Some dogs just hate our posties and delivery folk and it seems to be getting worse, with Australia Post reporting an average of 11 dog-related incidents a day over the last 6 months. It appears to be our little dogs causing most of the problem, though this varies from state to state. So, why are our dogs afraid of posties, and how can dog owners help?
Here are a few things that may be contributing:
Territorial Instinct: Dogs are naturally territorial animals. They see the area around their home as their domain and feel the need to protect it from intruders. A postal worker coming onto their property, often at the same time every day, can be seen as a repetitive intrusion that triggers their protective instincts.
Stranger Anxiety: Many dogs are wary of strangers. Postal workers, who typically do not have the opportunity to establish a friendly relationship with the dog, can be perceived as strangers each time they approach.
Inconsistency in Human Behavior: Dogs often rely on consistency and routine for comfort. Postal workers may vary in appearance, scent, and behaviour, making it difficult for dogs to become accustomed to them.
Lack of Socialisation: Some dogs may have missed out on socialisation with new people as pups, including those who appear to invade their space like delivery and trades people. This lack of socialisation can result in fear and aggression toward unfamiliar visitors.
Reinforcement of Negative Behaviour: If a dog barks or shows aggression towards a postal worker and the postal worker then leaves (as they complete their delivery), the dog may perceive this as a successful deterrent. This can reinforce the behaviour, making the dog more likely to repeat it in the future.
Understanding these factors can help dog owners work on desensitising their pets to postal workers, potentially through positive reinforcement training and gradual exposure.
Here are some tips to help with the process:
Desensitisation: Gradually expose your dog to the postal worker in a controlled manner. Start with the postal worker at a distance where your dog feels comfortable and slowly decrease the distance over time, rewarding your dog for calm behaviour at each step.
Counter-Conditioning: Change your dog’s emotional response to the postal worker by pairing the presence of the postal worker with something your dog loves. For example, give your dog a high-value treat each time the postal worker arrives.
Practice Obedience Commands: Teach your dog basic obedience commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it.” Use these commands to redirect your dog’s focus when the postal worker arrives.
Calm Behaviour: Stay calm and composed when the postal worker arrives. Dogs can pick up on their owner’s anxiety or stress, which can exacerbate their own fear or aggression.
Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats, praise, or their favourite toy whenever they remain calm as the postal worker approaches. This helps the dog associate the presence of the postal worker with positive experiences.
Controlled Interactions: If possible, arrange for controlled interactions between your dog and the postal worker. Have the postal worker give your dog treats from a safe distance, gradually decreasing the distance as your dog becomes more comfortable.
Barrier Methods: Use physical barriers like a baby gate or a leash to prevent your dog from approaching the door or gate when the postal worker arrives. This can help manage your dog’s behaviour while you work on training.
Consult a Professional: If your dog’s fear or aggression is severe, consider consulting a professional dog trainer or behaviourist. They can provide tailored guidance and strategies to address your dog’s specific needs.
Regular Socialisation: Increase your dog’s exposure to various people and situations in a controlled and positive manner. Regular socialisation can help reduce fear and anxiety toward strangers in general.
Consistency: Be consistent with your training efforts. Ensure that all family members and anyone who interacts with your dog follow the same training methods to avoid confusion and reinforce positive behaviour.
By employing these training techniques, you can help your dog develop a more positive and relaxed attitude toward postal workers and other visitors, which is good for you, your dog and your local postie!
