Solving Bad Behavior

Many of the behaviors that dogs exhibit, which we may consider problematic, are actually normal canine activities that may be inconvenient for us. However, they may also be a result of insufficient stimulation or even an organic disorder. It is important to note that these behaviors are not a form of revenge on the part of your dog. If your Siberian is displaying unwanted behavior, it is essential to determine the root cause before attempting to address the issue and redirect your dog's behavior towards more socially acceptable activities.

Proper training can be effective in redirecting negative behavior patterns, but it requires effort and dedication. In severe cases, it may be necessary to seek the assistance of a professional dog behaviorist. Chewing, running, howling, and digging are all natural dog behaviors that stem from the innate urge to find food and shelter. However, in a bored, lonely, or overstressed Siberian, these behaviors can become intolerable for both you and your neighbors.

There are six ways to respond to unwanted behavior patterns, and it is important to choose the most appropriate method for your specific situation.

» Change your behavior.

» Change your dog’s behavior.

» Change the environment: Build a higher fence, get earplugs, confine the dog, and so on.

» Medicate the dog.

» Medicate yourself.

» Get used to it.

Stress in dogs can lead to various issues, which are often caused by fear, confusion, or separation anxiety. Identifying and mitigating these stressors can significantly alleviate many of these problems. However, it can be challenging to do so in some cases. For instance, the Blue Angels' aerial maneuvers, which occur every few years, can be an impressive display for humans, but for dogs, it can cause distress and anxiety, as observed in my own pet.

Remember

It is important to note that a singular solution may not be applicable to all cases. The appropriate course of action will vary depending on the behavior in question, its underlying causes, and the level of patience required for successful intervention.

Based on recent surveys, Siberian Huskies rank fourth among dog breeds in destructive behavior. This behavior can be attributed to their high energy levels and susceptibility to boredom, coupled with a strong chewing impulse. It is important to note that destructive behavior is not an indication of a bad dog, but rather a natural response to various circumstances. Dogs do not act out of revenge or malice, but rather to communicate their needs, such as loneliness or boredom. In this chapter, we provide guidance on common behavior problems in Siberian Huskies and dogs in general, and offer options for addressing them. Ultimately, you, in consultation with your veterinarian, will determine the best course of action for your dog. With the information presented in this chapter, you will be equipped to make an informed decision.

Coping with Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a common issue among dogs that can lead to destructive behavior patterns. It is particularly prevalent in the Siberian breed, which is highly pack-oriented and dislikes being alone. There are various causes of separation anxiety, such as changes in ownership, moving homes, or a shift in routine. Additionally, the behavior may suddenly manifest after a family member passes away or leaves for college. Dogs thrive on routine and any disruption can trigger separation anxiety. As a result, it is important to be aware of the signs, which may include:

» Attempting to escape

» Drooling excessively

» Exhibiting destructive behavior, such as chewing — or in some cases even eating — the furniture

» Howling when you’re gone (if you don’t have a security system to track this behavior, just ask the neighbors)

» Pacing

» Whining and crying when you’re about to leave

Separation anxiety is a common issue among dogs, with experts estimating that 20 to 40 percent of dog behavior problems can be attributed to this condition. Symptoms of severe separation anxiety can include excessive salivation, cringing, whimpering, and other signs of distress. This condition is particularly prevalent among dogs that have been adopted from shelters or have experienced frequent changes in living environments. Additionally, dogs with noise phobias may be more susceptible to developing separation anxiety.

Tip

It is not advisable to crate a dog with separation anxiety through forceful means. This could lead to the development of barrier anxiety, which can exacerbate the situation.

In this article, valuable information is shared regarding the sensitization process for both pet owners and their dogs, aimed at reducing the stress associated with separation anxiety.

Sensitize yourself

The Siberian breed is known for its strong work ethic and was originally bred to work alongside humans all day, every day. It is important to understand and respect their natural instincts. If your dog is experiencing separation anxiety, it is recommended to provide them with more social interaction, whether that be with their owner or other dogs. Taking the time to play, exercise, and care for your dog can greatly improve their well-being. It is important to prioritize their needs and give them the attention they deserve rather than simply providing basic necessities and leaving them alone for extended periods of time.

Tip

Here are my suggestions:

» Let your dog sleep in your bedroom with you if you can. He’ll enjoy your company even while you’re asleep.

» Try bringing your dog into work with you once in a while. For a period of time, I brought my animal to work, citing medical issues that required frequent attention. While there was some truth to this, I recognize the unprofessional nature of my actions. According to a survey conducted by the American Animal Hospital Association, 24 percent of dog owners bring their pets to work at least occasionally. A well-behaved dog can have a positive impact on workplace stress levels and blood pressure. However, it is important to note that if the dog causes damage to the workplace or disrupts productivity, it may result in negative consequences for the owner.

» Hire a dog walker or enroll your dog into doggy daycare. Naturally, these recommendations entail financial resources. Nonetheless, if within your means, they can prove to be an ideal solution.

Desensitize the dog

It is recommended to begin desensitizing your dog to being alone. While it may not be possible to bring your dog to certain events, such as the opera, it is reasonable to expect that they can be left alone for a few hours without causing destruction. The following suggestions can assist in achieving this goal.

» Don’t make a big fuss about either departing or returning. It is recommended to refrain from interacting with your canine companion for approximately 15 minutes prior to departing. It is important to avoid making eye contact with your dog during this time, despite the peculiar nature of this suggestion.

» Prepare to leave, but don’t actually do so. By consistently performing this action multiple times throughout the day, it is possible to prevent your Husky from associating the act of you retrieving your purse with being left alone.

» Gradually lengthen the time that he’s left home alone. Familiarizing your pet with your absence is crucial. Initially, try leaving for a brief period of time and returning shortly after. Offer your pet a toy before departing and retrieve it upon your arrival. With repetition, your pet will learn that you will always return and avoid exhibiting destructive behavior.

Tip

It is important to take a gradual approach when training your dog to be comfortable with separation. It is not advisable to assume that your dog can be left alone for extended periods of time simply because they behaved well for a shorter period. It is recommended to increase their alone time by 15 minutes at a time.

Medicate the dog when necessary

When other methods prove ineffective, medications may be considered as an option. However, it is important to note that they should not be the primary solution. The following medications are frequently utilized in the treatment of separation anxiety in canines.

» Alprazolam (Xanax): Especially great for dogs afraid of thunder.

» Amitriptyline (Elavil): Used for separation anxiety as well as more general types of anxiety.

» Buspirone (Buspar): Used for general anxiety.

» Clomipramine (Clomicalm): Clomipramine is the first FDA-approved treatment for separation anxiety in dogs, and it has been found to be effective for other types of anxiety as well. It is important to note that clomipramine should be used in conjunction with good training practices and is not intended to be a replacement. Many owners have reported seeing improvements in their dogs within a month of starting treatment. While some dogs may require long-term use of clomipramine, most can be gradually weaned off the medication within 3 to 6 months.

» Dexmedetomidine (Sileo): Used for general anxiety and especially anxiety caused by noise.

» Diazepam (Valium): Used for situational anxiety, not good for regular anxiety.

» Fluoxetine (Reconcile or Prozac): Used for separation anxiety.

» Lorazepam (Ativan): Used for situational anxiety.

» Paroxetine (Paxil): Used for general anxiety.

» Sertraline (Zoloft): Used for general anxiety.

Discuss all these options with your veterinarian

Coping with the Thunder Phobia

Thunderstorm phobia is a common and concerning issue among dogs, and even some adult humans. Given the dangerous nature of lightning, this fear is particularly understandable for breeds that traditionally lived in open-air environments, like Huskies. While genetics may play a role in this phobia, it is highly variable among different individuals of the same breed or even litter. Treatment of thunder phobia is complex, requiring consideration of physiological, emotional, and behavioral factors. Additionally, there is a risk of passing on the fear to your dog if you also suffer from this phobia. It is essential to be aware of the signs of thunder phobia, as they can be observed before the storm even hits. These signs, such as panting, pacing, hiding, and whining, indicate real distress and should not be ignored.

Warning

Efforts to desensitize dogs by playing recordings of thunderstorms and similar sounds have proven to be largely ineffective.

