How to Prevent Hyperactive Dog.

Training a hyperactive dog requires patience, consistency, and a lot of exercise. Here are some tips to help train a hyperactive dog:

1.            Exercise: Ensure that your dog is getting enough exercise. A hyperactive dog needs plenty of physical activity to release energy. Take your dog for daily walks or runs and provide plenty of opportunities for playtime.

2.          Mental stimulation: In addition to physical activity, provide mental stimulation for your dog. Play games that require them to use their brain, such as hide and seek or puzzle toys.

3.          Positive reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement training to reward good behavior. Reward your dog with treats, praise, or playtime when they demonstrate calm behavior.

4.          Consistency: Be consistent in your training methods. Use the same commands and techniques every time to avoid confusion.

5.          Training sessions: Keep training sessions short and frequent. It's better to train for a few minutes several times a day than for an extended period once a day.

6.          Crate training: Consider crate training to provide a safe and secure space for your dog to relax when they become overly excited.

7.          Seek professional help: If your dog's hyperactivity is extreme, consider seeking the help of a professional dog trainer or veterinarian to develop a training plan that is tailored to your dog's needs.

Remember, training a hyperactive dog takes time and patience, but with consistency and positive reinforcement, you can help your dog develop calm and appropriate behavior.

 

By Dog Behavior Expert,

Abhishek Verma.

+91 7596915595

monty2314@gmail.com

Understanding Dog Aggression.

Understanding Dog Aggression

Dogs are known for their loyalty, companionship, and love. They are considered as man’s best friend, but it is important to remember that dogs are animals with instincts that can lead to aggressive behavior. Aggression in dogs is a serious problem that can result in injury to people or other animals. Understanding the causes of dog aggression is key to preventing and treating this behavior.

Firstly, it is important to note that aggression is a natural behavior in dogs. It is a response to a perceived threat or danger. Dogs can be aggressive for a variety of reasons including fear, territoriality, dominance, or pain. Fear-based aggression occurs when a dog feels threatened or afraid, while territorial aggression occurs when a dog is defending its home or property. Dominance-based aggression occurs when a dog is trying to assert its dominance over other dogs or people. Pain-induced aggression occurs when a dog is in pain or discomfort.

Secondly, it is important to recognize the warning signs of dog aggression. These signs can include growling, baring teeth, stiff body language, and lunging. It is important to understand that dogs do not always give warning signs before becoming aggressive, which is why it is important to be vigilant and cautious around unfamiliar dogs.

Thirdly, prevention is key in addressing dog aggression. Socialization and training can help prevent aggression in dogs. Socialization involves exposing a dog to different people, animals, and environments to help them become comfortable and confident in various situations. Training can help a dog learn appropriate behavior and respond to commands. Positive reinforcement training is recommended as it reinforces good behavior with rewards, rather than punishment.

Lastly, it is important to seek professional help if a dog is displaying aggressive behavior. A professional dog trainer or veterinarian can help diagnose the underlying cause of aggression and develop a treatment plan. Treatment may include behavior modification techniques, medication, or a combination of both.

In conclusion, understanding dog aggression is crucial in preventing and treating this behavior. Dog owners must be vigilant in recognizing the warning signs of aggression, and take steps to prevent it through socialization and training. If a dog displays aggressive behavior, seeking professional help is recommended to develop a treatment plan. By understanding the causes and warning signs of dog aggression, we can promote the safety and well-being of both dogs and humans.

 

By Dog Behavior Expert,

Abhishek Verma.

+917596915595

monty2314@gmail.com

Dealing with Obsessive and Fixated Dog Behaviors.

Dealing with Obsessive and Fixated Dog Behaviors - "Be the Pack Leader"

For dogs, obsessions and fixations can become as seriously harmful as addictions are for humans. When we laugh at a dog that is fanatically mad over a toy, a bone, a shaft of light, a game of fetch, or the neighbor's cat, it's like laughing at someone who is a falling-down drunk.

Sure, this behavior looks comical at the moment, but the truth is, he's truly got no physical or psychological control over himself.

Someday, he may really hurt himself and those around him. That's exactly what obsessive behavior is to a dog - an addiction. An interesting fact is that the term addiction derives from the Latin word addicere, to sentence. When we allow our dogs' habits to progress to the point of obsession  and/or addiction, we are actually "sentencing" them to a very frustrated, unhappy existence.

Identifying Obsession

 

A normal dog plays well with others - you, your kids, and other dogs. Balanced dogs can like one toy or game more than another, but it's still a game; it's not a life or death situation. An obsessive dog will take such games very seriously. Her playing will have a whole different level of intensity to it.

