behavioral-modification

# Behavioral Modification Address unwanted dog behaviors through desensitization, counter-conditioning, and environmental management. ## When to Use - A dog shows reactivity (lunging, barking, growling) toward other dogs, people, or stimuli - Separation anxiety manifests as destructive behavior, vocalization, or house soiling when left alone - Resource guarding: the dog stiffens, growls, or snaps when approached while eating or holding an object - Excessive barking, jumping, pulling on leash, or other behaviors that interfere with daily life - After basic obedience is established — behavioral modification builds on foundation commands ## Inputs - **Required**: A specific unwanted behavior to address (not "the dog is bad" but "the dog lunges at other dogs on leash") - **Required**: The dog's threshold distance or trigger level (how close/intense before the behavior starts) - **Optional**: History of the behavior (when it started, what triggers it, what makes it worse) - **Optional**: High-value treats that the dog will eat even when mildly stressed - **Optional**: Veterinary clearance (rule out pain or medical causes for behavior changes) ## Procedure ### Step 1: Identify and Define the Behavior Precision matters — vague descriptions lead to vague interventions. ```text Behavior Analysis (ABC Model): +-------------+------------------------------------------+ | Component | Define Specifically | +-------------+-------------------------------------...