If my dog is having behavior problems, are they capable of change?
Yes, any behavior can be changed. However, the extent of change depends on the severity of the symptoms or the specific issues at hand. It also depends on the time, effort, and patience we're willing to invest to see the behavior change take effect.
Dr. Damon Padgett
Clements Ferry Veterinary
When would you suggest starting obedience training with your dog?
I recommend starting from day one. As soon as you bring your puppy or any new dog home, learning begins and habits start forming. This can range from establishing a routine for the dog to serious obedience training.
What are the most common behavior problems in dogs and how can we address them?
The most common behavior problems can be aggression, barking, chewing, crate training issues, house soiling, howling, mounting other dogs, separation anxiety, and whining. To address them, we start with a thorough history to distinguish between a true behavioral problem and any underlying medical issue. Then we do a detailed examination to further clarify this distinction.
Can behavior issues in my dog ever indicate that they're sick?
Absolutely. Some behavioral issues like bad breath, circling, head pressing, panting, inability to get comfortable, inappropriate urination, and scooting on the ground can all be signs of various health issues, including periodontal disease, neurological issues, pain, urinary tract infections, tapeworms, or anal gland issues.
How can a veterinarian help address my dog's behavioral problems?
Firstly, we ensure the problem isn't purely medical by conducting a thorough examination and possibly diagnostics. We then work in conjunction with certified behaviorists and trainers to create the right plan to address the behavioral issues.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (843) 471-1711, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram
Dog Behavior - FAQs
Dr. Damon Padgett
Clements Ferry Veterinary
When should my dog start obedience training?
Day one is the best time to start obedience training. Habits begin forming as soon as you bring your new dog home. So good and bad habits start day one. Even if it's just starting a schedule, the training needs to start on day one.
What are the most important basic commands that my dog should know, in your opinion?
The most important commands entirely depend on what you want out of a dog. It's important to understand what you want your dog to be like, whether it's a dog that listens, doesn't jump up and down on people, comes when you call it, or doesn't poop and pee in the house.
Do you have any tips on how I can socialize my puppy?
Primary socialization for a puppy starts at 7 to 12 weeks of age. Try to get them out and experience everything that they possibly can, such as different sights, sounds, and smells.
Should my dog be punished for bad behavior?
I don't strongly support negative reinforcement training. I believe that dogs are created to please and it's up to us to bring that out in them. If they do something we don't want them to do, it's our problem because we haven't shown them properly the way to do it. When you train without negative reinforcement, it will take longer to establish that habit. However, I would prefer a dog to do what we're asking them to do because they want to please, rather than doing it out of fear of punishment.
Do you believe that my dog is too old to be trained, such as if I were to adopt a dog from the shelter?
There's no age restriction on training. It may take a little longer to unlearn some things if you get an older dog, but they're never too old to train.
What should I look for in a dog trainer?
It depends on what type of training you want and what you want for your dog. I'm a big fan of in-house training where the trainers come into your home, assess the situation, and tailor a plan that's specifically made for your dog. Remember, training is lifelong.
Are there specific vaccinations that are needed for dog training classes?
All dogs should be up to date at least with one or two Distemper and Parvo vaccines, as well as their Bordetella or kennel cough vaccine before being exposed to other dogs. It's also recommended to have multiple dewormings and a fecal parasite test.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (843) 471-1711, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram