Scaredy Dog! Understanding & Rehabilitating Your Reactive Dog by Brown Ali

Author:Brown, Ali [Brown, Ali]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi, pdf
Tags: ebook, Book, Dogs, Dog Training, Training, Pets
ISBN: 9780976641407
Publisher: Tanacacia Press
Published: 2010-12-14T22:00:00+00:00

Your best bet is a solid privacy fence. The construction doesn’t matter (PVC and wood are the most common), but preventing dogs from looking out at other dogs or people from peering in is the vital component. A 6-foot fence is better than a 4-foot fence to minimize the chances your dog will scale the fence. Having said that, I’ve known many dogs who have escaped even higher fences. Digging under the fence is another issue that may need to be addressed, and it is possible to run some of the fencing underground in an effort to deter digging. It is also possible to install posts, boards, or wire six inches below the surface to achieve the same result.

We are dealing with the safe containment of a fearful or reactive dog in this book. Each dog is different in terms of the things that scare him or set him off, but visual stimuli are usually involved to some degree. This is why a privacy fence is so preferred over chain link, split rail with wire, or electric fencing. Let’s look at each of these.

Chain link is relatively inexpensive to install. It can be covered in nice colors, such as green or black epoxy, and it usually safely contains a dog. But the dog can see out. Usually, the dog can see other dogs being walked down the road, or school children walking and skipping along, teasing each other, screaming and flailing. Sometimes that teasing becomes teasing the dog. They may throw sticks or stones at the dog, or they may run up to the dog, who is now barking, and then run away. All of that motion is stimulating to even a non-reactive dog. Then there are the cats and squirrels that frequent the area, not to mention skateboards, bikes and joggers. While a dog may be stimulated by the sounds or smells of such goings-on, the visual aspect is usually the final straw that sets him off.

It is possible to add slats to the chain link. These also come in different colors and may be made of metal or PVC. They usually are installed on a slanted angle to the ground, and can cut up to 90% of visibility. If you already have chain link, this addition is the best way to upgrade your fence and help your dog. Bamboo slats have also become popular. Split rail fencing can be very attractive, but it is difficult to create a visual barrier out of it.

Electric fencing is the poorest possible choice for fencing. Not only can the dog see out, and others see in, but also no one knows where the line is. Dogs and people may enter the property, not knowing where the line is. If your reactive dog has had lots of opportunities to bark at passersby, this may have built his frustration level to the point where he may nip, or worse. And if it’s a stray dog, your dog is at risk for being cornered in a fight.

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