ANNOYING BEHAVIORS IN PETS, Part 2

Recently, it was mulching day for all the perimeter beds in our yard. The sounds, smells, and views were stunningly amazing after the long winter. The warming sun, red tail hawks soaring through the pine trees, and robins harmonizing were priceless sensations to experience.

 Unfortunately, the one thing dampening the moment was the incessant barking of several dogs in the neighborhood. I kept wondering, are they hurt, bored, hungry, or upset?  Below are some general guidelines for addressing a few pet behavioral peeves.

BARKING IS A NORMAL FORM OF COMMUNICATION FOR DOGS? WHEN IS IT ABNOXIOUS AND NEED TO BE ADDRESSED? 

Puppies start to bark at two to four weeks of age. Their bark means one of many things: alarm, distress, herding, defense, solicitation for attention, play, and greetings. Different tones of the bark are in response to the situation. Happy barks tend to be a higher pitch than the lower toned ones voice concern.

Social Barking: In response to other stimuli (ex. dogs, playtime,). The suggestion is to increase the walking/running of the dogs and remove them from the stimuli. These are often bored dogs.

Attention Seeking:  Do not reward such behavior and remove reinforcement for such behavior. 

Anxiety:  Triggered by owner separation or noise. Identify the cause and work with behaviorist/ veterinarian/ trainer to counter condition. This may include medication, increased exercise, a lower calorie diet, and new training methods.

Territorial Defense: Protecting the property (real or perceived). Once again, remove from the stimulus (block view out window) and similar measure as noted for anxiety.  Some clients have tried Citronella  and others find anti-bark collars helpful.

DIGGING CAN BE A PROBLEM FOR CHERISHED YARDS BY DOGS? HELP!!

Digging is a natural instinct to bury food, escape, hunt, explore, change body temperature, and play. To control digging, the cause needs to be determined and controlled. Try offering plenty of shade, water, exercise, and even a designated doggie sand box with buried dog treasures. Dogs do not always naturally exercise when in the back yard as many are bored. Added walking or interactive play is encouraged. Booby-trap unacceptable dig areas utilizing water-activated sprinklers and limit exposure.

WHAT IS THE BEST LEASH FOR A PET?

A good-quality fabric (preferably cotton) or leather lead should be long enough that the owner and the dog can go for a walk without constant lead tightening. Contrary to what many believe, a short lead actually encourages pulling, as it does not give the dog the opportunity to learn to walk on a loose lead. For running a long distance, a rope/long lead up to 30 feet may be used for security.

Bungee-type leads and retractable leads are not recommended. An owner has less control in a difficult situation due to their length and elasticity. They actually encourage pulling as the lead is always taut. Retractable leashes can be dangerous flying missiles towards the dog when pulled out of an owner’s hand. A moment's inattention can result in burns to the owner's hand. Dogs running fast to the end of the lead and jerking suddenly back could result in neck damage.

WHAT IS ONE NEW SOURCE FOR PRODUCTS TO MODIFY  PET  BEHAVIOR?

www.eyeanimal.com 

Products include cameras, controlling barking/meowing (indoor or outdoor version), security, electronic feeders, pet water fountains, and new toys.

Dr. Betsy Sigmon

Creature Comforts Animal Hospital

Cary, NC