Functional Analysis and Treatment of Problem Behavior in Three Animal Shelter Dogs

Problematic dog behavior at animal shelters may prevent animals from being adopted and may lead to euthanasia. Current dog behavior assessments lack scientific validity and do not identify the function (i.e., the reinforcement driving the behavior) of problem behavior. Functional analysis (FA) is an empirical method for determining the functions of problem behavior by manipulating antecedent and consequent events. By determining the functions of problem behavior, function-based treatments can be developed to reduce problem behavior and increase appropriate behavior.
Source: Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research - Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Source Type: research