Just like people, dogs have different personalities. The way a dog acts depends on how it’s been trained, where it lives, its breed, and things it has experienced in the past. Sometimes, dogs start to show behaviors that can be frustrating, like barking too much or chewing on furniture. These behaviors can be fixed once we understand why they happen and use the right steps to help the dog learn better habits.
Many dog behavior problems come from a few main reasons. Some dogs were never properly trained, so they don’t know what’s expected of them. Others might be scared of loud sounds, new places, or things that remind them of bad past experiences. Some dogs didn’t get to meet enough people or other animals when they were puppies, so they get nervous in social situations. Dogs also need to stay busy—if they’re bored or have too much energy, they might start acting out. And sometimes, a dog might misbehave because it’s sick or in pain. If your dog’s behavior suddenly changes, it’s a good idea to visit a vet and make sure there’s no health issue causing it.
One common problem is barking too much. Dogs bark to get attention, warn others, or when they’re scared. Some breeds bark more than others. To fix this, you should first figure out what’s making your dog bark. Teach your dog a “quiet” command, give it enough exercise, and use toys or puzzles to distract it. Never yell at your dog—it often makes the barking worse.
Another issue is chewing things they shouldn’t, like shoes or furniture. Puppies chew when they’re teething, but even older dogs chew when they’re bored or anxious. Give your dog chew toys, spray bitter-tasting stuff on things you don’t want them to chew, and keep them busy with play and walks.
Some dogs jump on people to say hello or get attention. This might seem cute, but it can be a problem. The best way to stop it is to ignore your dog when it jumps and only give attention when it’s sitting calmly. Teaching your dog to “sit” when greeting people helps a lot.
Separation anxiety is another big issue. Dogs are social animals and can get very upset when left alone. They might cry, destroy things, or even hurt themselves. To help with this, practice leaving them alone for short times and build up slowly. Leave toys that keep them busy and don’t make a big deal when leaving or coming back. In tough cases, calming music or special sprays may help.
Sometimes dogs act aggressively toward people or other dogs. This can be caused by fear, guarding food or toys, or not being used to others. Don’t punish aggressive behavior—it can make it worse. Instead, try to reward your dog when it stays calm and slowly help it get used to new situations. For serious cases, you should talk to a vet or dog expert.
If your dog digs holes in the yard, it might be bored, trying to stay cool, or just following instinct—some breeds love to dig! Make sure your dog gets enough exercise and maybe give it a special digging spot like a sandbox.
Many dogs also pull on the leash during walks. This happens when they’re excited or were never taught how to walk properly. Use a no-pull harness and stop walking whenever your dog pulls. Praise your dog when it walks nicely by your side. It takes practice, but it’s worth it.
To prevent these problems, start training your dog early. Use rewards like treats or praise when they do something good. Give them enough exercise every day and keep their minds active with toys and games. Let them meet other people and dogs so they learn to behave around others.
Sometimes, even if you do your best, your dog might still struggle. If your dog becomes aggressive, scared, or destructive despite your efforts, it’s time to get help from a vet, dog trainer, or behavior expert.
Remember, a well-behaved dog is a happy dog. They don’t act out to be bad—they’re just trying to show you what they need. With patience, love, and the right help, your dog can become a calm and happy part of your family.
🐶 Need help with your dog’s behavior? Click here to reach out to us at Dr. Hulk Veterinary Hospital.