Behavior Modification Protocols Flashcards

A dog lunges at strangers on leash but is calm when off-leash in a yard. Which protocol best addresses this context-specific reactivity?

Answer: Systematic desensitization combined with counter-conditioning on leash

Systematic desensitization paired with counter-conditioning changes the dog's emotional response to strangers specifically in the triggering on-leash context.

What is 'trigger stacking' and why is it clinically significant in behavior modification?

Answer: Accumulation of stressors that lowers a dog's threshold for reactive behavior

Trigger stacking occurs when multiple stressors accumulate, lowering the dog's threshold so that a minor trigger causes a disproportionately large reaction.

During a desensitization session, the dog begins yawning, lip-licking, and turning away. The trainer should:

Answer: Reduce the stimulus intensity and allow the dog to decompress

Yawning, lip-licking, and gaze aversion are calming signals indicating stress; the trainer must reduce stimulus intensity to stay below the dog's threshold.

Which of the following best describes 'operant counterconditioning'?

Answer: Teaching a dog to perform an incompatible behavior in the presence of a feared stimulus

Operant counterconditioning trains the dog to perform a specific, incompatible behavior (e.g., sit) when the trigger appears, replacing the fear response with a trained response.

A dog has been conditioned to associate the crate with punishment. Which approach is most appropriate to reverse this association?

Answer: Begin classical counterconditioning by delivering high-value treats near and inside the crate

Classical counterconditioning replaces the negative emotional association with the crate by pairing the crate's presence with high-value rewards.

What is the primary goal of a 'behavior interruption' in modification protocols?

Answer: To redirect the dog's attention before or as the behavior begins, allowing reinforcement of an alternative

Behavior interruption redirects the dog's attention away from the trigger at the earliest signs, creating opportunity to reinforce an incompatible or alternative behavior.

A certified dog trainer is working with a dog showing resource guarding. Which protocol component should be introduced FIRST?

Answer: Trading exercises where the dog learns to drop items for higher-value rewards

Trading exercises build a positive association with the trainer approaching resources, establishing trust before more advanced approaches are introduced.