Behavioral disorders in domestic dogs (Canis familiaris): Psychology of learning contributions

Authors

  • Ángel M. Elgier Laboratorio de Psicología Experimental y Aplicada (PSEA). Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas (CONICET- UBA). Buenos Aires
  • Adriana Jakovcevic Laboratorio de Psicología Experimental y Aplicada (PSEA). Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas (CONICET- UBA). Buenos Aires
  • Alba E. Mustaca Laboratorio de Psicología Experimental y Aplicada (PSEA). Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas (CONICET- UBA). Buenos Aires
  • Mariana Bentosela Laboratorio de Psicología Experimental y Aplicada (PSEA). Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas (CONICET- UBA). Buenos Aires
  • Gabriela Barrera Laboratorio de Psicología Experimental y Aplicada (PSEA). Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas (CONICET- UBA). Buenos Aires

Abstract

Coexistence between humans and domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) can be affected by the presence of behavioural problems. These mainly relate to aggression, fear and separation anxiety, and to a lesser extent to compulsive disorders. Alterations associated with aggression are the most socially worrying because of the risk to humans. In this review the behavioural pattern of each type of alteration as well as some of the factors that are associated with their development are described. Finally, evidence from various behavioural treatments is reviewed and possible contributions from psychological science are discussed.    

Keywords:

behavioural problems, domestic dogs, behavioural treatments