Behavioral problems in dogs – company stuff

Author: Dr. Alin Baron – Pet Stuff Veterinary Hospital

When the owner of a dog notes changes in their dog’s behavior, it is important to consult a specialist, as they can face a significant part of the issues presented by the dog.

During a consultation, the specialist plays the role of finding an optimal solution for both the dog and the owner to correct destructive, dangerous or disturbing behavior. At the same time, you will be informed about the needs of the dog and how to meet these needs to reach a high level of well -being for both the dog and the owner.

It is essential to remember that some behavioral problems can be dangerous both for the animal (chewing wooden or textile materials) and for the owners and their neighbors (aggression).

What is a behavioral problem?

«The term behavioral problem refers to any model (repetition) of the behavior of a pet that can cause damage to the individual or others, or proves to be dangerous or disturbing for the owner. Some may be normal actions manifested by a certain species or breed, others can be abnormal behaviors and, in some cases, can be abnormal behaviors with internal origins, secondary to a medical condition»
Rosana álvarez bueno- low stress management in the veterinary clinic

What are the most common behavioral problems in dogs?

Aggression – represents dangerous behavior that can lead to damage to the dog, owner or people and animals around. Some common examples include aggression towards the owner or other family members, towards other dogs, possessive aggression (resources protection, toys, food, etc.), territorial aggression and aggression induced by pain.

Separation anxiety – This behavior occurs when the dog cannot calm down and find a state of comfort when the owners are not around. According to the Bsava manual of canine and feline behavioral medicine, 20-40% of cases of behavioral problems that involve the attention of veterinarians is diagnosed with separation anxiety. This problem can often have a primary origin, such as hyper-attack or dysfunctional attack.

Separation anxiety poses problems because it is accompanied by disturbing behaviors such as chewing furniture, obsessive barking and urinating or defecating at home.

It is important to note that this behavioral disorder can be prevented by intervening in the first months of life. With the help of a veterinarian specialized in the behavior and a dog trainer, the dog can learn to spend relaxed time, avoiding complications of this condition.

The prevention procedure usually provides for the creation of a safe and comfortable place in which the dog can functionally eliminate stress alone.

Abnormal repetitive behaviors – It can be described as repetitive actions in which it can be suspected that the animal has no control over the beginning and/or on the end of the action. In the case of this behavior, it is necessary to consider that there may be several causal factors other than the behavioral ones (such as neuropathies), strengthening the need for evaluation by a veterinarian to identify and treat the problem. In these conditions, we can identify problems such as obsessive barking, turn around the tail and excessive grooming (which can lead to dermatitis).

Summarizing the above information, we formulated the following question.

When is it necessary to go to a veterinarian specialized in behavior?

1. When we observe inexplicable changes in behavior;
2. If there is a difficult behavior to ignore and affects the daily well -being of the dog or owner;
3. When the owner-dog report is tested by various daily factors;
4. If you have a dog of a few months, the vet can help you and guide you in time, preventing many unwanted behaviors (separation syndrome, screaming at home, etc.) and you can also be directed to a suitable dog trainer;
5. When leading to a new animal house, the veterinarian can provide the information and procedures necessary for their socialization;
6. When you observe signs of stress, in this case, the vet can help you identify and remove stress or get used to the dog until it disturbs them anymore;
7. When you want to familiarize the dog with the veterinary clinic or hospital.

Bibliographic sources

• Basava manual of behavioral medicine canine and feline
• Low stress management in the veterinary clinic, Rosana Alvarez Bueno, Ten’s German Quintana
• Msdvetmanual com problems