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If you are looking for a well adjusted dog or puppy, behavior modification may be the answer for you.
What is behavior modification?
Behavior modification should not be confused with obedience training. Obedience training can be very useful when helping to manage the conditions of certain behavior but does not change the behavior at the root of the source. If your dog or puppy exhibits an undesirable trait such as separation anxiety, this behavior can be modified but it will take some hard work. It is best not to let the behavior escalate or the problem may become progressively worse.
Dogs, like humans, are genetically predisposed to certain behaviors. You will probably notice this more with puppies. Different breeds have a tendency to different behaviors. Another big impact, particularly on an older dog, is his current or prior upbringing. Was the dog loved? How was it treated and what kind of structure did it have?
First of all have your dog checked out by your veterinarian to make sure he is not suffering from any health conditions that may be affecting his behavior.
Consider educating yourself about your dog or puppy's particular breed. This may provide new understanding about why your dog behaves a certain way and even offer tips on behavior modification. Consider your dog's environment. Certain breeds are not necessarily good with children for instance.
Never physically punish your dog. This never accomplishes much and in a dog that is misbehaving due to anxiety or stress, this will actually exacerbate the problem. On the flip side, do not reward your dog for inappropriate behavior or reassure him by telling him "it's okay."
When you begin your behavior modification program, be patient and realize that it will probably take a few weeks to notice a marked improvement. Be positive and consistent. If at all possible enlist the help of everyone in your family to maintain consistency. If behavior modification alone is not successful you may want to consider drug therapy. Discuss the pros and cons with your veterinarian and decide what is best for you and your dog or puppy.
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