Behavior Modification

704-980-9678

Lake Norman Natural Dog Training

Behavior Modification is a service we offer to clients with dogs that have unacceptable behaviors. Many of these 'unacceptable' behaviors are absolutely normal dog behaviors. When the term 'behavior modification' is used we generally are referring to changing or eliminating unwanted or problem behaviors such as jumping, chewing, barking, etc.

What is the difference between 'Training' and 'Behavior Modification'? In the purest terms, 'training' is used to mean obedience training - teaching the dog to DO something ( behavior action) in response to a cue (command.) An example is command based training that teaches, sit, down, stay and the like. Behavior modification changes the way a dog thinks, feels and behaves in order to change an unwanted behavior. We effectively change the dog's emotional response to a stimuli.

There are several steps in Behavior Modification. Steps one and two are the same regardless of the behavior needing to be changed. The first step is to have the dog respect the owner, or view the owner in a position of leadership. (This is not to be confused with being 'Alpha.') The second step is to elicit a form or relaxation from the dog - we like to use focus commands such as "watch me" or "settle." The remaining steps in Behavior Modification are then tailored to the specific nature of the problem.

Below are some examples of when we would recommend Behavior Modification:

House Soiling	Leash Reactivity	Nuisance Barking	Counter Surfing
Intra Dog Aggression	Jumping	Phobias (Fears)	Food Aggression

We handle almost all Behavior Modification Requests. While some solutions may take less time that others, they all require a great deal of commitment on the owners part, as well as a healthy dose of patience. If you think your dog needs Behavior Modification Intervention, please give us a call. Costs vary depending on the nature and severity of the problem. Some behavior modification can be done in the context of our training packages. We work closely with your veterinarian to solve your dog's behavioral issues.

Please contact us for more information on our Behavior Modification programs.