Many of us bring a dog into our household for companionship.  We like the warm cozy feeling of our dog’s head in our hands.  We like the way they follow us around adoringly.  We like the way they let us know if bad things go bump in the night.  We like them to be near us, as a companion would be.  And dogs, being the social animals that they are, enjoy being our companions – a perfect match.

Sometimes, somehow, some way, something goes wrong.  Banjo starts racing through the house.  Jake has a few accidents on the rug.  Cody starts chewing everything in reach.  It’s a nice day, and the simple solution seems to be to just leave him outside for a while.  One day turns into two days or even longer.  It won’t take long before your dog starts seeking companionship again.  After the initial burst of excitement, Banjo will strain against the chain that confines him in an attempt to play with the dog next door. Jake will bark at anyone who passes by, and Cody will scratch at the back door in search of your affection.  Now the simple solution doesn’t seem so simple anymore, and you have additional problems to address! 

Did you know that the simple act of chaining a dog creates more problems than it fixes?  Dogs become easily frustrated when they see things and cannot reach them.  Toys and food that are tossed out of reach create anxiety.  Other animals or children running nearby may look fun, but Buster will work himself into a frenzy trying to get their attention.  And, if left on the chain for too long, this behavior becomes ingrained.  Constant frustration and the lack of socialization that comes with chaining can lead to aggression, and what started as a solution to simple problems has now become much more serious.  Take steps before that happens to address your dog’s behavior problem, and you will find it was well worth the effort. 

There are many resources available to help you work through rough times with your friend: books, DVDs, classes, trainers, Web sites.  If the list of resources seems too large to pick through, we can certainly help.  Contact the Richmond SPCA Behavior Helpline at 804-643-SPCA, e-mail for suggestions, or visit the behavior section of our Web site (www.richmondspca.org/behavior) for answers to lots of your pet questions. 

Other reliable resources might be your veterinarian, your local pet store, or even a friend with a well-trained dog.  The key is to seek help early.  One house-training problem can quickly develop into a house-training, barking, digging, can’t-even-walk-him-on-leash-anymore problem if not dealt with constructively. 

Don’t chain your friend outside.  Teach him how to live inside with you. He’ll be happier, and you will be, too.

Today’s blog author is Marie Tripton. Marie is the manager of the Richmond SPCA’s Behavior Helpline.

i am so happy to see you guys addressing these very important issues in regards to dogs and their well being.

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