We're all looking for ways to streamline our daily activities and make our lives easier. Before TV remote controls, people had to physically walk to the television to change the channel. Many conveniences have changed our lives with the push of a button.
Is the push of a button a one-size-fits-all solution to all problems? Just because we can, does it mean we should?
Let's consider dogs barking inside the home. Indoor barking could be triggered by a host of reasons including fear and territorial aggression. With the push of a button, an electrical shock or spray of citronella can stop the barking. Problem solved or problem compounded? The barking stopped, solving the person's problem. However, the underlying cause of the barking has not been addressed (the dog's problem) and is still there. Much like the adage "What goes up must come down,” the dog's stress from the underlying cause for the barking must go somewhere. This stress will most likely manifest itself in another undesirable behavior. Not to mention, this stress is magnified because now the source of the barking is associated with electrocution or olfactory assault.
There is fallout from the push of a button. Remote controls, smart speakers, smart locks, and smart thermostats mean that we don't have to move as much. Moving less may cause health decline. We have to replace steps lost from having a smart home with a concerted effort to move more.
We have to replace the one-size-fits-all push of a button approach with our dogs with best practices. Best practices include the good ol' ABCs. Antecedent Behavior Consequence.
What function does the problem behavior serve? What triggers the problem behavior and what happens as a result of the problem behavior? Solving this puzzle will pave a path for behavior modification and change.
For example, barking at the letter carrier. Sight of the letter carrier (A) triggers barking (B) the letter carrier leaves (C) and barking stops. The function of this barking is to make the letter carrier leave. However, the letter carrier was always going to leave regardless of the barking.
Best practices would include ruling out medical causes, management, enrichment, and a behavior modification plan. Cover windows with vinyl film, play white noise and calm music, and move the mailbox farther away (if possible). Increase the dog's daily mental and physical exercise. Counter condition the approach of the letter carrier by pairing the sight of the letter carrier with fabulous food.
Using best practices improves the overall well-being of the dog, helping him live his best life. There is no button for living your best life. That, you have to foster with patience, education, and healthy choices.