With Hurricane Helene displacing families and their pets, Florida shelters will see an influx of rescue dogs. Many of these dogs, while grateful for their second chance at a loving home, may come with behavioral challenges rooted in trauma, neglect, or simply a lack of training. As a compassionate pet owner, it’s essential to recognize these behaviors and work patiently to help your rescue dog adjust to their new environment. In this post, we’ll explore the most common behavioral issues in rescue dogs and how to fix them using positive reinforcement training techniques.
Common Behavioral Challenges in Rescue Dogs
Fear and Anxiety
Rescue dogs, especially those who have been through traumatic experiences, often exhibit fear or anxiety. This can manifest as:
- Trembling or hiding
- Refusal to eat or play
- Fear of loud noises (such as thunderstorms or fireworks, which are common in Florida)
- Reluctance to approach new people or other animals
Aggression
Some rescue dogs display aggressive behaviors due to fear, lack of socialization, or past mistreatment. This aggression can be directed towards people, other dogs, or even objects. Behaviors may include:
- Growling or snapping
- Barking excessively
- Lunging at other dogs or people during walks
Separation Anxiety
Many rescue dogs form deep bonds with their new owners but struggle with separation anxiety when left alone. Symptoms may include:
- Excessive barking or howling when alone
- Destructive behaviors (chewing furniture, scratching doors)
- Accidents in the house when left unattended
House Training Issues
Dogs from rescue shelters may not have been properly house trained. Accidents in the house, marking territory, or a lack of understanding of where to go potty are common in new rescues.
Leash Reactivity
Some rescue dogs haven’t been trained to walk on a leash properly and may pull, lunge, or bark at passing dogs, people, or cars. This can make walks stressful for both the dog and the owner.
The good news is that with patience, and consistency most rescue dogs can overcome their behavioral challenges.
Addressing Behavioral Issues
Fear and Anxiety: Gradual Exposure and Comfort
- Create a Safe Space: Provide your dog with a comfortable, quiet space they can retreat to when feeling anxious. Use blankets, toys, and calming music to help them feel secure.
- Gradual Exposure: Slowly expose your dog to new environments, people, and noises. Start with low-stress situations, and gradually increase exposure. For example, if your dog is afraid of thunderstorms, play a recording of a storm at a low volume while offering treats and praise.
- Reward Calm Behavior: Use positive reinforcement when your dog remains calm in a stressful situation. For example, if they stay relaxed during a car ride or when meeting a new person, reward them with treats and verbal praise.
Aggression: Desensitization and Counterconditioning
- Identify Triggers: Observe what triggers your dog’s aggression. Is it strangers, other dogs, or specific objects? Understanding the trigger is the first step to addressing aggression.
- Desensitization: Gradually expose your dog to the trigger in a controlled setting. Start at a distance where your dog remains calm, and gradually decrease the distance over time. Reward calm behavior with treats and praise.
- Counterconditioning: Change your dog’s emotional response to the trigger. For example, if your dog growls at other dogs, start by rewarding them with treats when they see another dog at a distance, helping them associate the presence of other dogs with positive experiences.
Separation Anxiety: Building Independence
- Short Absences: Start by leaving your dog alone for short periods of time (just a few minutes) and gradually increase the duration as they become more comfortable. Always leave behind a toy or treat to keep them engaged while you’re gone.
- Calm Departures and Returns: Don’t make a big fuss when leaving or returning home. Calmly say goodbye and hello to avoid creating a sense of anxiety around your comings and goings.
- Create a Positive Association: Leave your dog with a puzzle toy or long-lasting chew when you leave to help them associate your absence with something enjoyable.
House Training: Establishing a Routine
- Consistent Schedule: Establish a consistent feeding and bathroom schedule. Take your dog outside at regular intervals (after meals, naps, and playtime) and use the same spot for bathroom breaks.
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog immediately when they go potty outside with treats and praise. If an accident happens indoors, clean it up without scolding your dog, as this can create confusion and fear.
- Crate Training: Use a crate as a safe space to encourage house training. Most dogs won’t soil their sleeping area, so crate training can help them learn to hold it until they’re outside.
Leash Reactivity: Loose Leash Walking
- Start Indoors: Begin leash training indoors or in a calm, quiet area. Reward your dog for walking by your side with treats and praise.
- Practice Attention Commands: Teach your dog to focus on you during walks using commands like “watch me” or “look.” Reward them when they give you attention rather than pulling or reacting to distractions.
- Gradual Exposure to Distractions: Once your dog is comfortable on the leash indoors, slowly introduce outdoor walks with minimal distractions. Gradually work up to busier areas as your dog improves.