Overcoming a fear of thunder can present a challenge, but with the right approach, it is achievable. Please consider the following recommendations:

» Comfort your dog. The recommended approach involves gently hugging your dog, speaking in a soothing tone, and fostering a calm and relaxed environment.

» Use a dog-anxiety vest. Many commercial thunder shirts or wraps are readily available.

» Spray comforting dog pheromones. You can purchase them online or at your local pet store.

» Give him calming supplements. Different ones are available.

» Have your vet prescribe anxiety medication. Several of the medications listed in the "Medicate the dog when necessary" section earlier in this chapter have proven effective. It is recommended to consult with a veterinarian for further guidance.

Addressing the Vocalist

Huskies are known for their vocal nature, often producing a range of sounds from barks to howls. While some may find these sounds annoying, it is important to understand that vocalization is a natural behavior for dogs. It is recommended to tolerate and even appreciate this behavior in moderation.

Technical stuff

According to canine researcher Kathryn Lord, the emergence of barking can be linked to the evolved behavior of mobbing, which is a collaborative anti-predator response to a perceived intruder.

Chapter Figuring Out What Your Husky Is Telling You provides valuable insights into interpreting your Husky's vocalizations. By accurately identifying the triggers, you can effectively address the underlying issues. It is recommended to keep track of the circumstances that elicit the behavior and consult the following guidance for further assistance.

» If you suspect a medical cause, consult your vet for advice.

» Reward your dog with attention for quiet behavior.

» If your dog isn’t neutered, schedule the surgery.

» It is recommended to provide the dog with alternative activities, such as ample exercise. It is important to incorporate exercise into the dog's daily routine, rather than solely as a solution to excessive barking. Otherwise, the dog may continually vocalize in order to be taken for a walk. Ensuring the dog is well-exercised will result in a quieter and more content pet.

» Providing an ample supply of chew toys and interactive playthings may encourage a more subdued lifestyle for your pet.

» If the dog is frequently barking outdoors, it is advisable to bring him inside when he begins to bark. This will help him understand that excessive barking can result in being confined indoors. Additionally, if feasible, installing a sturdy fence or dense hedge around the yard can help reduce the dog's sensitivity to external stimuli.

Warning

It is recommended to avoid raising your voice at a barking dog as this may exacerbate their barking behavior. Dogs tend to respond to loud noises by increasing the volume of their own barking.

Dealing With Holes: The Digger

Siberian dogs have a natural inclination for digging, stemming from their arctic ancestry. They have learned that digging in the snow can provide warmth, while digging in moist ground can help them stay cool. Additionally, they seem to have discovered that digging in a sofa can offer them a comfortable spot to rest.

Remember

Digging behavior in puppies can often begin as early as 3 months of age, with the window for this behavior remaining open until approximately 3 years old in Huskies. If this behavior has not been observed by this age, it is unlikely to develop in the future.

In the subsequent sections, I will analyze methods to observe indications from your excavating Husky and techniques that may aid in restraining the behavior.

Stay observant

It is important to observe the reason behind your Husky's digging behavior. It could be a means of communication to convey a message. It is essential to pay attention to the underlying cause of the digging, as it may be indicative of something significant. It is possible that your Husky is merely exhibiting typical dog behavior, or he may be attempting to communicate a particular message.

Tip

If your Husky is displaying a behavior of pawing at the floorboards, it could potentially indicate the presence of a rodent infestation in your home. We recommend promptly contacting a professional exterminator to address the issue.

If your Siberian is exhibiting digging behavior outside, it is recommended to observe the pattern of the digging. While it is possible that your Husky is simply burying a bone, it is more likely that there may be underlying reasons for this behavior. These holes may indicate a variety of potential issues.

» Holes dug all around the yard indicate your Husky isn’t getting enough exercise.

» Holes dug in the vicinity of a fence could indicate his desire to escape.

» Holes dug in moist garden soil suggest that your dog is too hot; he’s merely looking for a place to cool off. He may also be hunting for moles or mice. In their enthusiasm for this sport, more than one Siberian has dug up a yellow jacket nest.

Indoor digging may signify that your canine companion is feeling restless or isolated, and is seeking your attention. In the case of senior dogs, such behavior could indicate discomfort due to temperature fluctuations, prompting them to use the carpet as a means of regulating their body heat.

