ọdịnaya
- … steals food from the table
- … chases a domestic cat
- … pulls along while walking
- … picks up from the ground
- … does not like to be alone for a long time
- … gets up with its paws on passers-by and “kisses” neighbors
- … is about to attack another dog
- … pissing at home
- … chews on things and rips off the wallpaper while the owners are not at home
Dogs are amazing creatures: only they of all animals were able to adapt so much to life with people that they are considered our friends. But sometimes life with them is clouded by problems, from unexpected puddles on the floor to street fights with their fellows.
We’ve collected simple life hacks from dog behavior and mental health experts, authors of Smooth, Praise, Love. A boring guide to raising a dog ”by Nastya Bobkova and Nadia Pigareva. Experts explain to owners the behavior of their dogs and teach them to gently adjust the dog’s habits. A few tips were given especially for the readers of Wday.ru.
So what to do if your dog …
… steals food from the table
Do not leave food unattended on the table. Even if the dog knows that it is impossible to steal goodies in front of you, without you it will still do it, because there is no one nearby who would forbid it to do it.
… chases a domestic cat
Use a leash at home. Prevent your dog from chasing the cat with it. And praise as soon as she has given up trying to charge. The cat in the house is a sacred animal and you have to explain this to the dog. Any manifestation of dog loyalty to the cat should be encouraged with praise and tastyness.
… pulls along while walking
Never follow a pulling dog. If she manages to reach her goal on a taut leash, it will be a reward for her, and the behavior will become entrenched. In case the dog is pulling, the most correct thing is to stop and wait for him to loosen the leash and look at you. In this case, praise and reward it with deliciousness.
… picks up from the ground
The easiest way is to wear a muzzle for walking. In the meantime, at home, train your dog to refuse food. Affectionately, without screaming and taboos, persuade you not to take the treat first from your hand, and then from the floor. Gradually take the practice outside and take a treat with you to reward your dog for success. Well, or quickly exchange selected food for them. Just throw it away when the dog does not see: prey after all.
… does not like to be alone for a long time
Prepare dog ice creams. Stuff a kong toy or silicone mold with cottage cheese, ground chicken breast, or canned food. Place it in the freezer and, if necessary, serve directly in the mold – that’s the point to get the contents out by licking them. This will calm and tire the dog. And, perhaps, the dog will fall asleep, waiting for you from work.
… gets up with its paws on passers-by and “kisses” neighbors
Do not forbid or curb the dog, otherwise manifestations of love for strangers may intensify: the dog is overexcited from punishment! Show your dog what behavior is more desirable when meeting with neighbors, and praise it for him. Sooner or later, the dog will understand that it is more profitable to stand on four legs and not kiss anyone without permission.
… is about to attack another dog
Loosen the leash and increase the distance between your dog and potential prey. Do not yell, otherwise the dog will interpret this as support from you. Calmly say something like “let’s go.” Most dogs are afraid to get into a fight without the support of the owner and also leave.
… pissing at home
A common cause of untidiness is health problems. See a doctor and make sure the animal is okay. And never scold for puddles and heaps in the wrong places. The dog is not to blame for them, they arise due to illness or stress. You need to fight the cause, not the symptoms. And if the dog pees at home, this is exactly the symptom.
… chews on things and rips off the wallpaper while the owners are not at home
The dog may have separation anxiety. It is difficult for her to stay at home without you. Never punish a dog for destroying an apartment. She has no abstract thinking, and she will not be able to compare her crime and your punishment. And the anxiety will only get worse. In the event of separation anxiety, a tasty treat or long-lasting delicacies hidden at home helps, as well as an equally calm ritual of the arrival and departure of the owner.