The Top 3 Canine Behavior Problems and How to Solve Them - Part 2
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Home Family -> subcategory Pets.
The Top 3 Canine Behavior Problems and How to Solve Them - Part 2
Summary
Well-trained dogs are wonderful companions, offering love, loyalty, and protection. However, behavioral issues can arise, leading to frustration. This three-part article series addresses three major concerns: excessive barking, biting, and jumping on people, and provides solutions for each.
Canine Behavior Problems: Biting
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around one million people in the United States are bitten by dogs annually, with children aged 5 to 8 being the most common victims. Many of these incidents involve household pets.
Dogs may bite out of anger, fear, agitation, or over-excitement, or when they feel challenged or protective. When faced with a biting dog, it's crucial to understand the underlying cause of the aggression. If the dog was teased or felt threatened, the root issue might not lie with the dog but with the situation or behavior of others.
Some dogs snap at their owners when something is taken from them. Renowned dog trainer and author Barbara Woodhouse recommends addressing such behaviors assertively.
Effective Techniques to Stop Biting
If a dog tries to bite, quickly lift it by the choke chain and firmly say, "No bite!" Lower the dog only when it shows discomfort, usually within 10 seconds, then offer praise and affection. Repeating this process ensures the dog respects authority. Although this may seem harsh, it's more humane than the potential consequences of unchecked aggression.
Inexperienced handlers might struggle with this method, so seeking a professional dog trainer's assistance could be beneficial.
Preventing Aggressive Behavior
Some dogs become overly protective, attacking without command. This behavior can lead to aggression, such as biting. To prevent this, introduce your dog to crowds while muzzled if necessary. Allow people to touch the dog, reprimanding aggressive responses.
Another approach involves an experienced trainer intervening to correct the dog during aggressive episodes. The dog should be calmed and praised for submissive behavior.
Addressing Puppy Biting
Puppies often nip during play, and it's a common misconception that they'll outgrow this behavior without guidance. Early intervention is key, or this behavior might become a persistent problem.
Puppies need clear, consistent training. Methods differ from those used for adult dogs.
Managing Aggression in Puppies
When a puppy bites hard, firmly say, "No bite!" If this doesn't work, use the shakedown method: gently grip the loose skin under the puppy's ears and repeat the command. For puppies older than 12 weeks, lift them slightly off their front feet by the scruff, look them in the eyes, and say "No bite!" in a stern voice.
Consistency is vital. Allowing a puppy to bite sometimes but not others will only confuse them.
Puppies often bite children during play. If a puppy seems overstimulated or tired, it's time for a break. Let the puppy rest undisturbed.
Never resort to hitting a puppy's nose; it's both cruel and ineffective. After correction, always reward submissive behavior with love and praise.
At Savvy Dog Lover, we're dedicated to helping you and your pet. Stay tuned for Part 3, where we'll tackle how to prevent dogs from jumping on people. Visit us at [Savvy Dog Lover](www.savvy-dog-lovers.com).
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© 2006 Lori S. Anton, Editor at Savvy Dog Lover
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: The Top 3 Canine Behavior Problems and How to Solve Them - Part 2.
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