dog behavior problem

Keeping Your Dog Confined to Your Property

We recommend that you keep your dog indoors, unless you’re present to supervise his
time outside. Dogs are “pack animals” and need to socialize with you and the world
around them. By walking your dog regularly (at least twice a day), you can provide
him with the exercise and mental stimulation he needs.

If there are times when you must leave your dog outside, keep him in a securely fenced
yard to prevent him from straying. Within the safe confines of your yard, he should have
access to adequate shelter from rain, snow, severe winds and other inclement weather.
You may also consider providing him with a covered dog “run” or pen with a doghouse
inside. This is a good alternative if you’re unable to fence your yard, or if your dog is apt
to escape from your yard by jumping the fence.

We don’t recommend that you chain or tie your dog up to prevent him from wandering
off. A chained or tied up dog is likely to become frustrated, which could lead to destructive
and/or aggressive behavior. He could also become entangled in his chain,
rope or leash and, as a result, severely injure himself.

However, if you feel you must chain or tie up your dog, then use a “dog trolley.” You
can construct one by sliding a ring onto heavy wire or rope and fasten the ends between
two posts or trees. Then, connect your dog’s lead to the ring. Make sure the
lead is short enough to avoid tangling, yet long enough to allow your dog to lie down.
The trolley may either be overhead or on the ground. Provide at least 15 feet of clear
space for your dog to move around in and be sure to remove any objects or debris that
could cause him to become entangled or injured. Don’t secure the dog trolley near
stairways, fences, decks or porches, and make sure it’s a safe distance from all possible
“escape routes.” When using a dog trolley, don’t ever use a choke chain collar, but
use a leather or nylon harness instead. Don’t leave your dog chained outside for extended
periods of time.

Colorado law (as most states) requires you to make sure your dog has access to appropriate shelter,
clean water at all times, and food, if necessary.

It’s best to provide your dog with a tip-proof water bowl or place the bowl in an area
where it won’t get knocked over. You can dig a hole and place the bowl at ground
level, which will not only keep it from being knocked over, but will keep the water cool
as well. You’ll also want to provide your dog with safe toys that are appropriate for his
size (see our handout: “Dog Toys and How to Use Them”).

Dog Behavior Problem Training:
Dog behavior problem training encompasses every aspect of canine education, from the species specific responses that's inherent to canines, to learning theory and operant conditioning, to traditional training methods. When these training techniques are properly implemented, most people notice results immediately. A well mannered pet is now within your reach, all you need to do is optimally structure your pet's environment.

A dog behavior problem can often be directed and controlled by training. Dog behavior can be thought of as responses that are specific to their species. These responses are controlled and directed by manipulating the social and the environmental variables. We call this training. Training can increase responses that are desirable, just as those that are undesirable can be decreased.

Your dog behavior problem is often a direct result of the animal's inability to cope with the stress of everyday life. The purpose of training is to raise the pet's stress threshold so your pet can tolerate higher levels of stress.

A human and dog behavior problem should not be confused with each other. The response patterns and intellect of a canine is very different from that of humans, although we do share some common traits. One of these traits is the drive to form close social groups with strong bonds to significant others. This bonding can be thought of as a kind of love. Even though this type of bonding is a natural trait in both canines and humans, we must avoid endearing our pets with human emotions. Learning to differentiate and respect a dog’s different needs from our own human needs, is the first step in conquering a dog behavior problem.