Dogs are known for their ability to assess people. But how do they do it?
Researchers are learning a lot about dogs' brains. One of the things they're focusing on is how their minds process sounds.
Urinating in the House
A dog who suddenly starts urinating inside your house may be signalling an issue. It might be a behavioral problem, a sign of aging or even something more serious like a urinary tract infection.
The most obvious thing to do is take your pet to the vet and have him checked out. He will likely have a few tests performed to rule out more serious medical problems that could be causing this behavior.
Another option is to ask a certified veterinary behaviorist for tips on solving the problem. This will likely require you to invest some time and money, but it’s worth it in the long run.
One of the most common causes of this type of behavior is due to changes in the home or in your dog’s day to day life. These can include a change in the family (a child moving away for college, a new dog or cat being added, or a baby on the way), a home renovation project, a visitor coming over or a sudden shift in your household routine.
Destructive Chewing
During normal play behavior, your dog may chew, rip or tear toy-like objects. This is a natural part of your dog’s learning process, and it can help him explore his world with his mouth.
However, dogs who destroy items in the home or other environment are doing something completely inappropriate. It’s important to identify the reason for this behavior and find a way to prevent it from occurring again.
Boredom and anxiety are common motivations for destructive chewing. These are often driven by the fact that your dog is not getting enough exercise, or that he needs mental stimulation as well.
Providing your dog with adequate exercise, playing time and toys can go a long way in helping to reduce these behaviors. Plus, exercise helps to release endorphins that are good for your dog’s psyche.
Disruptive Behavior When Left Alone
In a classroom, disruptive behavior can take many forms. From verbal disruptions (such as monopolizing class discussions or talking with friends) to nonverbal ones (such as excessive tardiness, using electronic devices, or silently antagonizing classmates).
These behaviors can interfere with instruction and can negatively impact the student’s academic performance. They can also lead to disciplinary actions, such as being suspended or expelled.
Disruptive behavior is one of the most difficult challenges for teachers. It’s a major reason for teacher turnover and can cause significant job dissatisfaction.
Typically, the behaviors are a result of an underlying anxiety or stress. However, they can also be a sign of another underlying condition such as depression, ADHD, or even a mental health disorder.
Disruptive Behavior When Scent Marking
When you're in the mood for a good old fashioned belly rub, some dogs can get rather competitive. This can lead to a lot of yee haws and other naughty behavior. The best way to deal with this is to reward good behaviour with treats and time out of the house. Some of these treats are the big one or small chows (see our recent blog post). It's a small price to pay for a happy, healthy pet!
