How to Address Behavioral Issues In Your Canine
01 May 2010
Owning a dog is one of the most rewarding experiences a person can enjoy. The bond between owner and pet grows over the course of years, and strengthens with time. Many owners even consider their canines to be an extension of their family. And those who remain single find a lasting companionship with their pooch that is irreplaceable.
Having said that, dogs can develop behavioral tendencies that drive their owners crazy. It’s worth noting that nearly all such issues can be resolved through desensitization training and positive reinforcement of acceptable behaviors. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of 4 common canine problems that can leave you growling in frustration.
Tip 1 - Digging
Your pooch might start digging for many reasons. Boredom can lead to trouble when he begins looking for ways to entertain himself. The bugs and roots he can discover by digging up the dirt will provide him with a distraction. He might also dig if the weather is making him hot and he lacks shade. The uncovered soil feels cool and relaxing to him. And of course, he might dig in order to hide bones and other possessions.
Tip 2 - Soiling
Puppies will urinate and defecate in inappropriate places until they are properly housebroken. That is expected. However, older dogs will occasionally do the same, even after having been successfully housebroken in the past. Sometimes, it occurs as a result of feelings of anxiety. Other times, it’s done to mark territory (acceptable when done outdoors). Still other times, adult canines do it as a submissive trait.
Tip3 - Jumping On People
Jumping is often misinterpreted by owners as an excited greeting their dogs give them. In truth, it can also be seen as an act of dominance.
When your canine was a puppy, he likely jumped on his littermates and mother until they taught him that doing so was unacceptable. If you adopt your dog as a young puppy and fail to curb the behavior, it can devleop into a recurring problem. If you do not take steps to modify his behavior, he might gradually infer that his place in the pack (i.e. your household) is the same as your own. That makes curbing his jumping even more difficult.
Tip 4 - Excessive Barking
Every dog barks. Aside from whining or howling, it’s the only way they can audibly express their emotions to those surrounding them. However, if barking becomes constant or excessive, if can quickly become an issue - for you and your neighbors.
It’s important to understand the reasons your canine barks. He might do it to warn intruders away from his territory. He might do it to get your attention. He might also bark out of sheer boredom, barking give him something to do. While it can be nerve-wracking, excessive barking can be resolved with training and patience.
The companionship you enjoy from your dog will last throughout his life. Even though he may develop behavioral issues that can drive you crazy, those behaviors can be modified with the right approach. And that keeps the friendship you share with one another alive.
