Articles

Dogs + Behavior & Training

  • Aggression may be defined as any threat or harmful behavior directed toward another individual or group. Aggression in dogs commonly includes body language or threat displays such as a hard stare, growling, barking, snarling, lunging, snapping, and/or biting. There are many different categories or types of canine aggression including territorial, possessive, maternal/protective, pain-related, predatory, frustration, social conflict-related, sexual, disease-related, and fear- or anxiety-related aggression. The most common presentation of aggression is fear or anxiety motivated. The treatment of aggression will depend on the cause of aggression. Aggression should first be discussed with your veterinarian regarding the most appropriate treatment.

  • Territorial behavior is a normal canine behavior, though territorial aggression can result in injury to a person or animal. Many dogs that exhibit territorial aggression have an underlying fear or frustration that contributes to their level of arousal. Territorial aggression may be preventable if recognized and addressed early.

  • The Alaskan Malamute is the largest of all sled dogs, and has a somewhat wolf-like appearance. Friendly and outgoing with a distinct independent streak, the Malamute is a great companion and, like most working breeds, thrives when given a job to do.

  • Descendants of English Foxhounds brought to the US in the 17th century by George Washington and several of his contemporaries, American English Coonhounds were bred to handle North America's rougher terrain. A dual-purpose dog, they were employed to hunt fox during the day and raccoons at night, using their endless energy and enthusiastic bawl.

  • The American Eskimo Dog (Eskie to his friends) comes in the largest size range of any of the spitz dogs, from six-pound toy to 40-pound standard. Fun-loving and smart, this is one of the most companionable of spitz breeds.

  • The American Foxhound is a gentle, loving breed that does well in packs. If one dog is your limit, the humans in the family will have to be the pack. In other words, this breed does not do well isolated in the back yard, but must be part of a group. Several strains exist today, most kept by dedicated hunters.

  • With a little effort, a lot of patience, the advice of veterinary professionals, and a new anxiety wrap, you and your dog may successfully weather the storm. Take some preventive steps to help distract your dog during storms and use food or toy rewards to make the time less stressful.

  • Barking is a normal and natural behavior for dogs. Underlying physical and behavioral illnesses can trigger barking. Many types of barking can be prevented by ensuring your dog’s needs are met, and by using positive reinforcement to train desired behaviors. This handout provides example scenarios and sample training plans using the ABC method.

  • The Bearded Collie just loves life. He is an active, shaggy dog with an effervescent personality, always ready to join his people in any activity.

  • The Beauceron is alert, courageous, and loyal, making him an ideal family guardian. He's also eager to please and extremely intelligent, gifted at any task involving learning, memory, and reasoning.

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