Behavioural therapies

agressive behaviour

There are no inherently aggressive dogs, only dogs that, in certain contexts and experiences, may display aggressive behaviours.

Living with this reality can be emotionally challenging, and my role is to help you understand the underlying causes of these behaviours, strengthen your relationship with your dog, and create strategies that promote a calmer and safer coexistence.

I work with cases such as reactive-impulsive aggression (“reactivity”) on the lead, instrumental aggression directed towards people or other dogs, and resource-guarding, always using an individualised, respectful approach grounded in behavioural understanding.

separation anxiety

Behavioural problems that arise when a dog is left alone at home can have different causes, making it essential to assess each case individually.

Separation anxiety is a serious condition that should not be underestimated, and in most cases, behavioural support should work in conjunction with veterinary care.

Some of the most common causes of problems related to being alone at home include a lack of learning — the dog has not developed the skills to cope with the guardian’s absence — physical and mental under-stimulation, often associated with destructive behaviours, and experiences of fear, anxiety, or pain.

FEAR | PHOBIAS | STRESS | ANXIETY

Behaviours such as restlessness, repetitive movements, inappropriate panting, whining, excessive barking, trembling, drooling, avoiding interactions, hiding, or showing aggression can be linked to stress and anxiety.

If you notice that your dog appears more anxious or fearful than usual around objects or situations, I can help you minimise these symptoms and improve their day-to-day well-being.

It is important to distinguish concepts that are often used interchangeably: fear, which is expressed through escape or freezing behaviours; anxiety, related to the anticipation of unknown situations or future threats, such as separation or generalized anxiety; phobias, intense and persistent fears of specific stimuli, such as sounds or unfamiliar people; and stress, a state that disrupts the dog’s homeostasis and triggers behavioural, psychological, and physiological responses, potentially affecting both behaviour and long-term health.

adolescent dog and frustration

When our puppy enters adolescence, it is natural for undesired behaviours and some behavioural problems related to frustration and a lack of emotional regulation to emerge.

Support during this stage involves understanding the needs of the adolescent dog and helping them navigate this phase.

At the same time, we work on strengthening your bond by improving focus on the guardian, lead walking, and basic training exercises.

It is also essential to invest in habituation to new environments, people, other dogs, sounds, objects, and procedures such as veterinary or grooming care, always tailored to each individual case. Finally, we teach exercises that promote relaxation and calm behaviours, combined with a daily routine of physical and mental stimulation, ensuring balanced and healthy development.