Discourage digging

To prevent your canine from re-excavating an outdoor hole, it is advisable to implement the following measures:

» Put a few pieces of carefully selected dog feces in the hole. Siberians know that dog feces should remain covered.

» If your Siberian digs near the fence line, take the hint and bury the wire a few inches underground. Keep checking it to make sure he can’t escape.

» Confine your Husky to a safe area, but let him dig, and give in to his desire to mine dirt. For example, get a sandbox, and put it in an area that gets lots of afternoon shade.

Tip

It is recommended to supervise your dog and redirect him to the designated sandbox if he is observed digging elsewhere. While this may not completely eliminate his desire to dig, it will communicate disapproval and discourage the behavior in your presence.

» Interact with your dog in positive ways. Engage in activities such as grooming, playing Frisbee, or going for a hike to help your dog expend their energy. Interactive toys may also be beneficial. If necessary, consider seeking assistance from a nearby child who is enthusiastic about playing with dogs.

Warning

It is not recommended to fill a hole with water and force a dog's head into it as a means of correcting behavior. This practice is considered cruel and ineffective, as it can cause fear or defiance in the animal.

Chomping on Everything: The Chewer

Siberian dogs have a tendency to chew, particularly during their younger years. As with all puppies, they use their mouths to explore their surroundings. It is not uncommon for your dog to immediately chew on a new pillow despite showing no interest in older ones. Therefore, it is important to allow your dog to become familiar with new items before leaving them unattended with it.

Remember

It is not recommended to discipline your dog for chewing on inappropriate items. Although it can be frustrating to come home to a destroyed living room, reacting with anger will only cause your Husky to associate your return with negativity. Without catching your dog in the act, they will not understand the connection between their behavior and your disapproval. In some cases, it may be necessary to create a scenario where you can correct your Husky's behavior immediately. The following sections provide insight into why dogs chew and offer strategies to prevent this behavior.

Understanding why dogs chew

It is a common occurrence for dogs to seek attention, even if it is negative. It is important to exercise self-control and refrain from responding to negative behavior with negative attention. Removing the target item or dog with minimal disruption is recommended. Positive reinforcement should be used to reward good behavior, rather than giving attention to nuisance behavior.

Tip

It is possible that your Siberian is currently teething, and chewing can help alleviate any discomfort they may be experiencing. Ice cubes can serve as a suitable chew toy during this period. Not only does it provide the pup with something to chew on, but it also has a numbing effect on their sore gums. You can also freeze or chill your pup's regular toys or use a cold, rolled-up washcloth as an alternative. It's worth noting that Siberians are fond of the cold as it may remind them of their origins.

If your older Husky begins chewing suddenly, it could be an indication of dental or upper gastrointestinal problems. It is important to address this issue promptly as the chewing behavior may persist even after the underlying problem has been resolved.

In the absence of a regular feeding schedule, dogs may resort to searching for food in unconventional places, such as the sofa. If you are unable to maintain a consistent schedule due to work commitments and your dog has a habit of chewing on furniture, it may be worth considering the use of a pet-sitter or a self-feeder.

Alternatively, if your Husky displays a tendency to consume non-food items in large quantities, it may be indicative of a condition known as pica. In such a scenario, it is advisable to seek advice from a veterinarian.

Remember

Siberian dogs have a strong need for both human and canine companionship. If left without stimulation, they may become destructive.

I received correspondence from a canine companion who shared an anecdote regarding their experience. The dog expressed that they had to resort to chewing up three remote controls, two pairs of gloves, a valuable textbook, and a watch before their owner learned to properly store their belongings. Although the owner was initially slow to learn, positive reinforcement in the form of the dog licking their face as they picked up the damaged items eventually proved effective in conveying the message.

Curing chewing

It is important to understand that chewing is a natural behavior for dogs. If you notice your dog chewing on something inappropriate, it is recommended to provide a better alternative without making a scene. When your puppy starts to chew on furniture, offer a preferred toy and positively reinforce when they accept it. It is common for young dogs to have a strong urge to chew and dig, typically occurring between 6 to 10 months of age. This behavior may subside and then resurface around 18 months. As dogs mature, they tend to become less inclined to chew on objects.

