Using Science-Based Methods and Research to Change Voluntary Behaviors in Dogs

Is your dog presenting with undesirable behavior? Are you considering rehoming or even euthanizing your dog because of behavior problems?

When dogs present with undesirable behavior (barking, nipping, biting, growling, jumping), owners often misinterpret the dog’s motivation behind the behavior. Understanding the motivation behind the behavior with which your dog presents is the first step toward changing it.

Do you find yourself saying things like, “Rex is stubborn!” or “Molly knows what I want her to do, but she just does it when she wants!” or “My dog is angry and jealous that I have a new boyfriend, so he growls or snaps at him.” These are all examples of anthropomorphism, which is the attribution of human motivations, characteristics, or qualities to animals.

We are humans, and it is natural for us to give anthropomorphic reasons for our dog’s behavior; however, when dog owners give anthropomorphic explanations for their dog’s behavior, it can worsen the problem.

Anthropomorphism is just one common error dog owners make in attempting to explain their dog’s bad behavior. There are many widely held misconceptions regarding dog behavior in much of the literature you will find on television and the internet.

If you seek my help, you will find that all of the information and methods we discuss are based in the current science and research presented by experts in the field of dog behavior.

• Create a special bond with your dog.
• Help your dog behave better.
• Learn how to effectively implement dog training techniques to increase desired responses from your dog.
• Improve your dog’s aggressive or fearful responses to people or other dogs/animals.
• Learn how to read your dog’s body postures and other forms of dog communication.

**NOTE: Have you discussed your dog’s behavior problems with your veterinarian? Many medical problems can mask themselves as behavior problems, so be sure to visit your veterinarian to rule out medical causes for undesirable behavior BEFORE assuming it’s strictly behavioral. Making assumption can exacerbate the dog’s problems and make things worse!

Find out why your dog is biting, snapping, barking, threatening other dogs or people on the walk, and learn appropriate and effective ways to change their bad behavior.