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Q:
We have a 5 year old Pembroke Welsh Corgi that has a few issues. He's obedient, most of the time, though he's had no "formal training", He also has some anxiety issues when he's left alone. ( circle barks, whines, becomes destructive)
People that come to our home: mailman, UPS etc, this is where he becomes this little dog, with a great big attitude and will bark and chase them away !
This is our biggest concern as we are relocating out of state next month and I do not want him to terrorize our new neighbors, kids,mailman or other pets.
What's the best way we can help him adjust to this move as he already "thinks" he's the boss here, and we don't want him doing it there.
I love him to pieces and don't want to get rid of him. Please help.
A:
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi are highly intelligent, fun loving,devoted and headstrong canines. These dogs were originally breed for cattle and geese herding and require moderate exercise. The anxiety issues that you describe could be derived from boredom, stress and lack of structure.The barking and chasing of people is one of his natural instincts ( herding ) keeping everyone where he wants and doesn't want them. Without seeing him in action though it is difficult to determine as he could also be resource guarding you and your home. Some things that you could do BEFORE your move is to start to create a more stable, secure environment for the dog.
1. Give the dog a well defined set of rules and boundaries and stick to them. For example : Rules and boundaries would include showing the dog that you are the leader under ALL circumstances. EVERYTHING is to be done on your terms ONLY ( affection,playtime,even mealtime) Your dog cannot dictate to you when to do something, or how it is to be done. Cross the lines or boundaries and start telling the leader what to do, now there will be disciplinary and consequential action taken (depending on the severity of the situation at hand )
2. Give stability in the pack structure - By letting your dog know exactly where his place is and what his job is will give him a sense of purpose and
stress /anxiety relief. Show him that when people come to the door, that YOU are in front of him taking control of the situation. Do not pacify your dogs whining or barking, just simply take charge. Also don't yell at your dog. In this case, he will think that you are joining in his barking and escalate. Your actions will speak much louder than words.Use the leash to hold him behind you and advise your guests to make no eye contact or acknowledgement of his presence. This one takes time, but can be done with patience and practice until it becomes second nature.
3. Remember lack of structure creates insecurities. If you dog thinks he's the boss because no one told him otherwise, he will continue to do so. Dogs are not natural born leaders.They try to take this role on themselves, but make many mistakes along the way. This creates anxieties ( circle barks, whines , destructive behavior )
4. Remember to remain calm, confident and in control at all times. Insecurities creates instabilities. When your dog attempts to compensate these instabilities this is what creates most behavioral problems.
All leadership skills should follow you wherever you go. Whether you are moving, vacationing or just visiting maintain the same rules and stability YOU first ,and your dog will follow with no issues. It will take some time to adjust to his new home,as he may be somewhat fearful of his new surroundings but as long as you treat the move as if it were " No big deal " and are not nervous, fearful or anxious he will mirror your calm confident mannerisms.
Start searching for a trainer now in the area where you are relocating to assist you with some of his behavior issues as well as maybe applying some " formal training" to help secure the pack structure. Allow the dog to settle in for a week or two and become comfortable. Then have the dog temperament tested.
Keep a close eye on your dog when you do make your move. Some signs that your dog may be stressed will show in their eyes,( squinting, avoidance, staring ), face/ears,
mouth (panting,snarling, excessive drooling) posture: ( stiff, trembling, digging, chewing )and vocally ( barking, whining, growling )
Should this occur, try redirecting your dogs behavior into something more positive, like play. Soon, your dog will start feeling safe, secure, stable and confident in his new surroundings.
As always, seek the advice of a professional before attempting any technique on your pet as this information is generalized, not temperament specific.
This article was published February 8,2009 on page 3 of the Sunday Sentinel
