Behaviour Problems
Many dogs develop behaviour problems. These may be due to:
- Medical causes
- Emotional responses and drivers
- Learnt behaviour which enables the dog to get what they want or avoid what they don’t
- Owner expectations and dogs unclear on rules or lack of training
Behaviour modification is based on addressing the cause. Therefore, the first action is to visit the vet to rule out any medical cause, especially where the behaviour had a sudden onset. If you are not referred via a vet, I will ask you to have your dog checked before I visit.
Before the visit, I will ask you to complete a comprehensive questionnaire to gather information about your dog, household, lifestyle and the behaviour. This information will allow me to get a clear picture of the dog in general and will allow time during the visit to be spend exploring the specific problem, developing a behaviour modification plan and starting initial training. I will aim to help you understand your dog’s behaviour and we will design a management, training and behaviour modification plan based on positive methods which will help your dog and fit in with your lifestyle and meet your needs. This will help you work with your dog, improve your relationship and reduce areas of conflict / stress for both of you so you can again enjoy the full joy of dog ownership.
The types of problems I can help with are:
- Excessive barking, destruction
- Over-activity
- Anxiety and fears, including noise aversion
- Compulsive behaviours
- Separation anxiety
- Reactivity to dogs and people
- Aggressive behaviour, e.g. resource guarding, territorial
Dealing with behaviour problems in dogs requires time and commitment from the owner. Whilst I will advise on a behaviour modification plan, you will need to spend time working with your dog to implement this. There are rarely quick fixes in the real world.
All cases must be referred to me from your vet via Vet referrals
The cost for a behaviour home visit is £400 . The initial visit will last for approximately 2 hours. You will receive a full report and behaviour modification plan after the visit and further email and phone support for 3 months after your consult. Follow on visits may be required and will be charged at £120 per session. Milage in excess of 10 miles will be charged at 45p / mile.
As a full member of the APBC and an ABTC registered CAB, if you are insured, your insurance may cover the cost of behaviour consults, but you will need to check your policy.
If you would like to discuss your dog’s behaviour problems, please email me.