Tip

It is advisable to engage in physical activity with your Husky prior to leaving him unattended. This will help to reduce the likelihood of destructive behavior such as chewing or digging, as a pleasantly tired dog tends to be more relaxed.

It is important to note that leaving a Husky alone and locked in a small area can lead to destructive behavior, as seen in the case of a Siberian who destroyed linoleum in a laundry room. It is recommended that Huskies be crate-trained to prevent such incidents.

Remember

It is recommended that dogs are not confined in windowless areas as it can lead to an increase in destructive behavior. It is beneficial for dogs to have access to a window as they enjoy observing their surroundings, much like humans. It is also recommended to provide toys in their confinement area to keep them mentally stimulated.

As pet owners, we often find ourselves away from our furry companions for extended periods of time. To ensure the well-being of your Siberian, it may be helpful to leave the television or radio on while you're away. While the choice of music is ultimately up to personal preference, it's worth noting that elevator music has been known to have a calming effect on dogs, which could be particularly beneficial for Huskies.

Preventing chair chomping

There are several bitter-tasting sprays and foams available in the market, such as the popular Bitter Apple, that can be effective in curbing a dog's destructive chewing habit. Other household items like Tabasco sauce, deodorant, mouthwash, and cheap perfume can also be used. Additionally, Protex is a product that specifically prevents dogs from chewing on fabric or their own fur. However, it is important to note that these preventive measures offer only temporary relief. It is essential to provide steady and consistent training to the dog or separate them from valuable items to curb the behavior permanently. In some cases, anxiety-reducing drugs like clomipramine can be used as a last resort to reduce anxiety and destructive behavior. However, it is important to remember that these drugs should not replace training but rather supplement it.

Stealing Set-Out Food: The Counter-Cruiser

In the canine industry, the act of taking food from kitchen counters is commonly known as countercruising. This behavior tends to escalate during the winter season, likely due to the breed's historical ties to the Arctic. The harsh weather conditions often elicit a strong desire for food, regardless of the consequences.

Remember

While some individuals have found success in deterring this behavior by utilizing noisy mousetraps and other anti-nosing-around items on the counter, the majority of individuals rely on effective management techniques. It is recommended to never leave any enticing items on the counter unattended.

It has been observed that certain Huskies possess the ability to open refrigerators. In fact, there are instances where individuals have had to resort to securing their refrigerators with chains and padlocks to ensure the safety of its contents.

NO FOOD IS SAFE

Leslie Anderson of Oklahoma City reported discovering a frozen turkey on the interstate, still properly wrapped. Her husband took the opportunity to bring it home for a meal. However, upon defrosting the turkey, their Siberian, Shadow, managed to amputate parts of it. Shadow was reprimanded and the turkey was discarded. Leslie expressed sympathy for the unfortunate turkey.

Dumping Trash: The Trashman

As dogs have a natural inclination towards scavenging, it can be challenging to prevent them from accessing a loaded trash can. To mitigate this issue, we recommend investing in a trash container equipped with a lid and foot pedal, or alternatively, storing the trash can in an area that is inaccessible to your pet. Concealment options include placing the trash basket under the sink, behind the cellar door, in the pantry, or any other location that is secure from a Husky's reach.

Remember

If you provide your Siberian with food from the table or permit him to beg during meals, you are essentially encouraging him to take what he wants. It would be unfair to hold him responsible if he takes something when you are not looking, as you have taught him this behavior.

TAKE IT FROM A VETERAN

I recently had the opportunity to speak with Lois Leonard, who is the owner, trainer, handler, and friend of a remarkable Siberian named Lojan's Very Special Sula. Sula's obedience skills are truly exceptional, having earned an impressive 248 qualifying scores in AKC obedience competitions over the course of nine years. Sula's accomplishments include winning 18 area Specialty High in Trials, 2 National Specialty High in Trials, and 3 all-breed High in Trials, which resulted in her being awarded the prestigious title of Obedience Trials Champion (OTCH). This title has only been achieved by two Siberians in history.

