Thursday, March 19, 2009

Dog Behavior Modification - Three Beneficial Tricks for Separation Anxiety

By M.B.Bryce

What is dog behavior modification? Dog behavior modification is the manner to shifting behavioral issues. Obedience training alone cannot achieve behavior modification. Fact is, teaching obedience commands to fix a behavioral issue often does get in the way of helping the dog deal with his or her problem.

Here are three dog behavior modification techniques to help in separation anxiety.

1. The most effective remedy for separation anxiety incorporates dog behavior modification. Most canines behave well to confinement in a small space because it makes them feel secure. If your canine enjoys crate or room confinement, as shown by sleeping or snacking while confined, owners must utilize this trick both when the owner is at home, as well as, when they are absent. Remember, the crate or "safe room" is a location where your pet feels safe and at peace; never treat the crate or "safe room" for punishment.

2. One of the beneficial tips for dog behavior modification is exercise or activity. The more activity you and your dog get, the more tension is relieved, therefore, the less your pet will gnaw your loafers when you are away. There is a true correlation with tension reduction in humans and exercise. The same goes with pets. Take your "furry friend" for a long, and I mean a LONG walk. It will be a great stress reliever for you and your dog. Imagine all the bonding you will have and the amazing health rewards!!!

3. Dog behavior modification begins with you, the pet owner. Looking for the signs of distress are not hard if you pay attention. Dogs that get agitated after owners leave are most often anxious before they go. Owners need to learn to identify the signs of anxiety: pacing, whining, barking, shaking; all these signal: anxiety. Owners can not reward these behaviors by stating, "You are OK!" Before the dog becomes anxious, owners must calm the behavior by talking to the dog, massaging it or grooming it. If your dog still becomes anxious when you leave, you should ignore the behavior and not make a big deal over the dog. Making a big "to do" or pitying inadvertently rewards the anxious behavior.

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