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Behavior & Training

  • Territorial aggression refers to aggressive behavior directed toward people (mainly unfamiliar people) or other animals approaching a dog's home or property. Territorial behavior is a normal canine behavior, but many dogs that exhibit territorial aggression have an underlying fear or frustration.

  • An agility trial is a competitive canine sporting event where dogs of various breeds navigate obstacles and are judged on speed and accuracy. Agility training can be a fun activity with many benefits for you and your dog.

  • With a little effort, a lot of patience, the advice of veterinary professionals, and a new anxiety wrap, you and your dog may successfully weather the storm. Take some preventive steps to help distract your dog during storms and use food or toy rewards to make the time less stressful.

  • Barking is a normal and natural behavior for dogs. Underlying physical and behavioral illnesses can trigger barking. Many types of barking can be prevented by ensuring your dog’s needs are met, and by using positive reinforcement to train desired behaviors. This handout provides example scenarios and sample training plans using the ABC method.

  • There are many non-pharmaceutical products designed to improve a pet's behavior. There is little oversight for many of these products, and the label “natural” does not guarantee a product is safe to use in dogs and cats. Ask your veterinarian before using any over-the-counter product for your pet.

  • Many behaviors are normal but problematic for a particular person or household. Some behaviors are not normal and may be unsafe for the pet or for others. The first step is to ask your veterinarian to examine your pet for signs of physical illness. Then, a behavior consultation can be scheduled to assess the behavior and design a treatment strategy.

  • Several drugs are now used to help treat pet behavior problems. To determine whether drug therapy should be considered, it is essential to determine the cause of the behavior. Many dogs and cats can also benefit from medication that helps them learn more efficiently. It is important to have a behavioral and physical health assessment before giving medication.

  • It is not unusual for behavioral problems to develop in older pets. Physical changes can exacerbate prior low-level behavioral conditions and illnesses. Age-related cognitive decline can directly contribute to new behavioral concerns. This handout discusses what to look for and what to discuss with your veterinarian.

  • Cats can exhibit many behaviors that are considered normal but are nevertheless undesirable. Several products are available to help with behavior management in cats. This handout outlines some helpful suggestions for products that may help.

  • Dogs can exhibit many behaviors that are considered normal but are nevertheless undesirable. There are many products available to help with behavior management in dogs. This handout outlines some helpful suggestions for products that may help.