How to Evaluate a Problem

Evaluating a problem is all about taking a decision in relation to said problem. There exists a pre-established order of steps to take to reach that goal. Before being able to evaluate a problem, tools for measurement of the problem and its impact are required.

The procedure reads as follows:

  • Identifying the problem from a series of observations of the dog's behavior.
  • Describing the problem, using the data noted on the detailed nature of the problem.
  • Applying a re-education technique to counter the effects of the problem.
  • Analyzing the results of the intervention retained to solve the problem.
  • Comparing the chosen procedure with other possibilities for solutions.

Before proceeding to the identification of the cause, we suggest that you consult a veterinarian so as to determine if the cause originates from a medical problem. There exist many causes for each of the problems discussed here. For cases of aggression, fear, cleanliness problems and destruction, it is highly recommended that a professional be consulted.

It is important to remember that we must not limit ourselves to dealing with the symptoms only, but to go back to the source of the problem. For example, a person has a headache and takes something to get rid of it. However, the person doesn't take the time to find out the cause of the headache. Therefore, there is a good chance that the headaches will recur, until the behavior or situation which causes the headache is remedied. The same principle applies to animal behavior.

To know about the problem is part of the solution. This manual will assist you in your decision-making for the problems you will likely encounter, that is, if you can solve the problem yourself, or if you will require the assistance of a professional.

Each behavior problem discussed in this manual has its own cause. The information it contains will help you to determine the underlying cause of the problem. Before applying a given solution to a problem, ask yourself the following questions:

  • How would you describe the problem?
  • To what factor can the problem be attributed to?
  • When does the problem occur?
  • What is the duration and the intensity of the problem?
  • Who is there when the problem occurs?
  • Which solution(s) have you tried?
  • Do you think the problem could be related to the animal's health?

The nature of the information gathered will allow you to determine if you will deal with the problem yourself or if you will refer yourself to a professional. Should you decide to tackle the problem yourself, it would be nevertheless wise to talk to an expert. The procedure we offer aims at giving you a general and graduated approach related to each type of problem encountered, without necessarily going into detail. This guide is a reference tool which shows you various ways of working. Each dog needs a custom-made working procedure, and Multivet´s approach is adaptable to any dog. Some problems can be solved just by dealing with apparent symptoms, but others, such as a fearful and anxious dog, will necessitate going back to the root of the cause which triggered the behavior. It behaves you to find the information related to the category of problem which interests you.

Remote Controlled Dog Trainer Using Spray Commander: Preliminary Remarks Programming the Remote Control Dog Training The dog's place within the family Socialization Causes for Dog Disobedience Rules and Notions of Behavior Indicators for Good and Bad Behavior Two Categories for Positive Reinforcement (Primary, Secondary) The "SOUND" Option on Spray Commander When to stop using the sound How to Reward a Dog When to use the Citronella Spray The Warning Feature on Spray Commander How to Use Correction Wisely Play During and After Training Session Never Let the Dog Win Stress and Your Dog The Ten Basic Commands Sequence Chart 1: Primary Training Phase Sequence Chart 2: Obedience Training How to Begin Obedience Training Obedience Training "SIT' when the dog is standing "DOWN" when the dog is seated "SIT" when the dog is lying down "STAND" 1 when the dog is seated "STAND" 2 when the dog is lying down "DOWN" when the dog is standing Consolidation Exercises Practice the commands from a distance Positive Association "STAY" Command The "STAY" command from a distance "HEEL" Command How to obtain desired results with a leash When the dog constantly tugs at the leash The Gentle Leader Collar for Dogs "DON’T TOUCH" Command Biting Dog Games "STOP" Command Spray Commander: A Short-Term Training Tool Re-Educating Your Dog Dealing with Unacceptable Behavior How to Evaluate a Problem Counter-conditioning and systematic desensitization 2. Systematic desensitization 3. Immersion Problems with Soiling Possible causes for soiling Fears and phobias Urinating by submission or excitement How to solve the problem The importance of a cage in education for soiling Should you catch your dog in the act Underlying reasons most frequent in dealing with soiling problems: The pack leader controls the food Examples of dominant behavior How lo introduce your dog to strangers Dog Destruction Possible causes for destruction Games and investigating the environment The dog that demands attention How to prevent destruction Before leaving the house Make sure that the dog gets enough exercise How to Prevent Chasing or Running Away Typical causes for running away or chasing Game investigation social contact Procedure to counter chasing The dog that Jumps and Grabs at People Picking up or Stealing Objects How to Stop Your Dog from Stealing Coprophagia - The dog that eats his stools The Agitated, Excitable Dog The Dog Cries to Obtain Attention or Food Separation anxiety Treating Separation Anxiety Separation Anxiety Steps 4-5 Separation Anxiety Steps 6-8 Conclusion regarding Separation Anxiety Fear of men The difference between a fearful dog and a dominant aggressive dog Fear of certain people or other dogs How the Dog reacts to Change Automobile Rides Dog Tricks and Games The search for a person or an object : "Bring to", "Bring the in" "SNIFF / FETCH" Game "JUMP" Game "ROLL OVER" Trick "GIVE YOUR PAW" "THERE'S A BISCUIT ON YOUR NOSE!" How to establish limits with Spray Barrier How to prevent the dog from leaving his territory and running away Excessive barking How are undesirable behaviors reinforced? Feline Problems Feline vocalisation Inappropriate Elimination Behavior Inappropriate Spraying in Cats Aggression among Cats How to select a good educator if you need help Dog Behavior Glossary

 

 

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