Behavior Training
The goal of behavior modification is to teach the dog a better behavior to replace the undesirable behavior so families will love and enjoy their dogs for as many years as possible. Animal behaviorists like puppies to stay with their original owners, so they strive to correct problem behavior by giving each dog a better behavior to perform instead.
Owners with dogs that are in need of behavior modification will now have the resources to change their dogs’ behavior from undesirable behaviors to pleasing behaviors with a structured program suited for their individual dog’s needs. The first positive step an owner can take is to decide which behaviors they would like their dog to do rather than incessantly complain about the undesirable behaviors their dog is doing.
Mary Kay’s philosophy regarding Behavior modification focuses on positive reinforcement. All behavior modification programs at SmartyPaws include the use of treats, toys and even clickers to motivate each dog to perform a desired behavior. Shock collars are never used at SmartyPaws. Appropriate training tools are used for each case -- from housetraining to fear aggression to chewing, etc.
Because of Mary Kay’s Veterinary Technician education with a focus in Behavior, she is able to work with your veterinarian in the instance that your dog’s behavior problem is caused by an underlying medical problem. Her pursuit of required continuing education in this field keeps her current with the latest modification techniques as well as pharmacological advances currently used in the clinical veterinary behavior setting. She works closely with several local veterinarians, in a team effort, to develop protocols for those dogs that may benefit from medications along with their behavior modification.
Each Behavior Modification program is based on the particular needs of the family and their dog. Written instructions are provided, to compliment what is taught in each session. Some tests by your veterinarian may be needed before beginning a program. Nutritional counseling is also provided, as diet is becoming more of an issue in some behavior problems. All information regarding a family’s behavior modification is confidential and only to include the family Veterinarian as needed.