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Dogs + Behavior & Training

  • Urine marking is normal in both male and female dogs and can even occur in dogs who are spayed or neutered. The underlying cause for urine marking should be determined so an appropriate treatment plan can be implemented. Management, prevention, and supervision are important for a good outcome.

  • Dogs often steal objects to play with them or to get someone to chase them. Stealing thus becomes rewarding to the dog. Supervision to prevent stealing is the best strategy. It is important to refrain from chasing your dog to retrieve stolen goods. Dogs can be trained to give back stolen items.

  • Urination during greetings is common in some dogs, particularly puppies and socially inexperienced dogs. This article explains why it happens and outlines training methods to reduce excitement and anxiety during interactions with people. Guidance is also provided for appropriate greetings and recognizing when veterinary assessment may be needed.

  • When a behavior is harmless, it is probably normal. When a behavior is destructive, disruptive, or places people or other pets at risk, it is not normal. Addressing the problems early, before they become ingrained, is the best hope for avoiding future problems.

  • Chewing is a normal behavior for puppies and adult dogs, but it can be unsafe when non-food items are ingested. Supervision combined with ample access to appropriate, appealing chew toys can prevent and reduce inappropriate chewing. In some cases, destructive chewing is abnormal and may reflect an underlying physical or behavioral illness. Consult your veterinarian if you are concerned.

  • Dogs dig for a variety of reasons. It may be done to accomplish a goal that, to a dog, is reasonable, but it can also be a sign of an underlying behavior disorder. This handout describes the most common causes of destructive digging and methods that can be used to manage it.

  • Foxhounds have been bred for centuries to live as a pack in the kennel, with few living as house dogs. But if you raise one in the home, you're in for a pleasant surprise. They are easy-going, calm, and gentle; good with children, other dogs, and other pets.

  • The English Setter is said to be one of the sweetest-tempered, most well-mannered dogs to grace the planet. For those who seek an exemplary canine companion rather than a precise champion in the obedience ring, this dog is a winner.

  • Merry, bright, and animated, but also docile, sweet, and calm, English Toy Spaniels make excellent lap dogs and indoor family pets, especially for seniors and families with someone home most of the day.

  • Enriching a pet's environment with food toys and puzzles at mealtimes can encourage mental stimulation and fulfill the need to forage, effectively increasing daily movement in inactive pets.