TIPS FOR PREVENTING PET BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS
Set rules immediately and stick to them.
Avoid situations that promote inappropriate behavior.
Observe the pet and provide what it needs to be cared for and attended to.
Supervise the new pet diligently through undivided individual attention and training. Restrict the pet's access to a limited area of the house until training is complete.
Encourage good behavior with praise and attention.
Correct bad behaviors by providing positive alternatives. (A toy for a slipper, a scratching post for the sofa.)
Never physically punish or force compliance to commands. This may lead to fear biting or aggression.
Don't play rough or encourage aggression or play biting.
Expose dogs and puppies to multiple people, animals, and environments, a well socialized dog is a confident, happy dog.
See your veterinarian or a behavior consultant if serious or unresolved behavior problems exist.
REASONS TO SEND YOUR PUP TO SCHOOL!!
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Puppy kindergarten at 8-10 weeks of age allows playing and socializing with other people and their puppies, learning some basic commands, and helps owners to bond with their puppy. Plus it is a lot of fun for owner and dog alike!
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Early intervention during puppy hood can prevent or minimize behavior problems in the future.
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Experiences in the first 1 to 2 years of life shape behavior for the rest of your dog's life. Exposure to new situations and people during the first year of life makes a better adjusted adult.
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Part of having a healthy relationship with your dog involves being in control. An obedient dog is a happy dog, but obedience is not an instinct - it must be taught.
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If you get a large dog or working breed, training classes are a must! Start classes before the puppy becomes large and rowdy.
DOG TRAINING AND BEHAVIOR LITERATURE WE SELL IN OUR OFFICE
Dog's Best Friend Puppy Primer
by Brenda Scidmore & Patricia McConnell
This is an excellent guide to common questions and problems puppy owners encounter. Topics covered include socialization, play-biting & housetraining, verbal praise &corrections, play, raising confident puppies and much more! This is an excellent book with a lot of useful advice on how to raise a well-adjusted, happy companion.
I'll Be Home Soon- How to Treat Separation Anxiety
Feisty Fido- Help for the Leash Aggressive Dog
The Cautious Canine- How to Help Dogs Conquer their Fears
If you need additional help in training please contact one of our local trainers below:
Susan Jakobs at Midwest Canine Academy
*Trainer/Behavior Consultant
*Offers: Classes and Private Consultations
*Locations: Sterling, Dixon, Rock Falls
*815-590-8008
*e-mail address: s.jakobs@insightbb.com
*website: www.midwestcanineacademy.com
J.L. Stenfeldt at C.M. Academy of Dog Training
*Master Trainer/Behavior Consultant
*Offers: Classes and Private Consultations
*Locations: NW edge of Davenport, Dixon, Rock Falls
*563-505-8556
*e-mail address: cm@revealed.net
*website: www.cmdogtraining.com
The following websites have additional information about training and behavioral problems.
Patricia McConnell - Behavioral Consultant
Midwest Canine Academy
CM Dog Training
Eukanuba - Dog Training & Behavior
Eukanuba - Cat Training & Behavior
ASPCA.org - Dog Care Topics
ASPCA.org - Cat Care Topics