Dogs bring joy, loyalty, and companionship to our lives, but they can develop behavioral issues that can lead to a disturbing relationship with pet parents. Excessive barking, destructive chewing, and jumping on people are some of the most common behavioral issues in dogs that can make management difficult for pet parents. 

However, you can address these issues using the right techniques and even reach out to a professional for the same. This will also make things easier for your furry companion, and allow them to enjoy their lives to the fullest. This blog covers the most common behavioral issues in dogs and tips to address them. Explore more below.

1. Excessive Barking 

Barking is a medium of communication for dogs. However, excessive barking can be a result of boredom, fear, anxiety, and a desire for more attention. 

You can address this issue by focusing on what’s triggering them. Whether they are barking because of strangers, other dogs, or being left alone, pay attention to identifying it. You can train your dog and teach commands like “quiet,” followed by a reward. You can also offer mental stimulation with puzzle toys, take them for a walk, or exercise to reduce boredom and keep them engaged. We suggest seeing a canine behaviorist if excessive barking stems from anxiety and fear. 

2. Destructive Chewing

This is another common behavioral issue in dogs that can occur due to a lack of chew toys, teething (in the case of puppies), anxiety, or boredom. 

To address this issue, provide your furry companions with chew toys to redirect their energy. Keep your shoes, furniture, and other items that they are most likely to chew out of their reach. If you have an energetic dog, engage them in activities that reduce pent-up energy like increasing their playtime, or taking them for a long walk. 

3. Jumping on People

Jumping is typically a way of greeting people or grabbing attention

Address this behavior by ignoring them, or not giving them attention. Turn away until they are calm. You can also teach them other ways of greeting people or train them. And most importantly, don’t confuse them with mixed signals, and make sure that all family members, neighbors, and friends follow the same rules. 

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4. Separation Anxiety

If your dog feels distressed when left alone, they have separation anxiety. Destructive behavior, excessive barking, or whining are some symptoms of separation anxiety.

You need to address this behavior patiently and don’t get annoyed. Start leaving them alone for a short duration and then gradually increase it as they start getting used to it. Make sure that your dog has a comfortable space in your home with their favorite toys. You can also offer them calming chews to reduce their anxiety. If the issue still persists, seek professional help. 

5. Pulling on the Leash

This is the most common behavioral issue in dogs that typically stems from excitement or lack of leash training.

Enroll your dog in canine training where they can learn basic rules. Practice walking with a leash on in a place with less distractions. You must also use positive reinforcement when they walk calmly without pulling on the leash. You can also use the stop-and-go technique where you need to wait until the dog comes to your side and continue walking. 

6. Digging

A bored dog is most likely to dig and create a cool sport to lie down. They may also do it because of hunting instincts. 

Provide alternatives to your dog like creating a designated digging area in your backyard, or a sandbox filled with toys or treats they love. Monitor your pet’s outdoor activities and redirect them if they start digging. Keep them involved in activities that keep them engaged mentally as well as physically. 

7. Resource Guarding

Resource guarding is a behavioral issue where your dog can become very possessive of their toys, food, and other favorite items. 

The best way to address this behavior is to teach your furry friend the “leave it,” command and offer them a reward immediately when they follow it. You can also hire a professional trainer for canine training, and resolve this common behavioral issue in dogs.

Regardless of the behavioral issues, positive reinforcement is one of the most effective training techniques for dogs. It will resolve the majority of the behavioral issues in dogs. Reward-based methods teach them good behaviors and strengthen your relationship with them. Invest time and effort into training your pets. You may also seek professional help if required.