Despite Sula's impressive achievements, it is important to note that even the most well-trained dogs can be unpredictable in certain situations. Unfortunately, at the age of 15, Sula ran off after another dog and disregarded Lois's calls due to her deafness. Although Sula was not injured, Lois stresses the importance of never trusting a Siberian, or any dog for that matter, off lead in an unfenced area. It is a simple precaution that can prevent potentially dangerous situations from occurring.

Tip

If you happen to witness your Siberian engaging in food theft or trash dumping, it may be effective to deter such behavior by utilizing a mixture of water and lemon juice or vinegar. It is important to firmly vocalize the command "No!" in conjunction with this action to ensure that the animal does not perceive it as a playful interaction.

Running Off: The Escape Artist

Siberian Huskies possess exceptional escape skills, owing to their genetic disposition to roam. They can easily slip out of collars, break chains, and disappear into the surroundings. Furthermore, once they manage to escape, they have a tendency to remain missing.

Remember

The flight-instinct period for dogs typically occurs between 4 and 6 months of age. It is important to note that if a dog becomes loose during this period and has an enjoyable experience, it may encourage them to try and repeat the behavior. Additionally, it is important to exercise caution with certain breeds, such as Huskies, as they may have a natural inclination to wander regardless of age or physical condition.

Siberian Huskies possess a natural inclination towards running, with an innate ability to cover long distances with ease. Their genetic makeup is such that running, and even pulling sleds, comes naturally to them. It is important to note that when a Siberian runs, it is often in a straight line away from their owner, but this should not be mistaken for them running away. It is simply their instinct to run off. It is worth noting that a Siberian Husky has the potential to run so fast that they can be up to 20 miles away from their owner before realizing it. However, it is not uncommon for them to struggle with finding their way back home.

Tip

In order to ensure the safety and containment of your Husky, it is recommended that you construct a sturdy fence, ideally standing at a height of 6 feet. It is worth noting that a small number of Siberian Huskies have demonstrated the ability to scale fences as high as 8 feet. In the event that your Husky is a determined climber, it may be necessary to utilize a low-lying hot wire as a deterrent.

The optimal choice for fencing is a combination of wood and wire. It is recommended to bury the fence in the ground at a depth greater than the depth of a Siberian's digging capabilities, although some may be able to dig quite deep. It is worth noting that Siberians tend to dig for the sake of digging rather than as a means of escape.

While having a yard is beneficial, it does not necessarily guarantee that your Husky will use it for exercise. It is important to incorporate regular walks and supervised play into your dog's routine to prevent boredom and reduce the likelihood of escape attempts.

It is crucial to keep in mind that Siberians are not guard dogs or Retrievers, and therefore cannot be trained to stay at home or by your side off-leash. It is imperative to always have your Husky on a leash for their safety and the safety of others.

Hunting Other Animals: The Big (or Small) Game Hunter

Siberian Huskies possess a robust hunting instinct, commonly referred to as the prey drive. In certain circumstances, they may exhibit behavior that could result in harm to chickens, unfamiliar cats, rabbits, and groundhogs. In extreme cases, there have been instances of Siberian Huskies attacking and killing lambs or calves.

Remember

Due to their innate hunting instincts, Siberian Huskies cannot be fully trained to abandon their natural tendencies. While some Huskies may show no interest in hunting, many possess a strong passion for it. As the owner, it is crucial to ensure that your dog does not come into contact with livestock or neighboring pets. It is not reasonable to expect your neighbors to take extraordinary measures to protect their animals from your dog. It is your responsibility to take necessary precautions to prevent any incidents from occurring.

Heading for the Door: The Charger

As you prepare for work, you find yourself carrying several items including your laptop, phone, lunch bag, and a thoughtful gift for a coworker. While attempting to open the door, you proceed with caution, but unfortunately, your Siberian unexpectedly charges past you, causing the plant and your expensive laptop to fall to the ground, resulting in a messy and unfortunate situation. Additionally, your skirt was torn and you were unintentionally pushed against the wall.

Remember

It is imperative to address and rectify the behavior of charging the door. However, if this has become a habitual pattern, it may require a significant amount of time and effort to correct. It is crucial to involve all members of the family, particularly the children, as they are often the instigators of this behavior and the ones most affected by it.

