engleski

Introducing a behaviour referral practice for dogs at the veterinary clinic

Current research has shown that certain differences in behaviour cases distribution may be found between countries/regions. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess behaviour problems reported by dog owners to the new referral practice in Croatia. During 7 months a total of 10 dogs were presented to behaviourist. The owners were asked to fill the questionnaire, and subsequently called for conversation at the veterinary clinic. The dogs were 8 males and 2 females, between 6 months and 11 years old. Both females and none of males were neutered. Two females and 2 males were mixed breed, while others were pure breed dogs (Maltese, Pekingese, Bull Terrier, Beagle, Dachshund, German Shepherd). Four males and 1 female were aggressive according to the owners’ claims: 4 dogs were aggressive toward people and 1 toward other dogs. Consequently, 1 male aggressive toward people (Bull Terrier), and 1 male aggressive toward dogs (mix breed) were euthanized. Two owners presented complain about their dogs fearfulness of certain dogs, humans and sounds (Dachshund and Maltese) ; both dogs were afraid to go out for a walk and a lack of socialisation was diagnosed. Two dogs were destructive: the female re-homed from a shelter and the male taken from a breeder (Beagle). One owner complained about dog’ s mounting behaviour on her leg ; the dog was a male taken from a street. During consultations owners acknowledge that their dogs have more behaviour problems (e.g. excessive vocalisation, jumping up), but only one owner previously searched for advices from a trainer. The results indicate that, in consistency with other studies, aggressiveness was the most common problem behaviour that owners report to the behaviourist. However, the worrying aspect for dogs in Croatia could be the lack of owners’ readiness to search for behaviourist help.

Dog; Behaviour; Referral Practice; Veterinary Clinic

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