Common Dog Behavior Problems: Most experienced dog owners are familiar with common dog behavior problems, but some may wonder why dogs exhibit these behaviors. An understanding of the most common dog behavior problems is the first step to solving and preventing them.
10 Common Dog Behavior Problems
Chasing
A dog’s desire to chase moving things is simply a display of predatory instinct. Many dogs will chase other animals, people, and cars. You can take the following steps to prevent disaster:
- Keep your dog on a leash at all times (unless directly supervised indoors).
- Train your dog to come when called.
- Have a dog whistle or noisemaker on hand to get your dog’s attention.
- Stay aware and watch for potential triggers, like joggers.
Barking
Most dogs bark, howl and whine to some degree. Excessive barking is considered a behavior problem. These are the most common types of barking:
- Warning or Alert
- Playfulness/Excitement
- Attention-seeking
- Anxiety
- Boredom
- Responding to Other Dogs
Chewing
Chewing is a natural action for all dogs; it’s just a part of the way they are wired. The most common reasons dogs chew are as follows:
- Puppy Teething
- Boredom / Excess Energy
- Anxiety
- Curiosity (especially puppies)
Digging
Diggingfor a dog is a matter of instinct. Certain breeds, like Terriers, are more prone to digging because of their hunting histories. In general, most dogs dig for these reasons:
- Boredom or Excess Energy
- Anxiety or Fear
- Hunting Instinct
- Comfort-Seeking (such as nesting or cooling off)
- Hiding Possessions (like bones or toys)
- To Escape or Gain Access
Separation Anxiety
Signs of true separation anxiety include:
- Dog becomes anxious when owner prepares to leave
- Misbehavior occurs in the first 15-45 minutes after owner leaves
- Dog wants to follow owner around constantly
- Dog tries to be touching owner whenever possible
Urination and Defecation
Inappropriate urination and defecation are among the most frustrating dog behaviors. If no medical cause is found, the reason maybe one of the following:
- Submissive/Excitement Urination
- Territorial Marking
- Anxiety
- Attention-seeking
- Lack of proper housebreaking
Begging
Begging is a bad habit, but many dog owners actually encourage it. Dogs beg because they love food. When you teach your dog that begging is permitted, you are sending the wrong message.
Jumping
Puppies jump up to reach and greet their mothers. Later, they may jump up when greeting people. Dogs may also jump up to exert dominance. A jumping dog can be annoying and even dangerous. Jumping up is often attention-seeking behavior, so any acknowledgment of your dog’s actions provide a reward!
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The best method: simply turn away and ignore your dog. Do not make eye contact, speak, or touch your dog. Go about your business. When he relaxes and remains still, calmly reward him. It won’t take long before your dog gets the message.
Biting
DOG ‘NIPPING AT YOUR HEELS Dogs bite for reasons that can be traced back to instinct and pack mentality. The motivation to bite or snap typically comes from the following:
- Fear or Defensiveness
- Protection of Property
- Pain or Sickness
- Dominance Assertion
- Predatory Instinct
Aggression
Dog aggression is exhibited by growling, snarling, showing teeth, lunging and biting. Reasons for aggression are basically the same as the reasons a dog will bite or snap, but overall canine aggression is a much more serious problem.
Remember to check with you vet if you suspect your pet is injured.