Can I Keep My Dog Despite His Behavior?

I love reading advice columns, but I was especially distressed over a recent letter in which the writer described guilt over needing to crate her dog for almost endless hours during the day and night, with only a short walk at midday to provide relief. The crating became necessary because the dog was destructive while the letter writer was at work.

Many people experience similar distressing situations during the life of their pet, and tragically, too many individuals and families think the only solution is to give the dog up. That attitude contributes to overcrowding and euthanasia in animal shelters across the country.

The fact is that dedication to your dog will take you much further and produce the reward of companionship for many years to come.

Make as much one-on-one time for your pet as possible. Get up a little earlier in the morning to take your pooch for a walk. If you have another event after work, do you best to stop by your home beforehand to give your dog at least a few minutes to stretch and take a potty break.

Maximize your leisure time with your pet. After all, giving your critter plenty of exercise will also get you active, which is why people that own dogs are shown by research to live longer.

If your dog is destructive, it is likely because he is bored during the day when he has no companionship. Enrolling him in training that specializes in dog behavior modification can teach him to redirect his boredom. Make sure he has access to plenty of approved toys during the day and night. Do your best to keep your home clean so that valuable items are out of your pooch's reach.

Still worrying? Doggie daycare is a great resource, and many of them offer in-house obedience training, so while your pup gets exercise and good company, he is also being bettered and will return to you more disciplined than ever.

Enlist the help of neighbors, friends, and/or local relatives you trust to take Fido for a walk and administer anything else he needs--meals, medicine, etc. If this isn't possible or your dog won't do well in doggie daycare or you can't afford it, then consider hiring a professional pet sitter or dog walker to come in at least twice per day to handle it.

Another potential solution is to adopt another dog. It may seem counterintuitive, but if a canine has a constant playmate, they are less likely to destroy your possessions--that is, if the two critters get along. So be careful if you choose to adopt again. But finding another home should be an absolute last resort.