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It’s common for dogs to exhibit and develop behavioral issues, whether due to genetics, breed or environment. Thankfully, there are ways to eliminate your pup’s unwanted habits and improve your connection.
Here are seven common behavioural problems and actionable tips to address them.
1. Sound Sensitivity
Does your dog react fearfully to unusual, loud and high-pitched noises? Chances are they have sound sensitivity. Falling objects, ringing phones and traffic noises can cause distress. While other dogs quickly move on after hearing something, one that’s sound-sensitive may find it difficult to recover from the initial reaction.
What you can do: Play soft, calming sounds in a room with your dog. Increase the volume very slowly until you see signs of distress. A reaction may range from twitching of ears to shivering. Once your dog starts reacting, leave the sound at that volume for a few minutes.
2. Destructive Chewing
While commonly considered normal behaviour, excessive chewing can quickly become problematic if your dog destroys your valuables. Puppies do this as a way to relieve pain caused by growing teeth. Chewing among older dogs is a way to keep their teeth clean and jaw strong.
What you can do: Dog-proof your home. Keep valuables out of your pet’s reach until they know how to control their chewing habits. Provide your furry friend with inedible chew bones and toys and keep buying the ones they prefer.
If you catch your dog chewing on your stuff, distract them with a sharp noise. Ensure to give them plenty of exercise so they can channel their energy elsewhere.
3. Separation Anxiety
Your dog may exhibit destructive or disruptive behaviour when left alone. For instance, your dog may lick furniture to acquire your scent and temporarily reduce separation distress. Other signs include urinating, defecating, digging, escaping, and pacing back and forth in straight lines.
What you can do: Ensure your dog remains preoccupied when you leave. You can give treats containing melatonin or L-theanine or a flavoured chew toy. Take your dog for a walk before you go out so they can exercise, urinate and defecate. Lay out recently worn clothes so your scent can provide comfort while you’re away.
If you suspect your dog is suffering from severe separation anxiety, consider desensitization exercises and dedicated training. In extreme cases, medication may be required. Visit your pup’s veterinarian so you’re guided accordingly.
4. Begging
You may adore the puppy eyes you see when eating or preparing dinner, but it’s considered a bad habit. Begging can contribute to weight gain and digestive issues. It may be hard to resist that cute, longing look, but you must remind yourself that table scraps are not treats.
What you can do: Before eating, instruct your dog to go to a place where they can’t see you. If necessary, put them in a separate room. Give your pup a treat after you finish.
5. Pulling On The Leash
This behaviour gets your dog to where they want to go. It can be a struggle, especially if your pup has always done this. However, you can break the habit if you’re consistent.
What you can do: Try not to pull your dog into place since their immediate reaction will be to pull right back. Reinforce a more disciplined walk by providing praise or offering a treat. Stop walking when your dog pulls on the leash. You can practice this in a quiet space without many distractions.
6. Barking
There are many ways canines vocalize to communicate. They may howl, bark and whine. While these are all completely normal behaviours, excessive barking can be a problem. Dogs bark for many reasons — when they hear other dogs do it, to gain attention and when someone’s approaching their territory.
What you can do: Create a circumstance that will cause your dog to bark. Allow them to bark three to four times before saying “quiet.” Remember to speak calmly and clearly. Give your dog a treat every time they listen to what you say.
7. Aggression
Aggressive behavior could mean various things and includes growling, showing teeth, biting and lunging forward. Responsible dog owners must know their pets can show any signs of aggression, regardless of history and breed.
What you can do: Take note of all situations when your dog becomes aggressive. More often than not, an underlying medical complication may be the cause. Visit your veterinarian to rule out conditions that could worsen your pup’s behaviour.
Help Out Your Pup Today
Consistency and patience are essential when it comes to addressing these behavioral issues. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to a veterinarian. Help your dog be the best they can be so you can enjoy each other’s company to the fullest.
About The Author
Oscar Collins is the managing editor at Modded, where he writes about cars, fitness, the outdoors and more. Check out @TModded for regular updates!
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