Dog behavior problems are frequently misunderstood or improperly managed by dog owners. Whether you are new to dog ownership, thinking about getting a dog, or trying to address a challenging issue with your current dog, it’s essential to understand the most common behavior problems. A strong foundation in obedience training is crucial for preventing or effectively managing many of these issues.

Dog Behavior Problems, Part Two:

Inappropriate Elimination:

Inappropriate urination and defecation are highly frustrating dog behaviors that can cause damage to your home and make your dog unwelcome in public or others’ homes. It’s crucial to consult your veterinarian initially to rule out any underlying health issues. If no medical cause is identified, it’s essential to investigate the root of the behavior, which typically falls into one of the following categories:

• Submissive/excitement urination
• Territorial marking
• Anxiety
• Lack of proper house training

Puppies often engage in unavoidable inappropriate elimination, especially before 12 weeks of age. However, for older dogs, overcoming this habit often requires significant behavior modification efforts. With persistence, most adult dogs that are already potty trained can be taught to use “doggy doorbells” to signal when they need to go outside for a bathroom break.

Begging:

Begging is a detrimental behavior that many dog owners unintentionally promote. It can contribute to digestive issues and obesity in dogs. Dogs beg primarily because they enjoy food, but it’s crucial to distinguish between table scraps and proper treats. Providing food as a form of affection is not beneficial. Although it’s challenging to resist their pleading gaze, yielding “just this once” can lead to persistent issues over time.

Before you begin your meal, instruct your dog to go to their designated spot, ideally away from where they can watch you eat. If needed, place your dog in a separate room. If they behave well, reward them with a special treat once you and your family have finished eating.

Chasing:

A dog’s tendency to chase moving objects stems from its natural predatory instincts. This behavior may include chasing other animals, people, and vehicles, which can pose serious risks and consequences. While completely eliminating the urge to chase may not be feasible, proactive measures can be taken to prevent potential accidents and harm.

• Always keep your dog contained or on a leash, except when under direct supervision indoors.
• Train your dog to come when called.
• Keep a dog whistle or noise device readily available to attract your dog’s attention.
• Remain vigilant and watch out for potential stimuli, such as vehicles, runners, and wildlife.

Your greatest opportunity for success lies in preventing the chase from escalating. Consistent training throughout your dog’s life will help them prioritize focusing on you before reacting impulsively.

Jumping Up:

Jumping up is a natural behavior in dogs, often observed as puppies try to reach and greet their mothers. As they mature, dogs may continue to jump up when greeting people or when excited about something, like an object in someone’s hands. However, a jumping dog can be bothersome and potentially hazardous.

There are numerous techniques to curb a dog’s jumping behavior, yet not all are equally effective. Methods such as lifting a knee, grasping the paws, or pushing the dog away may yield results in certain instances. However, for most dogs, these actions can convey the wrong message. Jumping up is typically a way for dogs to seek attention, so any form of acknowledgment rewards the behavior instantly, reinforcing the jumping.

The most effective approach is to ignore your dog completely. If needed, walk away without making eye contact, speaking, or touching your dog. Carry on with your activities. Once your dog relaxes and stays calm, reward them calmly. With consistency, your dog will quickly understand the message.

Biting:

Dogs bite and nip for various instinctual reasons. Puppies bite and nip as a way to explore their surroundings. Mother dogs play a crucial role in teaching their puppies to control their biting strength and discipline them when necessary, which aids in developing bite inhibition. Owners frequently need to reinforce to their puppies that mouthing and biting are unacceptable behaviors by consistently teaching bite inhibition.

Apart from puppy behavior, dogs may bite or snap for multiple reasons. The inclination to bite or nip does not always stem from aggression; a dog might resort to such behaviors for various motivations.

• Fear.
• Defensiveness.
• Protection of property.
• Pain or sickness.
• Predatory instinct.

Any dog can potentially bite under certain circumstances perceived by the dog. Owners and breeders play a crucial role in reducing the likelihood of biting across all dog breeds through effective training, socialization, and responsible breeding practices.

Aggression:

Dog aggression manifests as behaviors like growling, snarling, displaying teeth, lunging, and biting. It’s crucial to recognize that any dog, regardless of breed or background, can demonstrate aggression. However, dogs with a history of violence or abuse, as well as those bred from aggressive lines, are more prone to displaying aggressive tendencies toward people or other dogs.

Certain dog breeds are often unfairly labeled as “dangerous” and prohibited in specific regions. However, this stigma is typically more related to the dog’s history than its breed alone. A dog’s environment significantly influences its behavior, and inherited aggressive traits can be present in dogs of any breed.

The causes of aggression align with the reasons why a dog may bite or snap, but aggression itself represents a more severe issue. If your dog displays aggressive tendencies, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian initially to rule out any underlying health issues. Subsequently, seek assistance from a skilled dog trainer or behaviorist. It’s essential to take decisive actions to ensure the safety of others around aggressive dogs.

If you believe your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian promptly. For questions regarding your pet’s health, always consult your veterinarian, who has examined your pet, understands their health background, and can provide the most suitable advice for your pet’s well-being.