A Dog That Plays Too Rough
My-Dog.info > Dog Care
If your dog plays too rough, it may be the case that he has
not learned how to play properly. Mouthing behaviour is a normal,
basic instinct in all dogs and they need to learn their limits
when interacting in this fashion. This can result in problems if
it is not "nipped in the bud". Although you understand
and are working with your dog's behaviour, the same understanding
will unlikely be extended from the parent of a child who is
injured by your dog's rambunctious play behaviour.
Supervised interaction with people is critical and is an
excellent approach to curbing undesirable behaviour.
When it comes to correcting behaviour problems in young
animals, the 3 E's are critical – exercise, exercise, and
more exercise! This is also something that you should incorporate
into your daily schedule to provide a constructive outlet for all
of your dog's pent up energy. You should also let him know when
his behaviour is inappropriate through a loud "ouch!"
or "no!" which interrupts his mouthing. Rather than
coax him to begin playing again, ignore him for 20 to 230 seconds
before re-initiating play and repeat this if aggressive behaviour
persists. This way he begins to learn consequences for his
actions.
In speaking with Dr. Gary Landsberg, a veterinarian who
specializes in treating companion animal behaviour problems
through Doncaster Animal Clinic in Toronto, Ontario, he suggested
allowing your dog to play with other dogs. This will allow him to
learn to control his play but should only be done if he is
friendly towards other dogs. This is how dogs normally learn
about the limits and consequences of mouthing behaviour thereby
ensuring they interact appropriately with other living entities
and do not cause harm.
Some other suggestions that Dr. Landsberg provided include:
1.Avoid direct physical contact play. Direct your dog’s
mouthing behaviour to a ball, stick, or frisbee instead.
2.Enroll him in a good obedience school – one that trains
based on rewards rather than focuses on punishment. This will not
only provide him with another avenue for socialization, but will
provide you with the tools to ensure you have control over his
behaviour. This way, should he misbehave, you can regain control
by reverting to trained behaviour patterns such as come, sit, and
stay.
3.The use of a head halter may also be of help. These are
collars that are placed both around the neck and muzzle and
provide for better control, especially if he has a tendency to
misbehave or not listen during leash work.
On a final note, you should ensure that your dog is neutered.
Although being an intact male dog does not cause aggressive
behaviour, it may influence and promote it. Having your dog
neutered also reduces the potential for other undesirable
behaviour traits (i.e., wandering) and future medical conditions
(i.e., prostatitis and certain tumors), as well as avoiding
contributing to the pet over-population issue.
If all of this fails to help, considering seeking out the
assistance of a veterinary behaviourist.
Reprinted with permission from www.animalhealthcare.ca
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