When a dog is becoming obsessive, her face and her body language will visibly change. Her body will stiffen. A glaze will form over her eyes - her pupils become fixated and you can't distract her gaze. It appears almost as if she's in a trance. She's entered a zone in which there is no lightheartedness, no relaxation, and no joy in play. Think of a gambling addict at a slot machine, mechanically pulling the one-armed bandit over and over again, fixated on it but clearly not having fun. Obsession is not a happy place to be. It's a zone in which an animal is blind to everything around her that should make her happy.

Preventing Obsession

 

One step to preventing obsessive behavior is to monitor the intensity of your dog's play. I try to supervise the intensity of my own kids' play - because between them, one of them is going to be faster, or one is going to be physically stronger. If I can keep them at an intensity level that is mild, they can't hurt each other physically or emotionally. But they can still enjoy themselves. The point is, your dog must understand that there are limits to any game - whether it be playing with a favorite toy, or stalking the squirrels in the backyard. Those limits are determined by you, not by her.

Correcting Obsession

 

Make sure your dog is properly exercised and is not living with pent-up energy. Most of the time an obsession is something that the dog has discovered can work as an outlet for anxiety,  frustration, or suppressed energy.

Correct obsessive/possessive behavior immediately: this is where the importance of knowing your dog comes in. You must learn to recognize the physical cues and energy signs that your dog is getting into an obsessive state, and stop her at level one before she escalates to level ten. Your job should be at that very moment to correct the dog, to bring her to the highest level of submission, keeping the toy or object of obsession (if that's what it is) next to her until she moves away from it voluntarily. Most people will snatch a toy away and say, "No!" By doing this, they can escalate the obsession into a higher level - making the object prey, and making you a potential target. Your dog may not want to bite  a family member, but she's in a state now where she can't stop on her own. Remember, dogs don't rationalize.

By Dog Behavior Expert,

Abhishek Verma.

+919477304562

monty2314@gmail.com

The Barking.

Can You Tell What Your Dog is Feeling by their Bark?

Are you able to tell whether your dog is happy, sad, angry or afraid? Many dog owners claim they can tell exactly what kind of mood their dog is in based on the variances in the barks and noises they give off.

 “Scientists used to think that barking  is a random noise without any specific information or content, however, I have a different idea. Dogs might tell us something about anger, fear,  happiness, despair. So these are basic emotions which I think humans might be able to recognize in the barking sound.

The Alone Bark-

Dog asking for attention.
It’s anxious.
It’s sad; distressed.
Wants to be let off a chain or something like that.

The Excited Bark-

I think that one’s playful.
Excitement.
It seems as though they’re actually asking their owner for something.
It sounds as if it may want a ball or a toy or something.

The Angry Bark-

When Angry.
When a stranger encroaching on the dog’s territory.

Studies like this one are not only helping to strengthen the bond between owners and their dogs, but are also suggesting that throughout the process of domestication, dogs have evolved their elaborate vocal repertoire, especially to communicate with us. Not surprisingly, they use many of the same noises we do to communicate their emotions: dog sighs when it is bored, whimpers when it is sad, and unleashes a deep and throaty bark when it is alarmed.

Does your dog have different barks for different moods? Are you able to distinguish when he is sad, wants to be let outside, and feels threatened by an approaching stranger?

By Dog Behavior Expert,

Abhishek Verma.

+919477304562

monty2314@gmail.com

Inappropriate Dog Chewing.

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5 Steps to Correct Inappropriate Dog Chewing

Inappropriate chewing is a fairly common problem in young dogs and stems from the fact that puppies use their mouths as a means of exploring the world around them. Chewing is a normal behavior for puppies but becomes undesirable behavior when it is directed towards inappropriate objects such as your shoes, furniture, or even your hands and feet. If in appropriate chewing is not corrected then it can lead to wide scale destruction of personal property, medical problems and erosion of the human-animal bond.

A dog’s deciduous teeth will erupt between three to eight weeks of age and around four to six months of age these teeth will be gradually replaced with permanent teeth. Teething is a painful process and puppies chew more during this period of time because their gums are very irritated during this time and the act of chewing relieves their discomfort. Inappropriate chewing is most likely to occur while the puppy  is teething but if not corrected can become a long standing problem even after all the adult teeth emerge and teething ends.

