Some canine behavior problems, such as housesoiling, affect only a dog’s owners. However, problems such as escaping and excessive barking can result in neighborhood disputes and violations of animal control ordinances.

Positive reinforcement is the presentation of something pleasant or rewarding immediately following a behavior.

Does your dog: Get on the furniture and refuse to get off? Nudge your hand, insisting on being petted or played with? Refuse to come when called? Defend its food bowl or toys from you? “Nothing in life is free” can help.

At the Dumb Friends League, we believe that dogs of all sizes are happier, healthier and safer when they can be indoors with their people the majority of the time.

An aversive is something that your dog finds unpleasant. It can be used to discourage her from a particular action or place.

Many behavior problems in dogs are the result of boredom or excess energy. Toys offer mental and physical stimulation and enrichment.

When you feel frustrated with your dog’s behavior, remember that someone must teach a dog what is acceptable behavior and what is not.

A training tether is a temporary management tool that can be used to prevent behavior problems or assist in resolving an existing problem.

Dogs with separation anxiety exhibit behavior problems when they’re left alone. Typically, they’ll have a dramatic anxiety response within a short time (20-45 minutes) after their owners leave them.