“A behaviourist will carry out an assessment to identify why the dog is behaving that way. The assessment looks at everything, no stone is left unturned..” - Sam Hughes

Help! I Need Help With My Dog’s Behaviour.

Introduction:

Dogs have unique personalities. While many dogs are well-adjusted, confident, calm and happy, others might develop adverse behaviours that are challenging for you to manage.

 If you are struggling with your dog's behaviour, seeking professional support can make a significant difference. 

In this blog post, we'll explore what happens when you need dog behavioural support and how it can benefit both you and your dog. 

When Should You See A Dog Behaviourist?

You have your ideas of how your dog should behave. Problem behaviours for some, won’t be an issue for others. You may be able to manage your dog's behaviour so it doesn’t affect other people or animals.

If your dog's behaviour is a problem or a risk to people or animals you should seek behavioural intervention. 

What Can A Dog Behaviourist Help With?

Some of the behavioural issues that we help with are 

• Abnormal repetitive behaviours

• Fear-based behaviours 

• Pessimism and anxiety

• Dog -dog reactive behaviours

• Phobias

• Excess barking

• Multi-dog household issues

• Noise anxieties

• Human Aggression

• Guarding behaviours

• Separation related behaviours

• Frustration and over-excitement https://www.dogtrainingleicestershire.co.uk/blog/b/how-to-stop-my-dogs-reactivity

• Lack of ability to rest/sleep

How Do I Change My Dog’s Behaviour?

A behaviourist will carry out an assessment to identify why the dog is behaving that way. 

The assessment looks at everything, no stone is left unturned.

Rovers Return offers a free initial conversation designed to gather information, understand your needs, and determine what level of support you may need. It is a foundation for building a relationship and tailoring solutions for your specific needs.

During the call, I will introduce myself, find out some background information, understand your challenges and needs, set goals and objectives, see if an assessment is necessary and advise you of the most appropriate plan for your needs. 

Purpose of a Behavioural Assessment

The primary goals of a behavioural assessment are to:

• Identify specific behavioural issues.

• Understand the underlying causes of these behaviours.

• Evaluate the dog's breed, temperament and personality.

• Develop a customised behaviour modification plan.

• Monitor progress and make necessary adjustments.

A history of the dog and the family will be taken and discussed with you. The process usually takes 1-2 hours. 

What Is Behaviour Modification?

Behaviour modification is a fundamental approach used to change undesirable behaviours in dogs. It focuses on the causes of the behaviour and how to support you in effectively changing your dog's behaviour by reinforcing desired behaviours while reducing or eliminating unwanted ones. 

Steps in Behaviour Modification

Effective behaviour modification typically follows a structured process:

1. Assessment: Identifying the specific behaviours that need to be changed and understanding the context in which they occur. This includes observing the dog’s behaviour and gathering detailed information from the owner about the dog’s history and environment.

2. Liaise with your Vet: Behaviour can be linked to pain and health, so having information about treatment can be an advantage.

3. Setting Goals: Defining clear, achievable goals for the behaviour modification program. This might involve reducing behaviours and teaching new, appropriate behaviours.

4. Developing a Plan: Creating a detailed plan that outlines the strategies and techniques to be used. This plan is tailored to the individual dog and its specific issues.

5. Implementation: Consistently applying the behaviour modification techniques. This requires patience and commitment from the owner, as changes in behaviour will take time. Every dog is different.

6. Monitoring and Adjustment: Regularly reviewing progress and making necessary adjustments to the plan. Behaviour modification is an ongoing process, and flexibility is key to addressing any new challenges that arise.

Benefits of Behaviour Modification

Behavior modification offers numerous benefits:

• Improved Behaviour: Helps eliminate or reduce undesirable behaviours, and improve their well-being.

• Enhanced Relationship: Strengthens the bond between the dog and owner through positive interactions and clear communication.

• Increased Confidence: Builds the dog’s confidence and reduces anxiety, leading to a happier and healthier pet. Increase your confidence to manage and change your dog's behaviour. 

• Safety: Ensures the safety of the dog and those around it by addressing potentially dangerous behaviours, such as aggression.

Behaviour change takes time, Rovers Return offers support for you to change your dog's behaviour. I offer an assessment, a foundation programme and a maintenance program. 

Conclusion - Are you ready to book?

If you are curious about behaviour work for your dog but you are still unsure book your free call to discuss your concerns.

Behaviour change takes time, it is not magic and you will need to set aside short periods to put the behaviour modification plan into place, changes will need to be made to prevent your dog from practising undesirable behaviours.

If you decide to go ahead you have different options

• Book the assessment only and pay a monthly subscription that can be cancelled at any time.

• Book a two-month reactivity program 

• Book a six-month program

Payment plans are available