Table 3.

Summary of behaviour modification plan, used in treatment of cases

AT HOME	Interact with dog only at your initiative and when the dog is relaxed.
	Praise the dog when it is relaxed.
	Gradually teach your dog to stay calm and to be alone i.e. have it sit, lie down, or stay in places as you move away while gradually increasing the distance and time from the dog.
	Give departure cues at times other than departure.
	Praise calm behaviour if appropriate.
BEFORE LEAVING	Show complete indifference to the dog for 20 to 30 minutes prior to going out.
	As you leave, you may give a special toy or a treat to distract the dog and remove the item on return - make this something special, like a food-filled treat, so that your leaving is associated with something positive.
	Do not physically or verbally interact with the dog just before leaving.
WHEN RETURNING	Ignore the dog’s excessive greeting until he is quiet and relaxed.
	Interact with your dog only on your initiative and only when he/she is quiet.
	Reward calm behaviour.
	Do not reprimand dog for destructive behaviour or for urinating or defecating in the house.