Does your dog bark excessively? Do you feel anxious to take your dog anywhere because of its erratic behavior? Is your dog aggressive? Behavioral problems in pets are a source of anxiety for pet owners.

Many of us adopt pets with the idea of having a best friend that is loyal. When we experience dog behavioral issues we become frustrated and even anxious with our furry companions. However, all is not lost. Understanding dog behavior problems and how to solve them can help to restore your faith in your pet.

Below, we discuss some of the most common issues and provide solutions.

How to Correct Behavioral Issues in Dogs?

Many pet owners confuse dog behavior problems with dog behavioral issues. There are pets that exhibit extreme behavior including aggression, extreme fear and severe anxiety. These are pets with behavioral disorders. These pets may even injure themselves in an attempt to escape or attack.

In many cases, these disorders occur as a result of learned behaviors, emotional responses to mistreatment, genetic predisposition and mental health issues. However, most pets simply have problems that can be easily solved.

Common Behavioral Issues and How to Solve Them

1. Barking

Barking is how dogs communicate. They bark when trying to alert us to things, when they’re anxious and even when they’re playing. Excessive barking, however, can be a problem.

This can be resolved by teaching them quiet or barking commands. Patience and consistency is required for success. It is also important to address any underlying issues.

2. Digging

Dogs like to dig. It’s a natural instinct. However, some breeds are more prone to this behavior than others. These include terriers. Others may dig as a result of various issues such as releasing excess energy, boredom, anxiety, trying to escape or seeking comfort.

You can solve this issue by resolving the underlying cause. For example, take your dog for longer or more frequent walks to release energy. Consider providing dogs with a sandbox where they can dig freely.

3. Chewing

We’re often asked questions like ‘how to stop a dog from chewing everything he sees?’ Chewing is a natural instinct in dogs. Many dogs chew when teething, anxious, bored or when they have excess energy.

Provide your dog with chew toys. Keep your dog in a restricted area when you’re not home and store personal items away.

4. Inappropriate elimination

Defecating and urinating is normal. However, when a trained dog is eliminated inside the home or in public places, it may be considered a behavioral issue.

If there is no underlying medical problem, your dog may be anxious, overexcited, territorial or require retraining. This habit requires serious behavior modification which often includes professional training.

5. Chasing

Chasing is a predatory instinct in dogs. Training can help deal with this behavior. You can also keep it on a leash at all times or use a noisemaker or whistle to get its attention.

6. Biting

Many dogs bite to explore their environment. It often isn’t a sign of aggression. Other reasons dogs bite include predatory instinct, fear, pain and defense. This issue can be resolved with proper training and socialization.

7. Aggression

Aggressive dogs exhibit behaviors such as snarling, growling or biting. If your dog is exhibiting aggressive tendencies be sure to consult with a professional dog trainer.

8. Jumping on people

This is a common way for dogs to greet people. However it can prove to be annoying or dangerous. This problem can be resolved through retraining. Teach your dog commands and be consistent.

Dog Training Services

Still wondering about how to correct dog behavior? At Anchor Up K9 Academy we believe that every dog deserves a chance. We don’t believe that there are bad dogs.

We believe dogs just need proper training and the right skills. We work with dogs of all breeds and sizes to help dogs and dog owners establish a better and stronger relationship. Contact us to learn more about our services and how we can help.

8 Common Dog Behavior Problems and Solutions