Here are the five steps you should take to correct inappropriate dog chewing before it becomes a problem:

1. Rule out medical problems. 

The first step is to make sure that your puppy does not have any serious medical problems. Nutritional deficiencies caused by poor diet and/or intestinal parasitism can lead to pica which may be misconstrued as inappropriate chewing. Gastrointestinal problems may cause nausea which can trigger chewing as a coping mechanism. Therefore it is important to make an appointment with your veterinarian to rule out an underlying medical condition that may be causing or contributing to the dog chewing.

2. Puppy proofing.

 Look around your environment for possible dangers to your inquisitive puppy. Place household cleaners and chemicals out of reach along with potentially toxic plants. Electrical cords should be covered or mad inaccessible to prevent chewing on them resulting in electrocution. Remove objects of curiosity that might appeal to your puppy such as shoes and socks, children’s toys and the like. Block access to rooms that have not been puppy proofed and consider crate training your dog for the times when he cannot be supervised.

3. Encourage appropriate chewing. 

Provide appropriate chew toys for your dog to enjoy. Each dog will have their own personal preference as to what they prefer to chew and play with. Be careful with rawhide and beef bones as determined chewers can whittle them down to smaller pieces that can be swallowed. They can end up becoming lodged in the esophagus or small intestine so supervision is recommended when giving these treats and be sure to take away any small pieces that might be swallowed. Avoid chicken bones since they splinter easily creating sharp fragments that can easily puncture your dog’s gastrointestinal tract. I prefer nylabones, greenies and dental chewsticks since they encourage appropriate chewing while combating dental disease. Dog toys such as balls and kongs may appeal to your dog, just be sure to select a size that is appropriate for your dog. They should be able to pick it up and carry it but it should be of sufficient bulk that it cannot be swallowed. If you buy your dog a kong type toy check, make sure the hole in the toy is not so big that the dog can get his lower jaw stuck in it. I have seen several emergency cases where a dog comes in with a toy stuck in his mouth. Do not give toys that resemble inappropriate items; for example do not give your dog an old shoe to chew on because he will not know the difference between the old chew shoe and a brand new pair.

4. Discourage inappropriate chewing. 

By following step two you will have already minimized the amount of mischief your young dog can get into. If you do find your dog chewing on something inappropriate correct the dog by taking the object away and scolding him. Direct his attentions to an appropriate chew object and give praise when he chews on said object. Gradually, your dog will learn what objects are his and which are not. Sometimes it can be difficult to discourage chewing if the pattern is already established. Taste deterrents such as bitter apple can applied to the object, the noxious taste will hopefully deter the determined chewer and he will learn to leave the object alone.

5. Engage in playtime with your dog.

 A tired dog is a good dog! Spend time playing and exercising with your dog on a regular basis. This not only reinforces the human-animal bond but expends energy that your dog might be otherwise directed to inappropriate chewing and behaviors.

By Dog Behavior Expert.

Abhishek Verma.

+919477304562

monty2314@gmail.com

Dog Bites 1on1

Dog Bites 1on1: Why Bites Happen and How to Prevent Them.

Approximately every one or half of the dog owners are bitten by dogs in India every year and one fifth of them end up needing medical attention for their wounds. Children are the most common victims with half of bite wound victims being under the age of fifteen. Children are much more likely to be severely injured due to their small size and not being aware of how one should act around a dog. Most dog bites occur while interacting with familiar dogs thus there is a need to educate people and their children on how to avoid dog bites. It is important to understand that any dog has the capacity to bite and that by understanding the common reasons why dogs bite it is possible to prevent them.

5 Main Reasons Dogs Bite.

1. Dog Possessiveness.

 Protection of property is a common issue and “property” in this case can be anything from toy, food, territory or even a human being. Guard dogs and herding breeds tend to be the worst offenders but this behavior can arise in any dog. Start training early to minimize this kind of possessive behavior. Teaching the “Leave it” command works well in preventing toy aggression. Food aggression can be avoided by teaching your dog to wait while you put their food down. Teach them to sit or lie down and then remove their food and then put it back. Approach the food bowl and occasionally add treats to the food so they understand that someone approaching the bowl is not a bad thing. Teach children not to bother dogs that are eating or enjoying a treat such as a bone.

2. Dog Fear.

 Fear is usually directed towards strangers such as veterinarians and postal workers or in unfamiliar situations. Never approach an unfamiliar dog and teach your children to do the same. Fear bites can occur when a dog is startled at home therefore teach children never to sneak up on a dog or bother a sleeping dog. Early socialization is important so that the young dog is exposed to many different people, animals and situations minimizing the risk of a phobia developing. For example, make your first visit to the vet a simple social visit to get a feel for the clinic and meet the veterinary staff. Leave some treats and a note in the mailbox asking your postal worker to give a treat to your puppy.

