Common Behavioural Problems in Dogs and How to Handle Them

Dogs are intelligent and curious animals that express their emotions and needs in different ways. They are happy, joyful, playful, and occasionally a tad mischievous too. While many of their behaviors are adorable, some can be challenging for pet parents to manage, especially for those people who are first-time pet parents. To help you out, we’ve come up with this handy guide about the most common behavioural issues in dogs. 

Here’s A Look at The Commonly Observed Behavioral Issues in Dogs. 

Aggression  

Aggression is one of the most reported behavioral concerns in dogs. This term includes a variety of actions triggered by specific situations or stimuli. Dogs often display aggression to assert dominance, protect their territory, or handle social challenges.  

Signs of aggression usually escalate, starting with subtle signs like freezing or becoming unusually still, which can progress to growling, barking, lunging, and eventually biting. Pet parents may misunderstand these warning signs, leading to undesirable incidents, especially when in public and around other people.

If your dog shows aggression, observe what triggers this behavior and consult a professional. Experts can identify the root cause, understand your dog’s intentions, and guide you in managing and reducing aggression effectively.

Excessive Barking

Barking is a natural way for dogs to communicate, whether to express joy, alert you, seek attention, or respond to a perceived threat. However, continuous barking can become a nuisance, especially in public, when home alone, or during travel.

To address this issue, identify why your dog is barking and what they’re trying to convey. For territorial barking, reducing your dog’s instinct to guard their space can help. Teaching commands like “quiet” and rewarding calm behavior can also work well. Overenthusiastic dogs can be trained to sit calmly when visitors arrive, making greetings more peaceful. With consistency and patience, you can help your dog learn when barking is and isn’t appropriate and reduce such instances as they grow.  

Destructive Chewing  

Chewing is natural behavior for dogs, especially puppies. They explore their environment with their mouths and may chew out of boredom, anxiety, or during teething. However, when chewing damages household items, it becomes a problem. Remember, physical punishment is counterproductive and can worsen the problem. Approach the situation with patience and positive reinforcement.

To manage destructive chewing:  

• Dog-proof your home by keeping valuables out of reach.  
• Provide safe chew toys to redirect their energy.  
• Use deterrent sprays to discourage chewing on furniture or other items.  
• Address underlying causes, such as anxiety or frustration, through exercise, mental stimulation, or professional help.

Howling

Howling is another way dogs communicate. It can signal their presence, respond to loud sounds like sirens, or express emotions such as loneliness or anxiety.

For dogs that howl due to separation anxiety, gradually accustom them to being alone by increasing their alone time in small increments. If your dog howls at external noises, desensitization training can help them become less reactive. Persistent howling might require the expertise of a professional behaviorist to determine its root cause and implement an appropriate solution.

Humping and Mounting

Humping and mounting are normal behaviors in dogs, often related to maturation or playful interaction. Neutering can reduce such behaviors, but it doesn’t always eliminate them. Dogs may continue to hump as a response to a stimulus, as a compulsive habit, or simply during play.

If your dog reacts aggressively when stopped from humping, consult your vet to rule out medical issues like a urinary tract infection (UTI). Behavioral specialists can also help address compulsive mounting. Managing this behavior is crucial, especially in social settings or during pet travel, to prevent discomfort for others.  
While occasional humping isn’t a significant problem, excessive or compulsive mounting may indicate an underlying issue. Since no two pets are exactly alike, you should always seek professional advice for aggressive or persistent behavior.  

Behavioral problems in dogs are common and often manageable with the right approach. Addressing these issues early prevents them from escalating and ensures smoother social interactions, public outings, and travel experiences. If your dog exhibits challenging behavior, don’t hesitate to seek help from a vet or animal behaviorist. With patience, training, and understanding, you can guide your furry friend toward better behavior, ensuring a happier life for both of you.