Determination and Treatment of Dog Behavior Problems

     The root of dog behavior problems can either be of medical or behavioral nature, at times, both. The dogs clinical history, a physical examination and/or diagnostic testing the underlying causes contributing to the problem.

Some behavioral causes of dog behavior problems can be any change in the dogs environment such as having a new person to interact with or moving. Training, more specifically with regards to reinforcement and punishment, can also play a role. Its the method of training that can either stop or allow the continuation of the problem. Medical causes are ones that are the most difficult to improve on for they may be genetic factors that determine the dogs response to stimuli. The dogs environment during its most sensitive periods of development, the lack of stimulation, exposure, socialization and stressful events can also have an impact on the dogs behavior.

In order to put a stop to dog behavior problems, there are several ways to determine the underlying cause of them. Behavioral causes can be determined using the dogs history. An in depth analysis of the medical and behavioral past including the training of the dog would prove to be helpful. However, a diagnosis of a behavioral cause can only be done after all medical factors, such as age and a physical examination have been proven to not be a cause.

A decline in any of the senses, organ failure, hormonal diseases and any other disease that might cause any pain or discomfort are medical causes of dog behavior problems. Determining if the behavior is due to a medical problem, the assessment of clinical history and a physical examination are used. It would be helpful if any and all behavioral or medical changes that have occurred are detailed. Based on what is reported and the results of the examination, neurological examination or sensory testing may be performed. Other more comprehensive tests may only be done by specialists.

Once the cause of any dog behavior problems is determined, treatment to stop it can be done. Before beginning any therapy for it, any medical issue that has been diagnoses must first be treated. A change in diets or issuing a drug may be important in differentiating between a medical or behavioral cause. If a tumor is diagnosed or if a high sexual behavior is noted, surgery is an option for treatment.

A veterinarian can begin treatment of dog behavior problems for any long standing problems. Do not treat dogs with any so-called natural remedies or supplements like herbal remedies, homeopathic remedies and therapeutic touch and acupuncture. There are no studies that show if any of these types of treatments are actually effective. Although the same can be said for most drugs used in treatment, these have been proven to be effective in human behavior therapy. Be smart in choosing how to go about any problems and treat dogs the right way.