There’s a reason one of the first questions you’ll be asked when applying to doggy daycare is whether your pet has had professional training. In basic obedience classes, your dog learns commands such as sit, stay, down, come, and “leave it.” He’ll learn to walk properly on a leash, without pulling. Your dog is also exposed to other dogs in these classes, so you have a good idea of how he reacts to canines of different sizes and types.
Not every dog is suited to a doggy daycare environment. There are some behaviors correctable with professional training, while others pose too much risk for fellow canines and staff. Well-managed doggy daycare programs require a temperament test before accepting your pooch.
Difficult Behaviors
The ideal candidate for doggy daycare gets along with fellow canines and is generally well-behaved. The animal is not aggressive towards either dogs or people. Issues that may affect your dog’s acceptance into doggy daycare include:
- Excessive barking
- Fear
- Herding
- Humping
- Overexuberance
Any sort of aggression is a red flag. One of the most common problems involves resource guarding. Many dogs experience food aggression, and will attack another dog getting near a dog chew or treat. However, in a dog’s mind, resource guarding isn’t limited to food. It may involve a favorite toy, a bed or sleeping area, or virtually anything it considers “theirs” that another dog threatens. Signs of resource guarding may include growling or biting, or chasing another dog –or person –away from the item.
How a Professional Trainer Can Help
A professional trainer can help with certain behavioral problems. Of course, it’s not the trainer’s job alone. The owner must follow the trainer’s instructions and work consistently with the dog for a resolution. Doggie daycare providers can usually recommend trainers specializing in your pet’s particular issues.
Some issues tend to get better with time, as long as the dog receives regular training. A young dog with too much exuberance initially for doggy daycare may prove just fine as he gets older. Some dogs possess tons of excess energy because they don’t have the opportunity to work it off. The adage, “A tired dog is a good dog,” makes sense. Give your dog plenty of exercise and you may find yourself with a better-behaved pet.
Alternatives
What if it turns out your dog just isn’t compatible with doggy daycare? There are plenty of alternatives. Consider hiring a dog walker to walk him during the day. Perhaps he doesn’t get along with every dog, but has canine friends. Arrange playdates so he can lark about with dogs he likes. If you have the time to give him plenty of mental and physical stimulation, he doesn’t need doggy daycare.
State-of-the-Art Doggy Daycare Equipment
Your doggy daycare, boarding facility, animal shelter, veterinary clinic, or other canine-related business needs durable, easy-to-clean high quality kennel panels, animal cages, and dog daycare equipment. At Direct Animal, we offer expertly designed and manufactured state-of-the-art equipment made to last the life of your business.
