It is not always easy to know how to treat adopted dogs. Sometimes, some adopted dogs do not behave as they should as a result of poor training in the past best family pets. Lack of socialization, behavior based on punishment or unresolved fears are some of the most common causes.
Below we explain the most common behavioral problems and how you will have to act. Of course, remember that the most appropriate thing to do will be to contact a professional, be it a canine educator, trainer or an ethologist. Always look for a professional who works through positive reinforcement:
- Aggressive adopted dog: contrary to what many believe, aggression is not a particularly complicated problem to treat. They are generally related to the use of punishment methods or a lack of socialization during puppyhood. This process should be handled by an experienced professional, since someone without experience can worsen the condition by trying to treat it with inappropriate methods. Discover tips to keep in mind when dealing with an aggressive dog .
- Fearful adopted dog: fear, depending on the level, can be difficult to deal with. The most important thing will be to offer the animal space and never force it to interact with anyone it does not want to (whether objects, people or pets). Little by little and always with your supervision, your dog will begin to open up to the world, but if not, it is best to also go to a professional. Take special caution with fearful dogs and never leave them off leash, since they tend to run away and get lost.
- Dog that urinates or defecates at home: if your dog relieves itself at home, don’t worry, you are not the first to go through this situation. We know that it is unpleasant and that sometimes it can cause discomfort, but you must understand that your new friend probably does not know how to do it. You will have to teach him as if he were a puppy. Walk him regularly to avoid urination at home and don’t forget to praise him on the street every time he urinates, this way he will remember what he should do. It is always more effective to praise the animal than to scold it, remember that. This process takes time but if you are willing you will achieve it faster than you think. Discover how to teach a puppy to urinate in the street or how to teach an adult dog to urinate outside.
- Crying, howling and other related signs: If you notice that he or she is crying in your presence, you will simply need to be patient. Maybe he misses his siblings, his cage mate, or the volunteers. Try offering him treats and playing with him to gain his trust and distract him. Little by little you will notice that he stops doing it. It is a common behavior and the use of toys and your attention are essential.
Dog not eating: If your dog is not eating or drinking water, take him to the vet immediately to rule out a health problem. Sometimes it is due to the anxiety and sadness they suffer or from being terribly scared. Try offering pate, treats, or any type of appetizing food.
The dog cries, urinates or destroys when you are not at home : the dreaded separation anxiety can affect many adopted dogs. It can happen in different ways: incessant barking when you leave, crying, broken objects… Some long-lasting toys, such as the kong, can help you distract him for a while. These types of behavioral problems are complicated to treat and generally require the visit of a specialist.