Obsessive Behaviors!

Chewing, Digging, Barking, Chewing, Digging, Barking, Chewing.

Obsessive behaviors are one of the most common reasons that dogs are brought to animal shelters. Most of the time, these are family pets that are friendly, loyal, and all-around good dogs. But their "people" cannot handle their chewing, digging, or barking any longer. Unfortunately, a lot of these dogs are then placed in new homes and exhibit the same obsessive behavior, and a terrible cycle is established.

Why do dogs DO THAT?

All three of these behaviors are quite normal for a dog to do. A dog that lies down with a good "chewie" is one happy dog! Dogs make their own "beds" by digging a good hole in the ground. It keeps them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Wild dogs, and some domesticated ones enjoy the sound of their own voice, and like to "sing to the moon." The problem arises when we people feel it is not appropriate for the dogs to do what comes natural to them.

Ask yourself this question:

* Do I want my dog to completely stop his behavior?(chewing, digging, or barking), or do I want him to not do it so much?

If you want your dog to completely stop his behavior, I personally believe you are asking too much of your dog. Would you like to completely stop one of your favorite things to do? What is your favorite hobby? Would you be happy if you could never do it again? What about how you spend most of your time when you're bored? Would you like to stop watching TV forever? Chewing, digging, and barking are natural behaviors for dogs. Do not try to completely squelch their natural instincts, instead redirect them.

Be realistic with your expectations. Your dog is a dog, not a person. Let him be a dog. If you feel your dog is not obsessive, or even if you do, please check out the links below. You'll get some good ideas on how to help your situation.

HELP LINKS:
Help with Chewing

Help With Digging

Help with Barking

But my dog is really obsessive!

If your dog is doing these natural behaviors in excess, you will still probably benefit from checking out the links above for some ideas. But first, you need to understand the probable cause for your dogs excessive behavior.

Separation Anxiety

Some dogs experience pronounced anxiety when left alone. A dog that participates in his obsessive behavior immediately (or shortly) after you leave him alone is probably exhibiting separation anxiety. If your dog is demonstrating this behavior, please read "How to Handle Separation Anxiety."

Bored

Most dogs that have made a habit of obsessive behaviors are bored. Dogs are social animals, they need to be socialized with other dogs. Have you considered getting another dog? Two dogs that get along can occupy each other for hours and expend more energy with each other than they ever could with a human! If getting another dog is not what you had in mind, consider doggie day-care. Try to find a neighbor with a dog, and three times a week, or so, bring your dog to their house/yard, or have them bring their dog to your place. This will give your dog some company and social doggie interaction. If you're considering getting another dog, please read "Two or More Dogs." Also, be aware that another dog could learn all the bad habits of your present dog. There is always the possibility that you could have two obsessive dogs on your hands!

Lonely

Is your dog banned to the yard all day, every day? Or is he a "permanent" outside dog? Dogs are pack animals and have a high pack-drive. They have a strong need to be included in the family. Going outside to feed and visit your dog for 20 minutes a day is not including him in the family. If your dog spends most of his time outside, please read "The Outside Dog."

Mentally Unfulfilled

Dogs are highly intelligent creatures. Circling the same yard day after day does not provide much mental stimulation! Most dogs like to feel productive. They like to have a "job" to do. If you can't take your dog with you to work, or on errands, then find somewhere you can take him. A basic obedience class is a wonderful way to spend time with your dog. There are also classes like Agility, Flyball, Tracking, Frisbee, and Herding for even more mental and physical exercise! Don't miss doggie classes, as they are a wonderful opportunity to bond with your dog, and he will love you for it!

Ostracized

Dogs who are banished from the house, and/or banished from sleeping in your bedroom can feel they are ostracized from the "pack" (your family). Your house is your "den," where all "pack members" come together and enjoy the important bonding experience of sleeping in the same area. Many obsessive behaviors seem to disappear when a dog starts sleeping in the bedroom!

Does one or more of the reasons above sound like it fits your dog or your situation? Work on the reason that he has become obsessive, obedience train your dog, and let your dog be part of the family. If you don't feel that you are able to include your dog in your everyday family life you may want to consider finding him a home that is able to provide him with the attention, security, and social life that a dog thrives on. If you chain your dog, please read "The Proper Way to Tether or Chain your Dog."

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Written by Brandy J. Oliver, MA 1996, copyright protected. May be distributed for educational purposes as long as it is reprinted in full, including by line, website address, and copyright notice. If you would like to use this article in your newsletter or other publication, please click here to contact us for permission and requirements. This article may not be reprinted electronically in any form, however please feel free to link to this article.