Aggression is probably the most common behavioral problem reported to me in dogs.  It can be quite terrifying to most people to see their beloved pet turn into an out-of-control “mad dog”.  There are many types of aggression (dominance-related, fear-related, territorial aggression, maternal aggression, etc.) and the most important thing is figuring out the root cause.  Whether people or intraspecies aggression (dog-on-dog), there are steps to manage and control this in order to create a well-balanced dog.

Separation Anxiety or Fear-Based Problems:                              

 The truth is we expect a lot from our dogs that go against centuries of primal instinct.  Dogs are pack-oriented creatures and separation of the pack disrupts their natural state-of-being.  Being in a crowded shopping mall with screaming children, linoleum floors, and busy honking car-traffic certainly goes against the natural wilderness.  Yet, we want our dog calm and collected in a variety of situations.  Separation anxiety or fear-based problems can lead to things like destructive behavior, excessive barking, or house soiling, but it can also quickly escalate into more serious problems.  It is important to identify the irrational associations and provide treatment, rather than punishment.

 
Obsessive Compulsive:                                                                   

Though obsessive behaviors in dogs can be pathological and must be treated with medication, more often it is an indication of the dog not receiving its need s to be well-balanced.  Some dogs are obsessed with certain toys, certain foods, even their own tail!  Some dogs obsessively lick, or run incessant circles and spins.  Again, the important thing is recognizing the sign and source of a problem and obtaining the right tools and knowledge to fix and prevent the behavior.