Dog Behavior Problems and Their Solutions

Just like with humans, your dog will treat you the way you allow him to. The biggest difference is that dogs don’t have as much capacity to discern right from wrong as humans do. They only follow whatever works for them.

If your dog starts exhibiting bad behaviors, it is up to you to take charge and try to correct those behaviors. If you let it go on for long, you are likely to end up getting frustrated. Although it takes hard work to teach your dog how to behave, it pays off in the end.

Here are some dog behavior problems and their solutions:

1. Aggression

Even when a dog’s aggressive behavior is subtle, it can still pose a danger to the people who interact with it. So if you see any signs of aggression when walking your dog or reaching for his collar, it’s important that you find a solution before it escalates. Some of the steps you can take include evaluating his diet, and not rewarding negative behavior. Also, set limits and avoid responding emotionally to any transgressions.

2. Digging

Habitual digging is one of those canine instincts that are almost impossible to shut down. The easiest way to deal with it is to find a spot where your dog can dig freely without causing too much damage. Find ways to encourage him to dig at that spot. For example, you can bury something and have him dig it out. Once he finds the item, you can reward him by praising him.

3. Too much barking

One thing you should know about barking is that it is something that most dogs enjoy doing. Don’t shout at your dog in anger when he barks as this will only cause more barking. Rather than get aggravated when your dog barks try to teach him to only bark on command. Use a specific word to order him to bark and a different one to tell him to be quiet. Use encouraging words when your commands are followed.

4. Begging

This one is not very easy to cure. The best way to deal with a dog that keeps begging is to put him in his crate when you are about to start eating your meal. Alternatively, you can confine him in a separate room with a chew toy to keep him occupied. If he starts begging when you confine him, stay strong until you are done and only release him when he is quiet. When it comes to feeding him, make sure you do it at the right time and with proper proportions.

5. Chewing

Every dog needs to chew. So if yours is creating a mess around the house with his chewing, avoid letting him roam free while he is in the house. You may also want to provide him with safe chew toys which can be bought at Pet Clever to keep him busy. In most cases, he will be content with the toy you provide. If he doesn’t, try a few others until you know what he likes.

In order to be effective at finding solutions for your dog’s behavioral problems, it is important that you learn as much about him as possible. Understanding your dog makes it much easier to solve common problems and guide him. Remember, all dogs are not the same. What works for one will not necessarily work for another.

 

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