For many of us dog parents, our pups are like our kids. We adore them, we cuddle them, we feed them off our own plate… But sometimes, we let them get away with (almost) murder, simply because we can’t bear to discipline them.
Here are 5 dog behaviors that you should address quickly to make sure they don’t get out of hand and become a bigger problem!
Aggression
This is especially common in rescue dogs, but can pop up in others too. Typically, dogs display aggression when they feel threatened, but in some cases, it can go too far.
If your pooch is showing their teeth to every person who walks in the door, trying to protect you when there’s no need for protection, or guarding his food, it’s best to sort out this problem before someone gets bitten, or your dog gets hurt.
Solution: Check with your vet to rule out medical conditions. Working with a trainer is advisable, and use positive reinforcement instead of punishment to guide your dog towards better behaviors.
Excessive Chewing
While this may be annoying for pet parents who find themselves with a mangled table leg and half a pair of Guccis, excessive chewing can be a sign of anxiety. Chewing is an almost hypnotic calming action.
Some causes of stress could be separation anxiety, thunder, a change of environment, or nervousness about other animals. Of course, boredom could be another factor that leads to gnawing.
Solution: Get your dog their own chew toy to be their stress reliever. If you spot her chewing on something she shouldn’t be, replace it with her toy and give positive reinforcement when she switches.
Begging
This is a learned behavior that we taught them! Don’t be fooled into thinking that NOT giving them food means they’ll feel unloved – there are plenty more opportunities to love them that won’t be reinforcing bad behavior. Feeding your dog at the same time that you eat dinner could help.
Solution: Practice self-discipline! As hard as it may be, ignore your dog’s whines and redirect him to a spot away from the table. Give him positive reinforcement if he waits patiently by giving him a dog treat once you’re finished your meal – only if he’s truly been a good boy, though!
Separation Anxiety
You may never see the real effects of separation anxiety on your dog, but if you have an inkling that it’s a problem, it needs to be addressed immediately for the welfare of your pup.
If you are leaving or returning, don’t make a big deal out of it and act as normal. This will prevent your dog from exciting more and escalating anxiety!
Solution: Leave your dog with a chew toy to help calm their anxiety. Leave the radio on if you can. Give your dog something that smells like you to cuddle with.
Jumping on Guests
Often, this is simply a sign of excitement and love. It can be a problem for elderly guests and children, though, especially if you have a big dog!
Solution: Train your dog by turning away when he jumps on you. Teach him to sit, and only give him attention and love when he does. This will train him into displaying positive behavior in order to get the reward – love, and pats. Encourage guests to treat your dog the same way.
Conclusion
If you spot any sign of dog behaviors you should address quickly, don’t wait! You’ll have a happier dog and a happier family once these things have been sorted out. Remember – coming at these issues from a place of love is the best way forward.
Hi, I’m Jodie! I’m a spain-Moroccan writer with a passion for imagination, adventures, magic and stories with heart.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me for any questions, suggestions, comments or feedback.
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