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Chasing moving objects such as cars and bicycles is very rewarding to dogs, yet can be dangerous. Early intervention can prevent the behavior from escalating. Behavior modification techniques, such as response substitution, desensitization and counterconditioning, are effective treatment strategies.
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Eating feces, known as coprophagia, is common and can be normal behavior for a dog. The behavior may have originated to keep the den or sleeping area clean. For persistent or sudden-onset coprophagia, it is important to screen for medical and behavioral illnesses. It is helpful to supervise your dog so that you can clean any stool immediately.
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Sometimes it is necessary to use a special type of collar to prevent your dog from licking a healing would or incision. Be sure that your dog is comfortable and that the protective gear fits properly. If your dog is not adjusting easily to the cone, talk with your veterinarian. Medication can be prescribed to reduce anxiety so that your dog can be safe and calm.
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Many dogs routinely greet people by jumping up on them. Jumping up can cause a person to be frightened or even injured. All dogs can be trained to greet people in a calm manner. Training should focus on rewarding desired behavior while being careful not to inadvertently reward the undesirable jumping behavior.
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There are numerous reasons that a dog might soil the house with urine and/or stools. Determining the specific reason is essential for developing a treatment program. Dogs that soil the home continuously or intermittently from the time they were first obtained may not have been properly house-trained.
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Urine marking is normal in both male and female dogs and can even occur in dogs who are spayed or neutered. The underlying cause for urine marking should be determined so that an appropriate treatment plan can be implemented. Management, prevention, and supervision are important for a good outcome.
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Some dogs exhibit signs of distress when they are left alone. Separation related behaviors include vocalizing, panting, pacing, and house soiling. Treatment includes behavior modification and, in some cases, medication.
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Dogs often steal objects to play with them or to get someone to chase them. Stealing thus becomes rewarding to the dog. Supervision to prevent stealing is the best strategy. It is important to refrain from chasing your dog to retrieve stolen goods. Dogs can be trained to give back stolen items.
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Urination during greetings occurs due to emotional conflict. The behavior may reflect submissive behavior or excitement but as is largely involuntary. Punishment is contraindicated. Treatment includes teaching dogs to greet calmly and teaching people to avoid assertive gestures.
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What is normal and what is not? The answer is: when the behavior is harmless or just annoying, it is probably normal. When the behavior is destructive, disruptive, or places people or other pets at risk, it is not normal. Addressing the problems early, before they become ingrained, is the best hope for avoiding future problems. Dogs will be dogs, but people are still ultimately responsible for them.