ANSC 378 LECTURE 8

Overview of Common Dog Behaviour Problems

This document serves as a comprehensive guide to various behaviour problems encountered in dogs. These problems encompass destructiveness, escaping, urination issues, attention-seeking behaviour, feeding problem behaviours, maternal behaviours, stereotypies, the impact of aging, and considerations for raising puppies.

Detailed Breakdown of Behaviour Problems

1. Destructiveness

  • Definition: Behaviour characterized by damaging or destroying items in the environment.
  • Common instances during puppyhood; may carry into adulthood if not addressed.
  • Causes: Boredom, loneliness, anxiety, stress, and sometimes excessive energy or hyperactivity.
  • Treatment: Redirect behaviour, provide chew toys, and create an engaging environment.

2. Escaping

  • Definition: Behaviour in which a dog attempts to break free from confinement or restricted areas.
  • Key Causes: Erratic or inconsistent daily routines, an unsecure environment, and rewarding associations with the outside.
  • Treatment Strategies: Secure enclosures, establish consistent outing schedules, and avoid reinforcing escape behaviour with attention.

3. Urination Issues

  • Soiling Problems
    • Submissive Urination: Dog urinates when approached or scolded; often a sign of anxiety, shyness, or prior abuse.
    • Excitement Urination: Occurs when a dog is overly excited, typically in young dogs under a year.
    • Territorial Marking: Related to asserting dominance or marking territory.
    • Treatment: Identify underlying medical issues and reinforce proper bathroom habits.

4. Attention-Seeking Behaviour

  • Definition: Behaviour performed to gain attention from the owner.
  • Examples: Barking, jumping, or performing unusual actions like chasing shadows.
  • Treatment: Ignore unwanted behaviours and provide attention for positive behaviours only.

5. Feeding Problem Behaviours

  • Gorging
    • Behaviour: Rapid consumption of food; can lead to health issues such as obesity.
    • Treatment: Spread out feeding, use puzzle feeders, and ensure all dogs receive an adequate share of food.
  • Conditioned Food Aversions
    • Definition: Developed aversions to specific foods after episodes of illness related to those foods.
    • Example: The "Garcia Effect."
  • Coprophagy
    • Definition: The habit of dogs consuming feces.
    • Treatment: Use aversive substances on feces to deter the behaviour.

6. Problem Maternal Behaviours

  • Issues include maternal indifference and cannibalistic behaviours in certain stressed or weak animals.
  • May arise from hormonal changes or inadequate maternal stimulation.

7. Stereotypies

  • Definitions: Repetitive behaviours without an apparent goal, often seen as coping mechanisms for stress or boredom.
  • Key Criteria: 1) Repetitiveness, 2) Lack of an obvious goal or function, 3) Fixed action pattern.
  • Examples: Tail chasing, flank sucking, and excessive grooming.
  • Treatment: Address stressors in the environment and consider behavioural therapies.

8. Aging Considerations

  • Older dogs typically display mellow behaviour but may face issues such as cognitive dysfunction, anxiety, aggression, house-soiling, and sensory impairments.
  • Monitoring these signs is crucial for maintaining quality of life.

9. Raising Puppies

  • Important to consider adult behaviour when raising a puppy; the socialization period from 3-12 weeks is crucial for positive development.
  • Early veterinary intervention and temperament testing can prevent future behavioural issues.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Ability to identify and evaluate specific behaviour problems based on observed behaviours and to propose mitigative strategies.
  2. Understanding of the developmental pathways of problem behaviours in dogs.
  3. Knowledge of the criteria that classify behaviours as stereotypies and capability to provide relevant examples.

Textbook References

  • Chapters referencing specific behaviours and their management include:
    • Chapters 12-15: Focus on destructiveness, escaping, urination, attention-seeking behaviours.
    • Chapters 16-17: Include problem feeding behaviours and issues related to maternal care.
    • Chapters 18-20: Discuss stereotypies, aging factors, and techniques for raising puppies effectively.

Ethical and Practical Implications

Addressing dog behaviour issues ethically involves understanding the root causes behind behaviours, potential medical issues, and the importance of a supportive environment for both the animal and owner. Encouraging a positive living space for dogs enhances their wellbeing and promotes desired behaviours without resorting to punishment or negative reinforcement.

Conclusion

The study of companion animal behaviour encompasses a vast array of topics and issues. Understanding these behaviours is essential for effective training, rehabilitation, and fostering healthy relationships between dogs and their owners. This document serves as a foundational reference for addressing common behavioural problems in dogs, reinforcing that a well-informed approach leads to happier animals and owners alike.