There are individuals who assert that a dog that charges towards the door is exhibiting bullying behavior and attempting to assert dominance. However, this is not the case. Such behavior is simply a result of the dog's excitement to go outside and a lack of proper training in basic manners. It should not be attributed to any sort of dominant behavior.

Tip

When your dog is crowding you, it is important to maintain a professional demeanor. Stop abruptly and turn to face your Siberian. Speak in a firm tone and hold your hand at nose-level to create a physical barrier. If necessary, use your body to prevent your dog from passing you. Use commands such as "Wait!" or "Stay!" to reinforce the behavior. Slowly open the door and monitor your dog's behavior closely. If your Siberian attempts to move towards the door, firmly shake their collar and repeat the command. Consistent practice of this routine at every door in your home is necessary to eliminate this dangerous behavior.

Tip

It is recommended that you always exit the door before your Siberian. As the alpha, it is important to lead by example.

Being Playful: The Nipper

Puppies commonly engage in play biting as a means to learn their boundaries. It is crucial for puppies to remain with their littermates between the ages of 5 and 8 weeks to undergo this educational phase. This conduct is not considered aggression, as young dogs often express their playful intentions by wagging their tails and bowing to each other. However, puppies may also attempt to play bite their human companions, and it is essential to discourage this behavior promptly. While their jaws are weaker, their teeth are sharper than adult dogs, making it crucial to limit unrestricted play biting to prevent it from escalating into more severe biting. It is also important to note that while a young puppy may take your hand in its mouth, it should not clamp down on you with its teeth. If it does, it is necessary to withdraw your hand and firmly but gently reprimand the puppy until it withdraws its mouth. This behavior should ideally cease by the time your dog is six months old, although it may vary depending on the dog.

Getting Your Attention: The Jumper

The Siberian breed is known for their friendliness, which can sometimes manifest in an enthusiastic, yet unwelcome, hug. This behavior is simply a means of seeking attention. To address this issue, it is important to seek the assistance of friends and family. It is crucial to refrain from allowing others to enable this behavior by excusing it. While some may not mind the jumping, it is important to consider the potential harm that can be caused, particularly to those who are more vulnerable such as children or the elderly. It is important to note that a strong breed like the Husky can cause serious injury through their exuberant displays of affection.

The following methods can curb this behavior:

» Ignore your dog. Fold your arms, look away, and say, “No.”

» Greet your dog only when he is quiet and sits down. According to the theory, when attention is withdrawn, the unwanted behavior of the dog will cease due to the fact that it is attempting to receive attention.

Tip

It is recommended to wait until your Husky is sitting or standing quietly, either on their own or by command, before greeting them. It is best to maintain a low-key greeting to encourage your Husky to imitate your calm behavior.

» Get down and let your Husky see your face without his having to jump up to reach it. It is common for a dog to attempt to lick a person's face, as it is a behavior they are taught by their mother as a puppy. However, it is recommended that people avoid allowing the dog to approach their face and instead encourage the dog to maintain a safe distance. Maintaining a friendly demeanor while standing upright is recommended.

It is important to train your Husky not to jump up on you, regardless of what you are wearing. Dogs are unable to distinguish between casual attire and formal clothing. Therefore, consistent training is necessary to ensure that your dog remains well-behaved in all situations.

Warning

It is not recommended to use physical force such as kneeing your dog in the chest or holding his paws up to discourage him from jumping. Not only is this ineffective, but it can also cause harm to your dog or create fear towards you. It is important to establish a positive and trusting relationship with your dog to prevent unwanted behaviors. Using fear as a method of training can result in a negative impact on your relationship with your dog.

It is recommended to withhold praise for your dog until all four of their feet are firmly on the ground, regardless of the training technique utilized. This requires precise timing, but it is crucial for effective training. Additionally, some dogs may have a tendency to jump on furniture to seek attention. If this behavior is present in your Husky, it is suggested to explore various methods to discourage such behavior and prevent them from accessing furniture.

» Cover the furniture with soda cans partially filled with marbles or coins.

» Use a product called Snappy Trainer, which has the effect of mousetraps without the potential danger.

» Consider purchasing no-jump plastic strips that emit a sound when your dog steps on them. The Scat product utilizes static pulses at different levels to discourage your pet from accessing the couch.

» Keep the Husky out of the room.