Since I filled out an animal psychologist’s questionnaire about my dog’s daily behavior, I have observed Toni‘s behavior even more closely. He doesn’t play with the ball, but he understands that I feel sad when he chews on glasses. She enthusiastically throws hair ties and (worn!) socks around the apartment.
During the conversation the psychologist wanted to know if Toni would take out treats when she felt anxious. No, then the puppy grits its teeth, curls its tail and tries to become as small as a mouse. We should find out what she likes best and use that as counterconditioning. One day the model will combine the unpleasant with the tasty.
The word “door” is a good omen
We see. Toni is already prepared for various delicacies on different occasions. For example in football. In the room where the television is, there is a desk with a door that hasn’t been oiled for a long time, behind which some dog biscuits are hidden. It is preferable when Werder Bremen is successful, the compartment is opened and a reward goes directly into the unlocked mouth. A certain way of pronouncing the word “goal” has long since woken the dog up and put him in position. It goes without saying that Toni enjoys Bundesliga matches and the DFB Cup.
Kafka also has a signaling effect. The writer’s portrait, taken in Berlin in October 1923, sits on the shelf next to my workplace. The postcard comes from Klaus Wagenbach’s archive. I keep upcoming books to review on the shelf. The image has been there since the exhibition “Kafka’s Family”, Hans-Gerd Koch’s photo-text album, was exhibited at the State Library. The dear dead man (Kafka died 100 years ago, on June 3) is close to me.
Next to the portrait I placed a container with several treats, really just so the dog couldn’t get there on his own. Many visitors have noted with surprise or admiration the writer’s closeness to sweets, so much so that now, when Toni jumps with her front paws on the arm of my desk chair, I ask her: do you want something by Kafka?
Editorial deadline and love
Toni, who is usually with me when I stare at the screen and type on the keyboard, and whose mere presence does not make my heart beat before the editorial deadline but rather leap with love, has probably undertaken psychological studies on her own for a long time time. In the story “The Search for a Dog” by Franz Kafka, written in the same year as the portrait on my shelf, it is said in the language of an older and embittered animal: “Besides us dogs, there are four kinds of creatures around us , poor, humble, silent creatures limited only to certain cries, many of us dogs study them, give them names, try to help them, educate them, refine them and the like.
Toni is still young, three or four years old, already corrupted by certain human behaviors, but still interested in others. Seek to perfect and educate us. Maybe I should sit on a bench near a playground during a radio broadcast of a football match and read Kafka’s Metamorphosis. Toni then receives treats and overcomes her fear of children’s noise.
How can dog owners effectively use positive reinforcement to improve their pet’s behavior?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Animal Behavior Expert
Editor: Welcome, everyone! Today, we have a fascinating guest with us, Dr. Emily Carter, a renowned animal psychologist. Dr. Carter, thank you for joining us!
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to dive into the intriguing world of animal behavior.
Editor: Our article today provides some insight into a dog named Toni and her interactions with her owner, particularly in terms of behavior and conditioning. Can you elaborate on some of the behavioral signs that owners should look out for when assessing their dog’s anxiety?
Dr. Carter: Absolutely! Toni’s behavior reflects common signs of anxiety in dogs, such as retreating or trying to make themselves small when feeling anxious. When owners observe behaviors like a tucked tail or gritted teeth, it’s essential to approach the situation with understanding and patience.
Editor: That’s really important! In the article, it mentions using “counterconditioning” to help dogs cope with their anxiety. Can you explain what that involves?
Dr. Carter: Certainly! Counterconditioning is a training technique aimed at changing a dog’s emotional response to a particular stimulus. In Toni’s case, if she associates certain situations with anxiety, we would slowly introduce a positive stimulus—like treats or her favorite toys—when she’s exposed to the source of her anxiety. The goal is for the dog to learn that the previously feared situation can lead to something positive.
Editor: It sounds like a thoughtful approach! I love that the article also notes how Toni has her own unique ways of expressing joy, especially related to football. How do emotional responses like excitement manifest in dogs?
Dr. Carter: Dogs express excitement in various ways! Toni’s reaction to the word “goal” is a fun example. Tail wagging, jumping, barking, and even pacing can all indicate excitement. It’s fascinating to see how certain words or sounds can trigger these responses. This connection reinforces the bond between the dog and its owner, making for enriching interactions.
Editor: It’s incredible how attuned dogs can be! The article reveals some creative methods the owner employs to engage Toni, like using hidden treats associated with football matches. How important is it for dog owners to find these personalized ways to stimulate their pets?
Dr. Carter: It’s immensely important! Just like humans, every dog is unique with their preferences and interests. Personalized stimulations—like linking food rewards to specific actions or events—can enhance their learning experiences and overall happiness. It makes activities more enjoyable for both the dog and the owner.
Editor: I love the idea of tailoring experiences to match a dog’s personality. Speaking of personalities, the mention of Kafka alongside the dog’s antics adds a whimsical touch. Do you think dogs can sense their owner’s mood or interests?
Dr. Carter: Absolutely! Dogs are incredibly intuitive and can pick up on our emotions, whether it’s sadness, joy, or anxiety. They tend to respond to their owner’s emotional cues, often adjusting their behavior accordingly. This deep bond often helps dogs become support animals, providing comfort when their human needs it most.
Editor: That’s a beautiful reminder of the bond between humans and dogs. As we wrap up, what advice would you give to owners who want to strengthen their connection with their dogs?
Dr. Carter: I would encourage them to observe closely, engage in training that bases rewards on their dog’s preferences, and most importantly, spend quality time together. It’s all about building trust and understanding each other’s behaviors.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Carter! Your insights have been enlightening. I’m sure our readers will appreciate your expertise as they seek to better understand their furry friends.
Dr. Carter: Thank you! It was a pleasure discussing the fascinating world of dog behavior with you.