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Some common problems and some of the causes :
- Housebreaking
Why paper train when you can housebreak your dog? Paper training means you are
teaching your dog to "go" inside the house, on paper. There are situations where
this may be the only option, but usually not. If you really want to housebreak your
dog, use our five-part method, and stick to it! It'll take a little extra effort on
your part for a week or two (for most dogs), but the result is worth it!
- Chewing
Puppies teeth and their gums get sore just like human babies. That's why you
never give a dog the full run of the house until he is two years old. Use
soothing problem solvers. Avoid giving your puppy an old shoe. It's a license
to chew any shoe. After all, he can't tell the difference between that worn out
sneaker and an expensive pair of designer slippers. Chewing is not just a puppy
problems. Dogs can also chew because of anxiety, frustration and lack of training,
to name a few.
- Digging
Digging is natural for most dogs. It's evidence of their denning instinct and
marking territory. Other reasons are temperature - it's too hot or too cold,
lack of exercise, excess energy, boredom, and scents emanating from plants or
beneath the ground. Some breeds are more likely to dig than others - among them
are the Siberian Husky, Alaskan Malamute, Samoyed, Fox Terrier, Dachshund, Golden
Retriever, Cocker Spaniel and Doberman Pinscher.
- Jumping on People
When puppies are little, many dog owners encourage jumping by giving the dog
a lot of attention when the puppy greets the owner with enthusiasm and jumps
on the owner with delight. The dog gets bigger and so does the problem. And
what difference does size make to your dog? Dogs that jump on people can hurt
them and frighten them.
- Jumping on Furniture
If you let your dog sit on your lap or you allow him to sleep on your
bed, don't expect him to stay off the sofa or other furniture. It's
just common sense. If you can't keep your dog off the furniture, it's
probably your fault. This is almost always a people problem.
- Excessive Barking
Barking is not a problem. Excessive barking is, and unless you live
in an isolated area and don't mind listening to repetitive, endless
yapping, the problem has to be solved for the sake of you and your
neighbors. The problem may be caused by a variety of reasons like
improper confinement, tethering a dog inside or out, crating -
especially a hyperactive dog, loud noises like power mowers and
firecrackers, lack of exercise, hunger, genetics and the temperament
of the dog. Solutions depend on the cause.
- Aggressive Behavior
Aggressiveness can be genetic, but remember, there is no such thing as
a "bad breed." There are bad breeders. That's why it is always wise to
know the reputation of the breeder and go out of your way to obtain
your dog from a good one. If you are getting your dog from any other
source - a pet store, shelter or private owner, remember Uncle Matty's
personality test. Be aware that aggressive dogs may be dominant-aggressive -
the dog wants to boss and bully, or fear-aggressive - the dog is anxious
about someone or something. And of course, abusive human behavior can most
certainly, create an aggressive dog. When aggression rears its ugly head,
don't delay finding out the cause and an appropriate solution. It's wise to
work with an expert who understands aggressive behavior.
- Running Away
It's terrible living with a dog that moves faster than a speeding bullet
the minute the door opens. Before you can react, your dog is half way down
the street. The good news is, your dog isn't running away. He is simply
running! It's that wolf-spirit that lives in the soul of every dog, that
is encouraged by a variety of things. How do you control the behavior?
Proper training and common sense. Dogs that are properly trained will
either seek your permission to go out the door or they will respond to
the words "No" or "Stay."
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