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Canine Behavior/dog chases shadows

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Expert: Alan J Turner, SATS LL1 - 3/30/2008


Question
My friends 7 yr. old dog from a breeder is constantly looking down and chasing shadows, even in the evening.During the day , much of her time is spent focusing on a sun shadow. She also licks the clean wooden floor from wall to wall. This dog is only paper trained. Help.I feel sorry for this dog.

Answer
Dear Wendy,
Thanks for the question. It's impossible for me to offer specific instructions without knowing more about the situation. Solutions for these types of behaviors involve redirecting the dog to perform alternate behaviors and increased exercise and training. I can say that using corrections will probably not be helpful. Dogs with these types of compulsive behaviors need routines and structure. Ask your friend if you can take the dog for a walk each day, hold daily training sessions or just play fetch. Thanks for writing.

Alan J Turner

http://howsbentley.com

Canine Behavior

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Alan J Turner, SATS LL1

Expertise

Puppy questions about House Training, Crate Training, Play-biting? Please visit my website. Site address is http://www.howsbentley.com.

I will answer all questions about canine behavior and training, training methods and equipment. Be ready to provide dog's name, age, sex, breed and how long you have owned the dog. In addition, it'd be great for me to know how long the problem has been occurring, what you have tried to solve the problem(s) and what were the results.

The more information you provide me - the better equipped I will be to offer sound, helpful advice! Thank you.

Experience

13 years as a trainer, the most recent 6 years as a canine behavior counselor specializing in abnormal behavior modification (i.e. fear, aggression, et cetera).

Organizations
Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT)

CredentialsAttend workshops and seminars for professional trainers / counselors regularly
Member: Association of Pet Dog Trainers
Certified Syn Alia Training Systems, Lay Level 1 Trainer

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