Grades 5-6

Many dogs and cats are euthanized annually due to behaviour problems.In fact, poor behaviour is the leading reason for euthanasia of dogs and cats in the US. Owner education is the key to preventing many unwanted behaviours. Pet owners; should understand that pet owners are responsible for the actions of their pets. Start by downloading the lesson handouts (pdf) and printing them out. They include fun games, puzzles, and quizzes to help your child learn.

Common complaints about dogs are:

• Biting (aggression)
• Excessive barking
• Chewing
• Accidents (urinating or defecating) in the house
• Jumping on people
• Fearfulness
• Begging
• Roaming

Common complaints about cats are:

• Biting or scratching (aggression)
• Excessive meowing or howling
• Destruction of furniture
• Accidents in the house
• Spraying
• Roaming

Pet problems are people problems. The key to avoiding pet problems is through owner education, pet training, understanding your pet's needs and time. Once a puppy or kitten exhibits bad behaviour, it has learned to do that behaviour. Owners must train and supervise their pets early on and diligently to avoid unwanted behaviour. Furthermore, training your pet through reward rather than punishment is the most effective way of discipline. Exercising physical force to get your pet to comply is not recommended as this can abuse, confuse and scare your pet. Praise, affection, love, time and reward are essential for a good pet-owner relationship.

What are some steps that a pet would recommend to an owner on how to avoid aberrant pet behavior?

• Set rules and be consistent (i.e. last week you let me eat table scraps and now you won't).
• Prevent opportunities for aberrant behaviour (i.e. if you didn't want your shoe chewed, why did you leave it out for me to find?).
• Do not punish me if I misbehave, rather reward me for good behavior. Correct bad behavior with positive alternatives (i.e. replace a slipper with a chew toy or a litter box for a plant).
• Observe me and care for my needs (i.e. my water bowl is empty a lot; you don't walk me as often as needed).
• Do not physically force me to comply with your commands.
• Do not play too rough or encourage me to bite you.
• Socialize me if you want me to play and be nice to other dogs and children.
• Take me to a veterinarian if I am not well.
• Give me lots of time, love, compassion and attention - I deserve it and I give you those things!

Conclusion

A well-behaved dog equals a happy owner. If your dog is behaving in a way that is unacceptable, consider what you can do, as the owner, to correct the problem. Often, if you change your behavior, they will change theirs. Follow the tips we have listed above as a guide for your dog. If you have any questions on behavioral issues, please contact our office.