If your pet is approved, it will usually come with terms and conditions of that approval. Things to do with both yours and its behaviour. So what can you do to improve your chances of getting a dog approved, and what to do if you receive a notice of a complaint?
It is important to both pet owners and their fellow strata residents that dogs are a good fit, just like their human counterparts, in a scheme.
It is critical for a dog to be able to live in a strata scheme that they are socialised, preferably when very young. This means attending classes with other dogs, so they learn how to behave around both other people and other dogs. Even better if they can also visit with others (eg at a café or a friends place) where they will interact with other dogs.
It is not a good idea to have, and one should not need, a guard dog in strata. These will tend to be aggressive by nature. It is highly likely your scheme will not allow such an animal (see our previous blog on breeds that are not likely to be approved) no matter how docile it may be around you, its master.
It is important that your animal knows not to bark when it is inappropriate, and not to jump up on people. No matter how friendly, generally people are not happy for any animal, no matter how small to jump on them. Not everyone has had good post experiences with dogs or are use to engaging with them. Some may have had no experience and be fearful as a result. No child or parent wants a dog in their child’s face, licking it! Whether you are walking the dog through the common area, or having a guest to your unit, your pet should be well behaved towards those they do not interact with regularly.
Even later in life it is possible to train a dog - with consistency (and this is the critical issue - constant reinforcement of the rules) not to jump up or bark. It is all down to how willing you are to put in the time and effort upon each instance of a breach.
For barking, spraying the dog with a water on it’s face (not too close up) should provide incentive to stop. The dog will quickly learn this unpleasant result of their bad behaviour. There are also options at very good pet shops as to things you can purchase to ensure each bark is met with the suitable and appropriate deterrent.
It is even more important to reward good behaviour, a smile and a “good girl/boy” with a pat, or the occasional treat is much better than a scolding as far as motivating your pet.
If you are struggling to make a change in your pets behaviour seek input from your vet, or someone who specialises in behaviour matters for dogs which may help you understand how to best work with your pet to effect change.
Whilst the choice of animal has much to do with it, most of it comes down to your training of it. You will be rewarded with a quiet existence, by your dog not barking, and strata not pursuing you, if you put in the effort to train so you have a well-behaved pet.
If you would like to discuss the above content, please give us a call at (02) 93899 599 and stay posted for further helpful tips on living with a pet in a strata scheme.