Behavioral Modification

Address unwanted dog behaviors through desensitization, counter-conditioning, and environmental management.

When to Use

• A dog shows reactivity (lunging, barking, growling) toward other dogs, people, or stimuli
• Separation anxiety manifests as destructive behavior, vocalization, or house soiling when left alone
• Resource guarding: the dog stiffens, growls, or snaps when approached while eating or holding an object
• Excessive barking, jumping, pulling on leash, or other behaviors that interfere with daily life
• After basic obedience is established — behavioral modification builds on foundation commands

Inputs

• Required: A specific unwanted behavior to address (not "the dog is bad" but "the dog lunges at other dogs on leash")
• Required: The dog's threshold distance or trigger level (how close/intense before the behavior starts)
• Optional: History of the behavior (when it started, what triggers it, what makes it worse)
• Optional: High-value treats that the dog will eat even when mildly stressed
• Optional: Veterinary clearance (rule out pain or medical causes for behavior changes)