Tier 2 — high yield
Canine
Behavior
Destructive Behaviors
Chewing · digging · escape attempts · distinguishing cause from effect
⏱ 2–3 min read · Topic 4 of 5
5
Practice Qs
3
Traps
Moderate
Exam freq.
—
Your status
Study step
Exam core — read this first
Context is everything → destruction when owner absent = SA; destruction when present = boredom/exploratory
Young dogs → normal exploratory chewing up to 6–9 months; redirect to appropriate items
Escape attempts → SA or fear; damage near exits/doors is classic
Board logic → ask when, where, and what before diagnosing
Key data
Context
Owner present vs absent
Determines etiology
Age
Puppy vs adult vs senior
Guides workup
Practice questions
A 2-year-old dog destroys the couch only when the owner is at work. What is the most important historical factor?
An owner finds their puppy chewing shoes and wants to know the best intervention. What should be recommended?
A 12-year-old dog with no prior history suddenly starts chewing baseboards. What is the most appropriate next step?
An owner rubbed their dog's nose in feces after house soiling. What should you explain?
Which medication is NOT appropriate as monotherapy for destructive behavior due to separation anxiety?