3. Dog Pain. 

Pain can cause the friendliest dog to bite. If your dog has hip dysphasia, severe otitis or any chronic injury, instruct your children to stay away from the sore areas and be gentle handling the dog. If your dog becomes snippy for no reason consider pain as a possible cause and schedule an appointment with your regular veterinarian for a physical.

4. Maternal Instincts. 

The most well trained dog can become a biter when she has puppies. Be aware of and respect the maternal instinct around a bitch that has whelped recently. Teach children not to approach a young puppy around the mother and use caution yourself when handling puppies. Make sure the mother and puppies have a place where they can feel safe with minimal distraction.

5. Prey Drive.

 Another instinct to be aware of and is sometimes triggered by running or cycling past a dog resulting in a chase. Be aware of your environment if you are jogging or cycling and if you see a roaming dog try to avoid crossing paths. If a dog does give chase then the best things to do is stop moving and stand tall facing the dog. Be aware of the dog but do not make eye contact which can be seen as a challenge by the dog. They may come up and sniff you but will eventually find you uninteresting and move on to find something else. If a dog knocks you over then curl up in a ball protecting your face hands and neck and be still. Teach children to do the same and set up a mock “stray dog” drill.

Dog Bite Warning Signs.

Knowing the common triggers that cause dog bites will empower you to avoid these situations. Dog bites are always preceded by behavior that an astute observer can use as a warning and then take steps to reduce the dog’s stress or fear. Ears are typically pinned back, the fur along their back may stand up and you may be able to see the whites of their eyes. Yawning is not an attempt by the dog to appear casual but to show off their teeth and should be considered a warning sign as well. Non-social “stand-offish” behavior such as freezing in response to a touch or look followed by direct intense eye contact back from the dog is another clear sign that he may bite.

Dog Bite Prevention.

Dog bite prevention begins at home with your own dog by being a responsible dog owner. If you do not intend to breed your dog then having them spayed or neutered will help decrease the risk of bite related behaviors. exercise and play with your dog on a regular basis to reinforce the human-animal bond and to expend excess energy that might otherwise be directed towards nervous energy. However, avoid aggressive games such as wrestling and tug of war which can lead to dominance issues. Train your dog well, they should know the basic commands such as sit, stay, come and leave it. Don’t allow your dog to roam free where they can be a danger to other people. Do try to socialize your dog and expose him to many different people and situations but take care not to overwhelm him. Keep your vaccinations up to date for a worst case scenario. In most states a dog can be destroyed if they bite someone and they are not up to date on vaccines. Seek professional help from your veterinarian if your dog shows any signs of aggression. If you have children take the time to educate them on how to act around dogs, what to watch for and what to do if a dog attacks.

By Dog Behavior Expert,

Abhishek Verma.

+919477304562

monty2314@gmail.com

Master of the Walk.

Tips for Mastering the Dog Walk.

I often WALK about ten dogs at a time, sometimes even off-leash if I'm in a safe area. People are amazed by this, but it's simple: the dogs see me as their PACK LEADER. This is why dogs follow me wherever I go.

1. Position matters.

 Walking in front of your dog allows you to be seen as the pack leader. Conversely, if your dog controls you on the walk, he’s the pack leader. You should be the first one out the door and the first one in. Your dog should be beside or behind you during the walk.

2. Use a short dog leash.

This allows you to have more control. Attaching the leash to the very top of the neck can help you more easily communicate, guide, and correct your dog.  Always keep your dog's safety in mind when giving corrections.

3. Set aside time.

 Dogs, like humans, are diurnal, so taking walks in the morning is ideal. I recommend setting aside thirty minutes to a full hour. The specific needs of each dog differ. Consult your vet and keep an eye on your dog's behavior to see if his needs are being met.

4. Define exploration time.

After your dog has maintained the proper state of mind, reward him by allowing him to relieve himself and sniff around. Then you need to decide when reward time is over. It should always be less than the time spent focused on the walk.

5. Don't punch out.

 When you get home, don't stop leading. Have your dog wait patiently while you put away his leash or take off your shoes.

6. Share food and water.

By providing a meal after the walk, you have allowed your dog to "work" for food and water.

By Dog Behavior Expert.

Abhishek Verma.
+919477304562
monty2314@gmail.com