Dog Behavior Library

Teaching your dog to turn 180 degrees on command allows you to turn him away from things that might make him react negatively.

Thinking of adopting a dog? Read the SF SPCA adoption handbook to learn more.

Teach your dog to be left alone without setting off his anxiety with this training game.  See also Separation-Related Problems, Independence Training, Crate Training, and KONG Stuffing handouts for more information.

Learn what attention-seeking behaviors look like and how to address them in your dog.

Thinking of adopting a puppy? Read the SF SPCA adoption handbook to learn more.

Learn what aggression looks like and how to address aggressive behavior in your dog.

Find out why tying your dog outside while you run into a store or restaurant is not in your dog’s best interest.

Here’s an overview that can help you learn to read your dog’s signals. Look for the clues provided by the look in her eyes, the tone of her voice, the position of her ears and body, and the motion of her tail.

Sometimes it is beneficial for your dog to wear a basket muzzle. The muzzle will keep you and others safe. When your dog is properly introduced to the muzzle, it can make him more relaxed and comfortable during the behavior modification program—or anything else your dog may not like.

Learn why dogs beg and how to address begging behaviors in your dog.

Learn why dogs bark and how to address barking from your dog.

Learn why dogs chew and how to address your dog’s chewing.

Teaching your dog to spend time alone in a crate can help with house-training, chew training, settling, and kenneling.

Learn why dogs jump up on counters and how to address this behavior.

Learn about various types of collars and leashes to find the best fit for your dog.

Teaching your puppy to spend time alone in a crate can help with house-training, chew training, settling, and kenneling.

Watch this video to learn how to teach your dog to go down on command.

Learn about the recommended care for adult and senior dogs.

Learn why dogs are aggressive to other dogs while on leash and how to address this behavior.

Learn why it is important to properly care for your pet’s teeth and the benefits of using anesthesia for a thorough cleaning and examination.

Down is a great way to teach your dog impulse control and to make your life easier. A dog lying down can’t jump, surf counters, knock over trash cans, or steal your shoes. A dog that masters a well-trained down is much easier to take out in public and to other people’s houses.

Learn how to properly introduce a new dog to your home and resident dog(s).

Learn why dogs are aggressive to other dogs while off leash in a dog park and how to address this behavior.

Teaching your dog to drop something on command means you will be able to get dangerous or unauthorized items away from your dog without problems or aggression.