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Spanking won't end dog's destructive habit

By STEVE DALE Special to the Times
Published March 8, 2007

Q: Princess, our 12 1/2-year-old poodle, has been tearing up books and newspapers. She touches nothing when we're away from the home during the day, but when we leave in the evening, it's another story. We've tried spanking and scolding her, but nothing works. What can we do?

A: Please, don't spank your dog. The only lesson she'll learn is not to trust you or human hands. What's more, Princess can't possibly understand that the spanking is for previously ripping up books and papers. Showing her the books and papers as you scold or spank her might lead her to think that books and papers prompt this angry response from humans.

Darlene Arden, author of Small Dogs, Big Hearts: A Guide to Caring For Your Little Dog Howell Book House, New York, 2006; $25.99, points out that it's important for Princess to have a geriatric evaluation from your veterinarian to determine if a health issue might be affecting her behavior, which at her age is particularly possible. Anxiety caused by diminishing senses (hearing and eyesight) may or may not be contributing to what's happening. Arden also points to new research indicating that dogs who suffered from separation anxiety early in life are more likely to have the same problem as they age.

Then again, perhaps your family is simply away from home too many hours for Princess to deal with. If so, at least play with your dog or walk her before you leave in the evening. "Also, keep books and newspapers out of her reach," says Arden. "Replace the reading material with dog toys she'll like, such as Kong toys stuffed with doggy toothpaste or biscuits."

If your vet thinks anxiety may play a role in Princess' behavior, you could placate your pooch with a Plug-in diffuser called the Dog Appeasing Pheromone (available through vets, pet stores and online). This provides a kind of canine aromatherapy.

Big dog, small space

Q: I live in a small apartment, and I want a Siberian husky. My cousin, who shows huskies, thinks I'm crazy. I do jog every day, and I realize these dogs need lots of exercise. Should I even attempt to get a husky?

A: Take a husky who lives in a mansion but gets stuck in the back yard all day, without socialization or a chance to do anything except find a way to jump the fence - or take a husky living in even a small apartment but with a chance to get a daily run - which huskies love - and a chance to socialize with people and dogs along the way - which huskies relish - I'd choose your small place anytime. More important, so would any husky.

Steve Dale welcomes questions/comments from readers. He will answer those of general interest in his column. Write to Steve at Tribune Media Services, 2225 Kenmore Ave., Suite 114, Buffalo, NY 14207. Send e-mail to petworld@aol.com.

[Last modified March 7, 2007, 22:13:02]