One-on-One Customized Correction for Problem Behaviors in Companion Dogs

Seongdong-gu Operates 1:1 Customized Free Behavior Correction Program for 40 Problematic Dogs... Individual Consultations with Animal Behavior Experts Provide Analysis and Solutions for Aggression, Separation Anxiety, and Other Issues

Customized Behavioral Correction for Pet Dogs

[Asia Economy Reporter Jongil Park] Seongdong-gu (Mayor Jeong Won-oh) is operating a ‘One-on-One Customized Behavior Correction Program for Companion Dogs’ for households struggling with problem behaviors of their companion dogs.

In the era of 10 million companion animals, as the number of households raising companion dogs increases, so does the number of people complaining about problem behaviors of their dogs. Problem behaviors in companion dogs are not just an issue for the dog owners but can lead to conflicts with neighbors, safety issues such as dog bite accidents, or social problems like the occurrence of abandoned animals.

Accordingly, the district conducted a one-on-one companion dog behavior correction course for a total of 50 households over three months from June to August. Through two hours of education per household, guardians received individual consultations with animal behavior experts to analyze the causes of problem behaviors such as aggression and separation anxiety and received solutions.

The satisfaction level of the education participants was high, and even after the application deadline, inquiries flooded in, showing strong support from companion dog households.

The district will operate the ‘One-on-One Customized Behavior Correction Program for Companion Dogs’ again in the second half of the year. From the 19th to November 8th, applications will be accepted online on the Seongdong-gu Office website, and 40 selected households will receive one session of education each in November and December, with schedules coordinated between the dog owners and animal behavior experts.

The education is free of charge, and anyone in the region who is struggling with problem behaviors of their companion dog and has completed animal registration can apply.

Hwang Jeong-hyun, who participated in the previous education, said, “I adopted a stray dog and brought it home, but the dog caused trouble, which worried me and caused difficulties with neighbors. This education was much needed, and I was glad to receive it free of charge from the district office. I learned in detail about the causes of problem behaviors and how to improve them. It is encouraging that the district office is starting many projects related to companion animals.”

In addition, the district operates the nation’s first free consultation office for companion animals to spread a proper animal welfare culture and resolve conflicts among residents caused by companion animals. It also conducts various animal welfare-related policies and projects such as companion dog walking manners education, a pet etiquette campaign with honorary animal protection monitors, and video contests.

Jeong Won-oh, Mayor of Seongdong-gu, said, “Recently, Statistics Korea newly included provisions about companion animals in the Population and Housing Census for the first time. This shows that the number of companion animal households is rapidly increasing and interest is growing, but it is also true that social problems and resident conflicts have increased accordingly. We will strive to spread a proper companion culture by implementing various companion animal policies so that companion dogs, their owners, and non-owners can all enjoy a happy life together.”