Mail Carrier Arrives, Dog Goes Postal
Problem: Your dog barks madly whenever the doorbell rings (yes, the stuff of delivery-person legend).
Why It Happens: “Many breeds bark to signal someone approaching the family pack,” says animal behaviorist Mary Burch. Because barking seems to banish intruders, your dog will want to keep it up. “The action reinforces the behavior,” says pet-adoption director Stephanie Shain. “The dog barks, the delivery person leaves, and the dog thinks, I’ve done my job!”
What to Do: Desensitize McGruff to the doorbell by training him with these steps from dog trainer Jeff Millman. First, have a friend or a family member approach the door and scratch it softly enough that the sound does not elicit barking. Praise the dog and give him a treat. Work up to tapping the door, then knocking, and finally ringing the bell. “Soon the dog will start sniffing for treats whenever there’s a noise at the door,” says Millman. “Add verbal praise before the treat and eventually his reward will be your saying ‘Good boy!’ and you won’t have to use treats.” But remember — it takes time to teach an old dog…you know.
Seeing Is Relieving
Problem: You love your pooch as much as he loves you. But, unlike him, you don’t wet yourself when you see each other at the end of the day.
Why It Happens: “There may be a medical reason. Have the dog evaluated for urinary-tract problems,” says veterinarian Ann E. Hohenhaus. It may be a behavioral issue known as submissive urination. “The dog is saying, ‘I mean you no harm,’” explains Millman. “It’s common in puppies and often goes away on its own. But any behavior that is rehearsed can become a habit.”
What to Do: Avoid rushing to Rover when you come home. “Give your dog time to calm down, managing him in a crate or behind a baby gate,” says Millman. “When you approach, do it in a low-key way, with your body turned, so you’re not confrontational. Kneel and avoid eye contact.” Then take your dog outside to relieve himself.
Scratching the Hand That Feeds Her
Problem: Your cat claws at the Good Samaritan who has agreed to feed her while you’re out of town.
Why It Happens: “Most cats will not attack unless provoked,” says veterinarian Patti Iampietro. So your cat, cranky because you had the audacity to leave, is probably swatting at its overly solicitous caretaker.
What to Do: “Slowly introduce the pet to the visitor so the cat will feel more comfortable with her at vacation time,” says cat-shelter founder Kathy Kwieran. “The caretaker shouldn’t pet or pick up the cat but should let the cat approach her.”
