Behavior Modification and Training of Emotional Dogs
I define an“emotionally sensitive dog” as one that exhibits generalized concern, fear, anxiety, and/or aggression. Aggression is usually fear-based.
Emotional dogs have difficulty adapting to our world, whether in the home, outside, or both.
This population of dogs is dear to my heart because they need more of our understanding, knowledge, and care to thrive as members of our families.
They are also the most rewarding cases to work through. Teaching and training emotional dogs is so rewarding because appropriate interventions can improve their lives and, as a direct result, the client’s quality of life.
As a pet parent of an emotional dog, you must be well-versed in the challenges of supporting them. In all my years of working with pet parents and their dogs, I’ve seen the toll it takes on the families that love them. Yet, emotional dogs can live their best lives with the proper knowledge and support.
Typical behavioral cases may include
- Generalized fear of people, other dogs, grooming, etc.
- Stranger fear or fear/ aggression,
- Separation anxiety/distress,
- Phobias such as noise phobias,
- Compulsive behaviors such as spinning, chasing shadows, and the like
Ready to get some help?
Additional Support for Emotionally Sensitive Dogs
Private behavior modification and training is often most effective when paired with continued learning and support. Many of my private training clients benefit from participating in the Emotional Dog Support and Learning Community, where we expand on concepts, build confidence, and support both dog and human through the process.