When your dog, whether it’s a German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix or any other kind of breed, is not behaving like you want them to, you may think that it’s time to call in a professional. Of course, not all dog problems require the help of a behaviorist, but there are some that do. Let’s dive into this topic a bit deeper.

What Does a Behaviorist Do?

First off, let’s explore what a dog behaviorist does, because there are some dog-related issues that can be solved with a trainer. Things like beginning at the table or jumping on guests can easily be solved by hiring a trainer. Behaviorists, however, deal with more serious issues. A dog behaviorist is someone who works to manage, change and keep behavior issues from happening. They are trained in what they do, and use tools that are backed up by plenty of research and science.

With them, you’ll be able to learn what causes the unwanted behavior, after which you’ll get a plan to stop it from happening. Finally, you’ll also get help with issues that may arise along the way.

Aggression

Aggression is a serious matter, and it can reveal itself in many different ways. It can be excessive barking, being over-protective of toys, food, bed or anything else or growling or snapping when someone comes close to them while they’re eating. Other examples are snapping or growling when someone pets, grooms or picks them up, escaping from home and roaming alone for long periods of times, or chasing or attacking small animals or moving objects.

There are many possible causes for aggression, including a lack of socialization with other animals, too much physical punishment, a history of being attacked by other aggressive animals, not being disciplined or not having boundaries or being isolated from contacts with humans. Another reason could be that they were taunted or harassed frequently by children or adults.

Regardless of what the specific reason is, a dog behaviorist is going to be able to identify it, and show you how to correct your dog’s aggression before it escalates.

Phobias

Like humans, dogs too can develop certain phobias, or instances when they’re terrified of a specific situation, person or object. These phobias can make life incredibly unpleasant for both humans and their canine friends. Examples of phobia-sources include thunder, fireworks, being left alone, riding in the car, the vet, stairs, men, strangers, children, or various objects like the vacuum. The phobia may express itself in different ways, such as trembling, drooling, cowering, barking or even aggression.

There is no shortage of causes when it comes to this issue. It could be because the pup was not socialized early on, or because he or she had a negative experience in the past. In some cases, it could simply be due to genetics. Regardless, with the help of a dog behaviorist, you’ll be able to help your dog be phobia-free, and live a happy life.

Reactivity

Reactivity refers to your dog reacting to objects, people or other dogs. Some behaviors, such as barking, growling and lunging may appear as aggression, when in fact, they aren’t. It could simply be that the dog is stressed, and is acting the way they are because they’re afraid. Of course, this isn’t the only possible reason, as it could simply be that the canine is not at all afraid and has no intention of attacking. Other examples of reactivity include pulling when on leash, twirling, flopping or flipping, or bouncing.

If the reactivity is fear-driven, the dog will likely go through all stages of warning, from having their weight forward and their hackles raised, to staring with a hard eye, to having the ears flat, and to having the corners of the mouth pulled back. Of course, the very last step would be biting.

A behaviorist can help you figure out what’s causing the reactivity and why, and how to deal with it in the best way possible.