing moving objects if not properly trained and mentally stimulated. Effective training and mental stimulation can help address these tendencies. Firstly, we needed to identify the triggers to determine what initiates the chasing and barking. It could be the sound, movement, understanding this is crucial to building a program that will help. Then we begin to desensitise and counter-condition. Gradually exposing her to the triggers in a controlled manner, starting from a distance. Using positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to reward her calm behaviour.
Case 2: Digging Holes in the Garden, Zero Recall
Breed: Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are known for their striking appearance and independent nature. With a strong prey drive, they may be prone to escaping or wandering off if not securely fenced. Additionally, they require a lot of exercise to channel their high energy levels. Again, we needed to establish why he was digging. We determined that this was driven by the need to escape and explore the world beyond the fence. This was the same for his lack of recall; he simply wanted to investigate everything, and a walk a couple of times a day was just not enough. He now has a busy roster of mentally stimulating games aimed at unleashing the prey drive and building a better relationship with his owner by playing fun games. A regular visit to an off-lead secure field for him to run and weekly training sessions to stimulate his busy mind.
Dealing with an out-of-control dog can be overwhelming, but with the right approach, it is possible to help them become well-behaved and happy companions. By addressing underlying health issues, providing a nutritious diet, understanding breed traits, ensuring an active lifestyle, and seeking professional training and behaviour modification, you can set your dog up for success. Remember, patience, consistency, and a positive reinforcement approach are vital in helping these dogs overcome their challenges and thrive in their human families. With dedication and support, both you and your unruly dog can find harmony and create a strong bond built on trust and understanding. Together, you can navigate the journey of addressing behavioural issues and enjoy the rewarding experience of having a well-behaved and contented dog by your side.
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