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Specialising In Dog Reactive Behviour

Accredited by APDT, ABTC and UK DOG Behaviour and Training Charter

Qualified and Experienced

Force Free Trainer and Behaviourist

Abnormal Repetitive Behaviours

Dogs often engage in repetitive behaviours, which can sometimes indicate a problem.

Abnormal repetitive behaviours (ARBs) are actions that are often ritualistic, performed in a fixed pattern, and appear to serve no obvious purpose.

These behaviours can be a sign of underlying issues, including stress, anxiety, or medical conditions.

What are Abnormal Repetitive Behaviours?

ARBs are a type of canine compulsive disorder (CCD). They are tail-chasing or digging because they are often out of context, and difficult to interrupt.

Think of them as a dog's version of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in humans.

Does This Sound Familiar?

Tail-chasing: This can be an ARB if the behaviour is frequent, intense, and the dog becomes fixated on it.
Pica: The compulsive eating of non-food items like rocks, dirt, or fabric.
Flank-sucking or blanket-sucking: The dog repeatedly sucks or kneads its own flank or a soft object.
Pica: The compulsive eating of non-food items like rocks, dirt, or fabric.
Excessive licking: The dog compulsively licks a certain body part, which can lead to lick granulomas (self-inflicted sores).
Spinning or circling: The dog repeatedly spins or circles in a tight pattern.
Fly-snapping: The dog compulsively snaps at imaginary flies.
Flank-sucking or blanket-sucking: The dog repeatedly sucks or kneads its own flank or a soft object.

Don't worry, we can help!

Why Do Dogs Develop ARB?

There are many reasons why dogs develop complex behavioural issues.

Some common reasons are

Genetic Predisposition:

Some breeds are more prone to certain ARBs.

Environmental Factors:

Stress and anxiety

are major triggers. A dog may develop an ARB in response to a change in routine, a new family member, or a lack of mental and physical stimulation.

Medical Conditions:

Some medical issues can cause behaviours that look like ARBs.

For instance, a dog with a skin allergy may excessively lick or chew a spot, which can become a compulsive behaviour over time. Neurological conditions can also be a cause.

Boredom

is a common culprit; a dog that doesn't have enough to do may invent its own, self-soothing behviours

Our Approach In Reducing Your Dogs Behaviour

Is Based On

Empathy & Understanding: We know how challenging these behaviours are for both of you.
Science-Based Methods: Utilising proven techniques like systematic desensitisation and counter-conditioning (DSCC) to gently change your dog's emotional response.
Strictly Force-Free: We use only positive reinforcement and humane methods. No fear, pain, or intimidation – ever.
Building trust is paramount.
Holistic View: Considering factors like environment, health, management, and training.