One in five dogs in Hong Kong is suffering from behavioral problems brought about by confined living or as a result of being sold even before it has been weaned. Behavioral problems may be cured and, while the process is costly, it is cheaper than running up medical bills through dog bites, according to experts.

Private veterinarian Kristina Franke, originally from Germany, said it was quite a shock when she found some of the pets in Hong Kong are "indoor" dogs.

 "I had never heard of an indoor dog until I came to Hong Kong, dogs need to be taken out and given exercise," Franke said. Her view was supported by Society for Abandoned Animals executive officer El Chan Suk-kuen who said problems are also the result of pet shops putting up puppies and kittens for sale sometimes even before weaning.

Many owners are not aware of the root of the problems and point accusing fingers at their pets or even abandon them. According to official figures, one in eight families in Hong Kong keeps a pet at home but 7.6 percent, or nearly one in every 12, eventually dumps the animal. Reasons given range from losing their fondness for the pet, fed up with having to deal with animal droppings and lack of space as the animal grows.

Franke and Chan said most behavioral problems in pets may be fixed by modification therapy. Unlike dog training, the therapy seeks to show pets what owners consider correct behavior by enhancing understanding between the owner and pet. It also sometimes involves medication, for instance some drugs may mellow a dog that might have anxiety problems that would lead it to bite.

 "Behavioral modification is beyond the conventional way of sending commands to the pets. It helps owners and their pets better understand each other. Animals would feel happier that way rather than simply taking orders from their owners," Chan said.