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Here are a couple of common behavioural issues we talk about with our clients on a regular basis.
Dog Behaviour
Barking: It's important to understand that barking is a normal behaviour for dogs and is one of many ways for them to try to communicate with you. However it is up to you SUPER parents to learn and understand what it is they are barking at and why. Some even have different pitches and types depending on the reason. Although barking is a "normal" behaviour it does however become rather undesirable for most in excess, especially in the suburbs. It is classed as one of the top leading causes of neighbour disputes and a contributing factor to the rapidly increasing number of abandoned dogs found in pounds and shelters. It can be triggered in many situations such as: the fence line, while out walking (at bikes,dogs, people,cats,etc), to get attention, and in any fearful and anxious situations. The most common underlying factor barking cases is caused by an underlying anxiety which is classed as a behavioural disease. If you notice your dog appearing stressed constantly and/or barking in particular situations; the first step is to look for the cause of the barking, locations and frequency, and to seek professional advice.
TIP: We also strongly discourage use of any type of electric shock or citronella collar. Using this type of punishment may seem effective short term but long term it increases their fear and anxiety which will compress and contribute to worsening your dog's underlying anxiety, causing further undesirable behaviours to develop.
Aggression: This is also classed as a "normal" behaviour expressed by dogs of which depends on the situation and their emotional state connected with it at the time. However, our new generation of domesticated canines appear to be developing more behavioural diseases such as anxiety and fear. The increased anxiety drives our dogs to not think clearly in particular situations where they may feel frightened or threatened and aggression is one of the most common responses. Any type of aggression shown should be taken seriously and it is best to seek help from a professional. A veterinarian is a good place to start to rule out any medical complications that may be contributing and/or causing the aggression by doing a full work-up. A treatment plan can then be developed or if behavioural disease is suspected we can refer you to a qualified Veterinary Behaviourist for a behavioural modification plan.
TIP: It is important to understand not to "punish" your dog for behaviours such as lifting their lip, showing their teeth and/or growling in any situation. This should be taken as a WARNING from your dog and he/she is asking for space as they are highly stressed/anxious. Over time if the early warning signs have been punished, discouraged or ignored, they will be less likely to repeat and next time it will result into a potentially serious bite with no or little warning signs.
Cat Behaviour
Scratching: Scratching is normal cat behaviour that is used to communicate or mark territory. It's something they must do and it can be easier to direct their scratching towards an acceptable surface, especially in the early stages, rather than trying to stop the damage later. Ask us for tips.
Yowling: Owners can find that this is a common problem, particularly early in the morning. This might occur because your cat is hungry, in pain, seeking attention, demanding food or defending his territory.
Spraying: This problem is frequently reported to us by cat owners. You can read more about this issue in the article below.
If you have a question about your pet's behaviour, we are the best people to ask.
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