behavior problems in dogs

Most Common Behavioral Problems in Dogs

Behavioral problems are common in dogs. Generally most dogs are “good” – or they want to be good but they can exhibit bad behaviors.Dealing with behavior problems in dogs can sometimes make dog ownership difficult. Did you know that behavioral problems are the number one reason owners surrender their dog to a shelter or perform euthanasia?

To deal with common behavior problems in dogs, you must first understand the behavior. What is the reason your dog is doing the things he is doing? Sometimes it helps to seek the aid of a dog behaviorist to better understand and treat the situation.

Dog behaviorists are people who love dogs and study them to learn about their behavior. A dog behaviorist will try to find explanations for the dog’s behavior by examining his environment and his relationship with his owner. The dog behaviorist will help to identify the cause of your dog’s problems and work directly with you to teach you how to carry out the treatment plan successfully.

Today, more and more dog owners are turning to dog behaviorists for help with behavior problems in dogs. Many pet shelters also work directly with dog behaviorists to help them deal with problem pets who have been surrendered by their owners. By working with a dog behaviorist, many of these surrendered dogs will increase their chances of finding a new home.

What kind of training methods should you use to treat behavior problems in dogs? The most important thing to remember is that punishment doesn’t work. The key to treating behavior problems in dogs is to not allow your dog to be rewarded for bad behavior. Rewards can take the form of attention – good, or bad. So instead of yelling at your dog, give your dog the chance to succeed and reward him when he does. Positive reinforcement will eventually stop bad dog behavior, but it will take time and patience. Be consistent and address the problem every time you see it. The longer you let a problem go, the harder it will be to eventually correct.

If you are not quite sure how to handle the situation on your own, or if you are having continued issues, it may be time to seek out the help of a professional.
We put together a list of the most common “bad behaviors” and asked our well known and excellent dog behaviorists to address the issues and give you some advice.
Here is information on some common behavior problems in dogs. Click on the links below for some great and detailed information by our behaviorists.

We put together a list of the most common “bad behaviors” and asked our well known and excellent dog behaviorists to address the issues and give you some advice.

Here is information on some common behavioral problems in dogs. Click on the links below for some great and detailed information by our behaviorists:

Aggression in Dogs

Dominance Aggression

Dog Urine Marking

Excessive Barking

Fear Aggression By Dogs Directed Toward People

Dealing with Whining Dogs

Tip on Stopping Dogs from Jumping on People

How to Deal with a Chewing, Destructive Dog

How Can I Get My Dog to Stop Digging?

Nipping and Mouthing by Dogs

Dealing with Dogs that Run Away

Fear of Thunder, Sounds or Noises in Dogs

Inter-Dog Fear Aggression

Maternal Aggression In Dogs

Predatory Aggression

Territorial Aggression Toward People

Inter-Dog Territorial Aggression

Dealing with a Leash-pulling Dog

Aggression or Fear Based Behavior Problems in Dogs

Aggression in Dogs

Dominance Aggression

Fear Aggression By Dogs Directed Toward People

Fear of Thunder, Sounds or Noises in Dogs

Inter-Dog Fear Aggression

Maternal Aggression In Dogs

Predatory Aggression

Territorial Aggression Toward People

Inter-Dog Territorial Aggression

To learn more about dog behavior, go to our article Understanding Bad Dog Behavior.