Are You Reinforcing Your Pet’s Phobia?

Pet owners make the mistake of encouraging their pets’ phobia albeit unintentionally or for some, maybe intentionally. When they are frightened, they have a fight or flight response. A dog suffering from phobia or fear may think that running or hiding is the way to deal with this feeling.

If your dog was able to remove itself from that situation, its fear of it is reinforced. In fear of aggression, they can learn that aggressive behavior may be able to help them deal with it if it results in them being able to remove that stimulus. Some dog owners play a significant part in contributing to their dog’s fearfulness albeit unknowingly. When you comfort them while the stimulus is present, it only encourages their response which is fear. Try to offer food or attention, but such gestures only make them think that their fearfulness to the stimulus is the right reaction. This only reinforces their phobia and aggravates the problem.

Behavior issues exhibited by your pet should require a visit to your professional veterinary hospital Bend, OR.

Published by Health Care

It provides information about animal health care from expert veterinarians. Includes symptoms, behavior, prevention, and common conditions of pets.

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