SCOUT - GOLDEN RETRIEVER (LONG COAT) DOG FOR ADOPTION

Description

Dog Breed: Golden Retriever (long coat). Please note that we can not guarantee the age, expected weight or breed of any animal. What we provide is our best estimates based on our experience and the information provided by the our medical partners. If breed and eventual size are of great importance we suggest looking into a breed specific rescue or adopting a full grown animal. Unless otherwise noted, ALL animals are fostered and available for adoption on Long Island, NY. Behavioral Assessment for Scout (Golden Retriever) Name: Scout Breed: Golden Retriever Age: 2 years old Behavioral Concerns: Reactivity towards small animals, possessiveness over toys/food Overview: Scout is a golden retriever with a generally friendly demeanor but has shown a few behavior issues that need attention, primarily related to interactions with small animals and his possessiveness of toys & food. Specific Observations: 1. Reactivity Toward Small Animals: • Behavior: Scout shows signs of discomfort or agitation around small animals, such as cats or small dogs. This could manifest as attacking, growling, or attempting to chase them. • Potential Causes: This behavior may stem from a high prey drive, lack of early socialization with smaller animals, or previous negative experiences. • Recommendation: Introduce Scout to smaller animals gradually in a controlled environment, focusing on positive reinforcement when he remains calm. Consider working with a trainer for safe exposure exercises to reduce reactivity. 2. Possessiveness with Toys: • Behavior: Scout displays possessive tendencies when it comes to toys, especially during interactions with other dogs. He may guard his toys, growl, or refuse to share. • Potential Causes: Possessiveness can arise from competition for resources in a multi-pet household or a learned behavior where Scout associates toys with comfort or reward. • Recommendation: Implement “trade-up” training, where Scout is taught that giving up a toy results in a more desirable reward. Avoid taking toys away suddenly, as this could increase his possessive tendencies. Structured playtimes where Scout is not overwhelmed by other dogs could also help reduce anxiety around sharing. Temperament: Golden Retrievers are generally known for their friendly and easygoing nature. While Scout’s behavior deviates slightly from this breed standard, with proper training and patience, he has the potential to improve his interactions with small animals and his willingness to share. He may benefit from an environment that provides consistent training, clear boundaries, and positive socialization. Next Steps: Consult a Trainer: Seek out a professional dog trainer or behaviorist who can provide personalized training strategies to address Scout’s specific issues. 2. Establish Consistency: Set clear and consistent rules for Scout regarding his behavior around toys and small animals, ensuring all family members and caregivers follow the same protocols. 3. Focus on Positive Reinforcement: Reward Scout’s calm behavior when around small animals or when he willingly gives up a toy. This helps him build positive associations with these situations. Conclusion: With the right approach, Scout’s reactivity towards small animals and possessiveness over toys can be managed effectively. Patience and structured training are key to helping him become more comfortable and cooperative in these scenarios.

• Physical Attributes

  Coat Length:	Long
  Grooming Needs:	Moderate
  Altered	Yes

• Behavioral Characteristics

  OK with Dogs:	No
  OK with Cats:	No
  Energy Level:	Moderate
  Activity Level:	Moderately Active
  Exercise Needs:	Moderate
  Obedience Training:	Has Basic Training
  Other:	Not Good With Small Dogs Leash Trained Crate Trained Housetrained Good in a Car Likes to Fetch Likes to Play with Toys Likes to Be in Your Lap

• Personality

  Personality Characteristics

  Obedient Playful Affectionate Eager to Please Intelligent Gentle Goofy

• Additional Information

  Was the Dog Found	No
  Other	Up-to-date on Vaccinations