Introduction to Ask Dr. Paola Series
Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their dog’s health and well-being. Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned dog lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your furry friend happy and healthy.
Why Is My Dog Chewing the Walls?
Dr. Paola addresses a question from Fred, whose 2-year-old beagle, Donny, has recently started chewing on walls. Dr. Paola explains that this behavior is common in young, intelligent hounds like beagles, and it often signals a mix of boredom, frustration, and possibly separation-related stress. To address this issue, Dr. Paola recommends enriching Donny’s environment with puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, and scent games that tap into his natural instincts. She also suggests giving Donny a long sniff-based walk or structured play session before leaving him alone to reduce the likelihood of destructive chewing.
Help! My Dog Barks Like Crazy During Dinner!
Pippa asks for help with her dog, Luna, who barks excessively during dinner time. Dr. Paola explains that Luna has likely learned that barking is followed by the rewarding event of being fed, so she needs to teach Luna that calm behavior, not barking, is what makes dinner arrive. Dr. Paola recommends changing the association by only presenting Luna’s meal when she is quiet, even if it’s just for a few seconds at first. Gradually extending the period of silence before setting the bowl down can help shift Luna’s focus from barking to offering calm, predictable responses.
Help! My Dog Pee’s in the Middle of the Night!
Davey seeks advice on his 5.5-year-old Goldie, Jersey, who has started scratching at the door in the middle of the night to go outside. Dr. Paola suggests that this sudden change in behavior could be due to a medical issue, such as a urinary tract infection or digestive upset, and recommends a thorough veterinary examination to rule out any underlying conditions. If Jersey receives a clean bill of health, Dr. Paola advises reinforcing calm behavior, ensuring a consistent bedtime routine, and providing a quiet activity before bed to help him settle.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dr. Paola’s expert advice provides valuable insights into common behavioral issues in dogs, such as chewing, barking, and changes in elimination habits. By addressing the underlying causes of these behaviors and providing practical solutions, Dr. Paola helps dog owners understand their pets’ needs and develop strategies to promote healthy, happy relationships. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden change in behavior or a long-standing issue, Dr. Paola’s guidance can help you navigate the challenges of dog ownership and create a more harmonious home for you and your furry friend.