How to Manage Your Dog’s Behavior Concerns
20 Jun 2009
Understanding Your Dog’s Behavioral Problems
Dogs exhibit many behaviors that leave their owners scratching their heads in confusion. Whether it’s barking, digging, nipping, or a number of other annoying activities, canines do things that seem odd to us. However, by understanding why they do such things, owners can learn to modify such behaviors.
Below, we’ll discuss several behavioral problems that can frustrate owners, their guests, and their neighbors. I’ll explain why your pooch may be doing some of the things she’s doing so you can take steps to curb inappropriate behaviors.
Chewing
Dogs chew for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, they’re anxious. Other times - especially in the case of puppies - they chew because they’re teething. Still other times, they simply become bored or restless. They do it to work off excess energy.
If your canine limits her chewing to a chew toy, or Bully Sticks there’s little harm in it. If no chew toys are present, everything in the house is a potential chew toy, including shoes, furniture etc. When you physically see your dog chewing on inappropriate objects, may sure you inform them. Take away (or remove her from) the item on which she’s chewing and give her a Odorless Bully Stick in its place.
Excessive Barking
First, it’s important to realize that your dog barks as a way of communicating. While it can become frustrating if she does so excessively, owners should understand that there may be a valid reason for the behavior.
That said, canines often bark excessively for a number of reasons that are inappropriate. For example, they may be bored or excited. The barking could be caused by other pets near by. Many times, your dog just wants to attract your attention.
To discourage the excessive barking, make sure your dog receives plenty of exercise and attention each day. When bored your dog’s behavior issues can increase because of pent up energy. Also, avoid encouraging her barking by giving her attention when she does it. Instead, clap sharply to let her know that her behavior is unacceptable to you.
Begging
Dogs love food, even if they’re not hungry. Given the opportunity, they’ll continue eating as long as someone gives them something to eat. The problem is that owners encourage begging each time they provide a taste from the dinner table. Remember, your pooch learns by repetition. When it comes to food, she learns quickly. When your dog is rewarded when they beg, they will learn this behavior and deem it natural.
You can discourage the begging behavior putting the dog into another part of the house during meal times.
The Value Of Obedience Classes
Most behavioral issues can be curbed by enrolling your dog into obedience classes. If you train them as a puppy, they will learn what is acceptable and what is not acceptable behavior and the training will “stick”.” If you enroll her as an adult, the training will be effective, but she’ll probably need periodic classes as a reminder of what constitutes appropriate conduct. In the end, a well-trained, well-behaved dog makes a more pleasant companion.
