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Samoyed Behavior Problems
While Samoyeds are great dogs to have, they are known to have a few behavioral problems. Before you get a Samoyed, there are several things that we should warn you about, and one of them is their behavior issues. Samoyeds need a lot of good training to become easier to handle. Proper training by a professional will do good, especially if it is your first time owning a Samoyed. These behavior problems can be easily fixed if you can spot them early.
For all Samoyed owners out there, you know how temperamental these dogs can be. While it may be difficult to predict the attitude and behaviour that your Samoyed might have, it is safe to say that proper training will be necessary since all Samoyeds are pretty stubborn and energetic dogs. While training will teach your Samoyed how to behave, it may not address the bigger issues your Samoyed may have. Read below to get to know more about the Samoyed behavioral issues and how to overcome them.
How do you know if your Samoyed has behavior problems?
While a behavior problem can mean different things, it is important to identify them as early as possible. The first thing you should know about a Samoyed is that they are very vocal. They will bark at the slightest of things, but it is the duty of the owner to control their barking. Vocalizing does not only mean barking but whining, howling, crying, etc. If your Samoyed begins to vocalize unnecessarily, the first thing you should do is take them to a vet. It is important to rule out any health-related problems. Many dog owners share stories about their Samoyeds starting to bark or howl loudly trying to manipulate and get something done. If they do not listen to your commands and you feel you cannot control their behavior anymore, this is the time to see a dog behaviorist.
Another sign that your Samoyed dog has a behavior problem is aggression. Aggression can be towards people or other animals. Aggression is something that should be controlled in dogs since it can lead to destruction. While a little aggression is normal especially if they sense danger, however, if your Samoyed is aggressive to everything and anything then it is a problem. If your Samoyed seems to be more aggressive, it is better to see a dog behaviourist.
Scavenging is also another behavior problem in Samoyed dogs. If you notice your Samoyed start digging up your carpet or your garden, it is usually due to anxiety. You will need a behavior expert to help your Samoyed overcome their anxiety and help take their scavenging habits under control.
Biting and chewing on furniture or other household items is another behavior problem. Most Samoyeds do this when they feel anxious, especially if they are left alone for too long. They are very social animals and always want to be a part of family activities. Samoyeds are very susceptible to separation anxiety so keep this in mind if you are planning to get a Samoyed.
Who is a dog behaviorist?
A dog behaviorist is a professional that works with a dog to change and modify its behavior and/or habits. Basically, it is a behavior trainer who teaches your dog to perform commands. They will teach your Sammy to be obedient. A dog behaviorist is someone who understands why a dog is behaving a certain way. The work of a dog behaviorist is similar to a therapist. They help and work on your dog’s behavior in different ways.
A dog trainer and dog behavior therapist are two different professions requiring different certifications. Finding a good dog behavior expert is important if you want to help your dog and address any behavior issue. Make sure you look into their degrees and certifications before you hire one. It is up to the owners to look into dog behaviorist background to find out if they are capable of addressing your dog’s behavior issues.
A canine behaviorist plays a very important role in finding a way to prevent problem dog behavior. Instead of forcing your dog to behave a certain way, they will be able to understand why your Samoyed dog is not behaving the right way. Professional dog behavior therapist develops a technique that helps your dog fix the problem instead of just correcting existing bad habits.
What does a dog behaviorist do?
A dog behavior expert determines whether your dog has any behavior issues as well as the cause of these issues. They will first come for an evaluation of your Samoyed dog which will last around an hour or two, depending on your dog. After this, a dog behaviorist will have to determine what problems or challenges your dog is going through. Once they do that, they will begin sessions whereby they will help your dog overcome all these challenges through positive reinforcement.
How much does a dog behaviorist cost?
A dog behavior expert is like any other freelancer out there, they charge their own rate. The rate of a dog behaviorist depends on their experience. The usual rate for an evaluation is $35 -$50(USD) depending on the evaluation duration. An hour of a training session with a dog behaviorist costs around $25(USD). If it is a training session to address a puppy behavior issue, it usually lasts no more than 15-20 min so the price would be lower.
Behavioral therapy for Samoyed dogs
There are a lot of pet owners that say their Samoyed has a behavioral problem. Sometimes, regular training can fix these problems. If it does not, a professional behavioral expert needs to be brought in to examine your pet’s problem. Your Samoyed will need dog behavioral therapy if they are in danger of either hurting themselves or those around them. Something as small as chasing their tail could be due to an underlying problem that should be fixed.
For example, if your Samoyed gets extremely scared and anxious if you leave them alone in a room, this may be a sign of something serious. If you spot character traits and situations like these, try this guide on how to deal with Samoyed separation anxiety. If it does not help, then it is best to resort to dog behaviour therapy. Samoyeds especially are very emotional dogs and need a little more attention.
Animal behavior school and programs
If you want to help your Sammy and decided to take an animal behavior program, there are certain animal behavior schools with programs that you can enroll in. As mentioned above, there are no laws governing animal behavior experts. However, there are certain certifications needed to call yourself a dog behavior therapist. After getting the required degree from any accredited animal behavior school, you have to get the ACAAB (Associate Applied Animal Behaviour) or the CAAB (Certified Applied Animal Behaviourist) to become a certified animal behaviorist. This certificate is given by the Animal Behaviour Society. After you have attained this certificate, you can conduct your own behavior training for any animal you wish to.
Conclusion
While behavior problems are common in dogs, it is up to the owners to identify and fix them. All behavioral problems should be fixed since they may cause harm to your dog and your family. If you notice any behavior problem, it is best to first contact your vet. After ruling out any health complications, you can approach a dog behavior expert.
Related Questions:
What are some of the best books on dog behavior?
If you are someone who is looking into understanding your Samoyed dog better, then there are many books you could read. According to Veterinary Practice News, here are the top five books on animal behavior:
1. Low-Stress Handling Restraint and Behavior Modification of Dogs & Cats by Sophia Yin.
2. Manual of Clinical Behaviour Medicine for Dogs and Cats by Karen Overall.
3. Don’t Shoot the Dog: The New Art of Teaching and Training by Karen Pryor.
4. Canine Body Language: A Photographic Guide Interpreting the Native Language of the Domestic Dog by Branda Aloff.
5. The Other End of the Leash: Why We Do What We Do Around Dogs by Dr. Patricia B McConnell.
What could be the cause of my Samoyed’s destructive behavior?
A Samoyed is one of the dogs that is known to have destructive behavior. They might either bite and chew on furniture or start barking incessantly. These dogs were bred to be human companions and need humans to survive. The most common reason behind Samoyed’s destructive behavior is either because they are anxious or they are bored. You can see both these emotions if your Samoyed is left alone for too long.
Samoyeds can behave destructively if they do not get enough exercise and have pent-up energy that they need to use up. To eliminate these behavior issues, make sure your Samoyed gets enough exercise. In this case, exercise means a tiring workout not just a stroll down the park. Also, do not leave your Samoyed alone for too long. Try to check in on them every 2-3 hours to make them feel less alone. If this does not work then it is best to have them examined by a professional.
