For every pet owner, it’s essential to understand your dog’s behavior, regardless of whether you’re planning to get a dog or already have one. Communicating effectively with your pet and comprehending their actions is crucial in ensuring a healthy and harmonious relationship.
Below are five typical dog behaviors, their meanings, and tips on correcting them when your dog misbehaves.
Barking
While barking is normal for dogs, excessive and uncontrolled barking can be problematic. To address this, you should determine the reason behind your dog’s barking, including warning, excitement, seeking attention, or response to other dogs barking. Then, use positive reinforcements to correct their behavior. For instance, ignore your dog when they bark excessively and reward them with attention and treats when it is calm and quiet. Consistency and patience are crucial to making this practical.
Biting
Biting and nipping are natural dog behaviors but can be dangerous if not moderated. To address biting, teach your dog bite inhibition or how to moderate the strength of their bite. Dogs may bite due to anxiety, fear, defensiveness, territorial tendencies, or predatory instinct. Proper training, chew toys, and socialization can help moderate biting.
Begging
While begging may seem endearing, it can lead to misbehavior, freedom, rowdiness, or even health complications. Set boundaries and teach your dog that begging is not okay. You can do this by telling your dog to go to their bed or somewhere away from the table where they can’t stare at you. If your dog follows this and remains in their place until everyone is done eating, give them a special treat.
Jumping Up
Jumping up in excitement can be fun, but it can also be dangerous for others. To stop your dog from jumping up, provide positive reinforcement by turning away from them when they do something you don’t like. Don’t make contact, and when they calm down, reward them. The key is to send your dog the right message.
Chasing
Chasing is a natural predatory instinct in dogs but can lead to dangerous outcomes. To prevent accidents, keep your dog on a leash outside if they’re not trained, train them to come when called, and train them to cross streets safely. Be aware of potential triggers like joggers and cars. Training helps with communication and ensures everyone’s safety.