Module 8. The most common problems and challenges for dog owners
  • How to deal with separation anxiety in dogs
  • How to properly respond to aggression or excessive barking
  • When can a petsitter’s help be useful?
  • Myths about dog training – what to avoid

Downloadable materials

Homework

1️⃣ Self-analysis: What challenge are we dealing with?
Write down which of the following topics applies to your dog (you can choose more than one):
  • Separation anxiety
  • Excessive barking
  • Aggression
  • Another behavior that concerns you
Describe it in your own words – how it shows up, when it happens, how often.



2️⃣ Dog observation (3 consecutive days)
Choose one challenging behavior and observe it closely for 3 days:
  • When does it occur?
  • In what context?
  • What happens right before and right after?
  • Write short notes – 2–3 sentences per day is enough.



3️⃣ Video journal (optional, but highly recommended)
Record 1–2 situations (e.g. leaving your dog alone, meeting another dog on a walk, barking at the window).
If you can’t record, describe the situation as precisely as possible, step by step.



4️⃣ Choose and apply one recommended technique
Based on the course material, pick one specific action you can start right away, such as:
– “Practice calm departures without emotional goodbyes.”
– “Use a sniffing mat before leaving home.”
– “Move the dog’s bed to reduce window stimuli.”
– “Practice short separations at home daily (with a door or baby gate).”
Apply it for at least 3 days and note your observations.



5️⃣ Summary
Reflect on the following questions:
  • What did you notice about your dog that you hadn’t seen before?
  • What was the most difficult for you?
  • What will be your next step?