Bad Dog Behaviours

Are you a new dog parent who is worried about how to address their destructive behaviours? Are you someone with a dog who has recently started not to follow your commands? If you feel this way, you must know you are not alone.

Bad behaviour in a dog can be typical, depending upon the dog’s breed, genetics, and environment. These behavioural issues may range from something as small as continuous howling or sometimes as big as chewing everything they see.

Destructive behaviours in dogs can affect the well-being of any household. It is also a great challenge for the pooch owners. Let us discuss a few bad behaviours and what you can do to stop them. Whether you are a new dog owner or an old one, this guide will help you out in the best way possible.

1.    Constant Barking or Howling

Constant dog howls and barks can frustrate any dog home as well as the neighbours. When a dog barks, it is usually because of one or more of the following reasons.

• Fear
• Boredom
• Attention seeking
• Territorial instincts.

It is essential to identify the cause so that you may get rid of this bad behaviour. After identification, you must implement training techniques to help eliminate it. Removing the triggers will also help you out to a certain extent.

If your dog barks at passing people, you can close the curtains to block their view or restrict their view of passersby. Another thing that you can do is keep your dog occupied so that they don’t feel bored. Buy them interactive toys to keep them busy.

2.    Chewing and Destruction

Chewing is a habit that comes naturally to any dog. However, it may become destructive if your dog targets this behaviour toward a specific object. Again, you must identify the root cause to eliminate this bad behaviour. Some dogs have teething or anxiety problems or do not have chewing outlets where they can redirect their energies.

You can give your dogs chewable toys and rotate them so they don’t get bored. It is essential not to give them toys that resemble things that you don’t want them to chew. So, for example, if you do not want them to chew shoes, then avoid giving them a toy shaped like a shoe.

3.    Jumping On Strangers

You may notice your dog jumping and wagging their tail when they are excited. However, when they jump on other people in this state, it becomes a behavioural problem. While it may not harm anyone, it can be inconvenient for others, especially children or older adults. Some dogs may even hump humans. Don’t worry, this action is not a sign of a dog sexually attracted to humans.

To discourage this behaviour, train your dog to use a different form of greeting. Reward your pooches when they behave correctly in public. When your dog jumps up on you, do not give them attention.

This way, they will know that it is not something you appreciate. Give them treats when they meet someone and have all their four paws on the ground.

4.    Aggression And Nipping

Aggression and nipping are two behaviours that need prompt attention since they also affect the safety of your family, other people and other animals. Aggression can be a sign of fear or territorial behaviour, possessiveness of the owner, or even lack of socialisation. It is important to identify what triggers your dog to show signs of this bad behaviour.

Most of the time, this behaviour will require help from a professional or a dog therapist. They will suggest behaviour modification plans based on your dog that can help in positive reinforcement. These therapies also teach your dog how to control and channel these emotions in a positive manner.