1. Using aversive tools to correct behaviour
Aversive tools include:
Shock collars
Choke collars
Prong collars
Ultrasonic devices
Compressed air
Shaker cans
Anything designed to scare or harm your dog.
These tools are marketed as way to ‘quickly solve’ behaviour problems, so it’s completely understandable why owners buy them, however the physical and emotional damage that can be done with these tools is extensive.
They create anxious dogs who become cautious and wary of every step they take. On top of this, they often create other problems such as
Plus, you’re dog is almost always aware that you, as the owner, are causing the fright or pain. This is a quick and easy way to lose your bond.
What to try instead?
Focus on the good behaviour, not the bad, and reward for alternative behaviours that your dog shows!
2. Making them cope with anxiety
A common misconception about fears is “if they see it enough, they’ll realise it’s not scary.” Unfortunately, it doesn’t work this way. More often than not, the anxiety will get worse.
So what should you do instead?
You’ll want to first avoid all ‘scary’ triggers for your dog. Then, think about how you can overcome them and make them less scary. It is strongly advised that you get a behaviourist on board to help you with dog fears before it gets worse.
3. Not looking out for stress signals, or ignoring them if you do see them
Dogs commonly show subtle body language to communicate with us stress, anxiety, and many other emotions. For example, lip licking, yawning, or blinking more than normal.
When these behaviours are ignored, stress and anxiety tends to get worse, gradually leading to aggression. Think of humans for this. If you kept saying to someone ‘I’m uncomfortable’ and they didn’t listen, you may eventually push them away, and you may feel angry!
How to avoid this?
Learn your dog’s stress signals and when you see them, remove the stressful trigger, calmly but quickly. This will teach your dog that you can help them when they are stressed, so they do not have to resort to more aggressive behaviours such as growling.
4. Underestimating the benefits of a good quality diet!
The proper balance of nutrients is crucial when you are feeding your dog. New owners very often underestimate just how much the quality can make a difference!
Good quality foods keep your dog’s body condition good as well as keeping their muscles strong. It helps keep the coat and hair condition healthy, and can assist in healthier digestion and elimination. It can even help to prevent diseases as a good diet keeps the immune system strong!
What to look for?
First, make sure you are feeding according to your dog’s life stage, as well as feeding the correct amount. You’ll need to learn to look at the ingredients list. Choose foods where the first ingredients listed is meat (the higher % the better, usually, and avoid ‘chicken MEAL’, ‘turkey MEAL’. It should be just ‘chicken’ or ‘turkey’). Then, avoid foods that contain chemical preservatives and high amounts of fillers such as wheat, corn, or soy.
5. Not providing them with enough mental stimulation.
I see owners frequently who walk, run, and play ball with their dogs and give them plenty of exercise! However they are still hyperactive and raring to go! This is because, despite the dog being physically tired, the brain is still very active!
Dogs that are not both physically AND mentally exercised are more likely to be bored stressed and hyperactive.
So how to avoid this?
There are many ways to include mental stimulation into your dog’s life, including training, play, new walks, enrichment, and puzzles. Check out my blog post on enrichment for plenty of ideas!
For more training tips, make sure to follow me on Facebook: @muckypupsdogtraining
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