Library

Dogs + Behavior & Training

  • There are numerous reasons that a dog might soil the house with urine and/or stools. Determining the specific reason is essential for developing a treatment program. Dogs that soil the home continuously or intermittently from the time they were first obtained may not have been properly house-trained.

  • Urine marking is normal in both male and female dogs and can even occur in dogs who are spayed or neutered. The underlying cause for urine marking should be determined so that an appropriate treatment plan can be implemented. Management, prevention, and supervision are important for a good outcome.

  • Some dogs exhibit signs of distress when they are left alone. Separation related behaviors include vocalizing, panting, pacing, and house soiling. Treatment includes behavior modification and, in some cases, medication.

  • Dogs often steal objects to play with them or to get someone to chase them. Stealing thus becomes rewarding to the dog. Supervision to prevent stealing is the best strategy. It is important to refrain from chasing your dog to retrieve stolen goods. Dogs can be trained to give back stolen items.

  • Urination during greetings occurs due to emotional conflict. The behavior may reflect submissive behavior or excitement but as is largely involuntary. Punishment is contraindicated. Treatment includes teaching dogs to greet calmly and teaching people to avoid assertive gestures.

  • What is normal and what is not? The answer is: when the behavior is harmless or just annoying, it is probably normal. When the behavior is destructive, disruptive, or places people or other pets at risk, it is not normal. Addressing the problems early, before they become ingrained, is the best hope for avoiding future problems. Dogs will be dogs, but people are still ultimately responsible for them.

  • Chewing is a normal behavior for puppies and adult dogs, but it can be unsafe when non-food items are ingested. Supervision combined with ample access to appropriate, appealing chew toys can prevent and reduce inappropriate chewing. In some cases, destructive chewing is abnormal and may reflect an underlying physical or behavioral illness. Consult your veterinarian if you are concerned.

  • Dogs dig for a variety of reasons. It may be done to accomplish a goal that, to a dog, is reasonable, but it can also be a sign of an underlying behavior disorder. This handout describes the most common causes of destructive digging and methods that can be used to manage it.

  • Dogues de Bordeaux are calm, patient and extremely loyal. They will get very attached to their owners, and being left alone for long periods will break their hearts.

  • English Cockers are friendly, active and love to be with their people. The breed is known to be particularly good with children, especially school-aged youngsters who have been taught how to behave around dogs.

Our Team

Our veterinarians are dedicated to providing the best possible healthcare by getting to know you and your pet.

Meet the Veterinarians & Team of Ponce De Leon Animal Clinic in Coral Gables! We’re pleased to provide exceptional vet care for your pets!

Please call us at 305-666-6813 to speak to one of our caring veterinary staff members!



Meet Our Team


About Us

When you visit, we are certain that you will feel the sense of genuine concern that we have for your pet. We are compassionate and effective in our practice.

We also have the latest equipment and a high-tech facility. With a full selection of veterinarian services, our staff is dedicated to your furry pal’s total health.

Call us today at to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.



Learn More About Us


Helpful Resources

We at Ponce De Leon Animal Clinic love animals. We are not only dedicated to the veterinarian profession but also to education and awareness. Here are a few online resources for your review!

If your furry companion needs veterinarian care, call us today at 305-666-68133 to learn more about our services.

Also you can schedule an appointment. We're prepared to handle your pet’s needs.



View Resources