Understanding Behavior

...and what drives it

What's really behind my dog's behavior?

Your dog's actions are like the tip of an iceberg, showing just a small part of what's really going on. Many things drive your dog's behavior, including their genes, early experiences, and how they've learned to behave over time. Your home environment, daily routines, and interactions with other pets and people also play a big role. Your dog's health is important too—it can affect how they act and feel. By understanding these factors, we can work together to improve your dog's behavior, overall well-being, and restore harmony in your home.

Factors That Influence Behavior

Genetics

This includes traits inherited from their parents, temperament, and predisposition to certain behaviors.

Early socialization

Experiences during puppyhood can shape how they interact with people, animals, and environments.

Reinforcement

The way interact with and even how you train teaches them what is acceptable and what is not.

Environment

Home environment, outside locations, & interactions with other pets/people can all impact your dog's behavior.

Health

Health problems & pain can lead to changes in mood, sensitivity to stimuli, reactiveness, & activity levels.

Nutrition

Proper nutrition is essential for your dog's overall health, and can affect their behavior and energy levels.

Routines

Inconsistent routines & communication can lead to confusion and stress, resulting in anxious or erratic behavior.

Enrichment

Regular exercise and mental enrichment are important for keeping your dog physically healthy and mentally stimulated.

Age / Life Stage

Your dog's behavior may change as they age, with puppies, adults, and seniors each having different needs and behaviors.

Past Experience

Previous experiences, including positive or negative interactions, can have a lasting impact on your dog's behavior & emotional state.

Relationships

Interactions with you, other humans, and other animals can impact your dog's behavior and emotional well-being.

Stress

When dogs struggle to cope with challenging situations, their stress levels can rise, leading to changes in behavior.

Common Behavior Challenges

Dogs do what comes naturally, and they repeat the behaviors that work. Unfortunately, some of these behaviors can be a huge nuisance in the human world and can even pose unintended risks.

Jumping

Barking

Begging

Nipping / Mouthing

Chewing / Destruction

Digging

Door Dashing

Pulling

Potty Accidents

Counter Surfing

Resource Guarding

I can help!

We address these behaviors by:

  • Addressing the source of reinforcement

  • Implementing management to prevent unwanted behaviors

  • Teaching alternative, more acceptable behaviors your dog can do to get what they need

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Contact Us:

💬 TEXT: (408) 882-1976

In-Person Service Counties:

Santa Clara, San Mateo, Alameda

We are located in:

Gilroy, CA

DISCLAIMER: Although behavior may be modified, the dog is never “cured”. A dog’s behavior is ultimately the responsibility of the owner. As a result of the changeability inherent in all behavior, I cannot offer a guarantee of an animal's future behavior.

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