Episodes > 202 > Pet Trainer

Neurotic Breakdown

A Neurotic dog can be a chaotic situation for owners and pets. It is important to seek professional help early; pets' neurotic behaviors in most cases escalate with time and will almost never resolve itself on its own.

Possible Signs of a Neurotic Dog:

• Constantly Anxious
• Compulsive Behavior
• Responds franticly to objects or sounds
• Cannot learn any conditioned reflexes
• State of overactive restlessness
• Fixated on certain things

Please consult a professional trainer and veterinarian if you believe you may have a neurotic pet.  Prescriptions and lifestyle changes can be prescribed to help with your pet’s condition. 

Coach Ron Whites Steps to Prevention: 
Early socialization of pets is a good tool to help prevent neurotic behavior.
It’s an easy 3 step process. 

1. Train your dog the basics:  sit, down, stay, come, etc.
   
   
2. Take your dog out to new places, sounds, smells.  When your pet reacts normally to new things reward him with praise and treats.  When your pet has any unwanted reactions redirect him and have him focus on something different.  Make sure and reward him when the unwanted behavior stops but make sure not to reward the bad behavior. 
   
   
3. Repeat step two.  Socialization is a life long commitment.  There are always going to be new and thrilling environments for your pets.  The goal is to make your pet ready for anything.
   

HERE’S THE POOP
Just like humans, pets can suffer from mental illness.  Disorders can be triggered by environments and/or genetics.  Veterinarians are learning more everyday about pet disorders and can help with medications and also refer clients to trainers who can help.