“That dog is chasing its tail in circles! Isn’t that funny?”
"Look! That dog is attacking its own foot! Hilarious!!
What we may view as comical (and YouTube hits confirm it!) is actually a result of dogs suffering from a distressing, obsessive behavioral condition. Some behavioral problems seen in dogs are a result of genetics, but sadly most of the behavior problems seen around the world are created as a misguided result of humans encouraging bad canine behavior. Although mostly unintentional (i.e. comforting a dog when it shows fear, reinforcing fearful behaviors), some doggy antics which we find amusing and encourage are detrimental to your pet’s health and mental wellbeing.
Some dog breeds are genetically predisposed to some behavioral problems, but selective breeding (with certified blood lines) helps to reduce the risk of your puppy being born with underlying genetic behavior problems. Often obsessive behaviors in our dogs are as a result of us, the owners, inadvertently encouraging them. We may find it amusing that our cheeky Bull Terrier will leap and bark at a spinning ceiling fan – or that our energetic Kelpie will chase light spots reflected on the lounge room walls. Each of these dogs are demonstrating serious mental issues – both of which have more than likely been encouraged at some point in time by their humans. Working with a professional dog behaviorist is the first step in undoing any damage an owner may have accidentally caused.
Understanding canine psychology and subsequently setting good structure for them is the second step in reducing the occurrence of obsessive behaviors in dogs. Our dogs are individuals, and their antics and actions can keep us amused for years. Recognizing what behaviors are normal and healthy for your dog and which are potentially damaging could mean the difference between a good relationship with your pooch or one that is less than enjoyable for you both.
Some dog breeds are genetically predisposed to some behavioral problems, but selective breeding (with certified blood lines) helps to reduce the risk of your puppy being born with underlying genetic behavior problems. Often obsessive behaviors in our dogs are as a result of us, the owners, inadvertently encouraging them. We may find it amusing that our cheeky Bull Terrier will leap and bark at a spinning ceiling fan – or that our energetic Kelpie will chase light spots reflected on the lounge room walls. Each of these dogs are demonstrating serious mental issues – both of which have more than likely been encouraged at some point in time by their humans. Working with a professional dog behaviorist is the first step in undoing any damage an owner may have accidentally caused.
Understanding canine psychology and subsequently setting good structure for them is the second step in reducing the occurrence of obsessive behaviors in dogs. Our dogs are individuals, and their antics and actions can keep us amused for years. Recognizing what behaviors are normal and healthy for your dog and which are potentially damaging could mean the difference between a good relationship with your pooch or one that is less than enjoyable for you both.
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