How To Train Your Dog For Exams?

Many dogs radically change temperament when they need to be examined. Going to the vet becomes a headache for the owner and the pet. But if you train your dog for exams, these complications go away.

Dogs are usually the most affectionate animals around. That’s why millions of people invest in the company of these pets. But  some dogs can show defensive behavior if they are touched.

Contrary to popular belief,  improving an animal’s behavior is not that complicated. The solution is simple if you train your dog to take exams and have a harmonious relationship with others.

Why do dogs become aggressive when they need to be examined?

There are many causes for a dog’s aggressive behavior. It is usually necessary to find out the context in which the animal was violent. This will explain what caused this behavior.

The most frequent cause of aggression is the feeling of ownership over its owner and/or its territory. This explains why many dogs can develop aggressive behavior when another pet or other member of the family structure is involved.

It is true that some races are more territorial. But it is a mistake to believe that some races are doomed to be aggressive, while others are never violent. Every dog ​​can react according to the stimuli it is exposed to.

Innate character of the race

It should be noted that  a moderate dose of aggression is part of the dogs’ instinct. Dogs are descended from wolves. It is essential for them to ensure the safety of their group in a wild world. And this is guaranteed by conquering the surrounding territory and food.

But the case of not letting yourself be examined by the veterinarian or feeling uncomfortable being bathed or touched is different. What happens is that  the dog finds this situation threatening and seeks self-protection.

Every animal, even a human being, is afraid of the unknown. Dogs are no exception. If the visit to the vet and the handling environment are frightening, the dog may react aggressively or try to escape in its own defense.

There are factors that can make the feeling of fear worse. The first is the breed and character of each dog. Some breeds are more suspicious and alert to external stimuli. This is something that can be changed or improved with the socialization process.

Another important factor is the first time the animal is handled. It is important to prepare him for the first appointment with the veterinarian. Exposing a dog to a radical change of environment can provoke aggressive reactions  or subsequent trauma.

How to train your dog for exams?

Going to the vet or a canine hotel will require your dog to share territory and try new things. It is essential to prepare it beforehand to avoid any discomfort.

Preventive socialization to train your dog for exams

The first step in training your dog is to socialize him. The socialization process teaches your pet to relate peacefully to other animals and people. It also considerably reduces the risk of aggressive behavior and response to external stimuli.

The ideal is to socialize him while he is still a puppy, between the first 6 to 7 months of life. But it is also possible to socialize an adult dog by exposing it to contact with other dogs. It’s important to start by introducing him to a single puppy in a controlled environment. Later on, it can be gradually introduced into living with other dogs.

Gradual exposure and adaptation

Every adaptation is a process. Your dog needs to get used to the new stimuli. Before taking it directly to the vet, it is advisable to adapt it before going out to see other people and animals.

Before being examined or handled, it is important that the dog has adapted to the new environment of the veterinary clinic. Therefore, it  is recommended to take him to know the place and present it in a positive way.

Gradually the environment will become familiar and the anxiety or fear will subside.

Never force your dog onto the exam stretcher. This can make fear worse or traumatize. It is recommended to sharpen curiosity about the veterinarian, encouraging him to play or giving him treats. Thus, the dog will associate going to the vet with something fun and not suffering.

Good habits

It is important to trust the  institutions  care  for  pets. It is always necessary to ensure that practices are appropriate and respect animal welfare.

It is recommended that you find a reliable veterinarian  and carefully choose where to take your best friend for a bath and treatment.

Main image source: Cristina Fernández y Romero