Common Behavioral Issues in Dog

Dogs are fun-loving creatures and form an integral part of our lives. Without them, our life is incomplete. We love them so much that it’s hard to part with them. While we strive towards boosting the relationship with our furry pals, it is essential to communicate with them for better understanding. For building a stronger bond, communication is key and for that, the importance of getting accustomed to your pal’s behavior plays a pivotal part.

Different Types of Behavioral Problems in Dogs

There are numerous types of behavior a dog can exhibit. While most behavioral issues are harmless or simply annoying, the ones that are destructive or risky are the ones that aren’t normal and needs addressing. Let us a look at the common behavioral issues in dogs.

1. Barking

Almost all breeds of dogs tend to bark and they do so, for various reasons. Excessive aggressive barking is not good especially when you’re living in a neighborhood and hence, figuring out the reason behind your pal’s barking is critical. A bark could possibly be that your buddy wants your attention. It could also mean he’s guarding the house while the doorbell rings. In such situations, it is important to talk with him and calm him down instead of losing your cool.

2. Biting

Such a habit develops in dogs when they were once puppies. When young, the only mode of interacting with others was simply by just biting. Though biting comes naturally, it is crucial to cease your pal from doing so at a younger age to avoid problems in the future. Thus, the next time you catch your buddy biting, just give him a piece of your mind (be gentle though).

3. Chasing

A dogs’ instinct will urge him to chase moving objects, be it a person running or throwing a ball. The two examples just mentioned are two different types of chasing. While chasing a person is generally an aggressive behavior, running after a ball is the opposite. Dogs love chasing and remain a necessity in every dog’s life but make sure to control your pal’s chasing antics. It could possibly prove costly.

4. Chewing

Chewing is another behavioral issue that develops right at the beginning of your dog’s life. In fact, chewing is essential in the development of your canine’s teeth. While chewing on shoes and furniture should be forbidden, allow him to nibble on chewable toys because, at the end of the day, the habit of chewing gradually diminishes as your furry friend grows older. So let him chew to his heart’s content. But make sure to observe what he is chewing.

5.Digging

While digging is an outdoor activity, you may have noticed your canine digging indoors too. Dogs dig for numerous reasons such as to hide something, out of boredom, scratching the couch before plonking themselves, etc. This is a highly common behavior in dogs and occurs usually during nap time or at night. If this habit bugs you, seek professional assistance

6.Growling

You may have noticed your dog letting out a loud growl when you get closer to him while he is having his meal. This happens because it triggers your dog that someone is getting near him to steal his food. To overcome such a behavior, make your pal eat his food off a bowl you are holding. This will bring to his notice that the human hand isn’t a threat to his meal.

7. Licking

When your pal licks your face, it is a sign that he is communicating with you. Licking signifies that your buddy is bestowing upon you his love and affection. Bizarre as it may sound, licking strengthens your relationship with your munchkin. Also, not to forget, if you notice your pal excessively licking his body, be sure it is some sort of infection and needs to be adhered to as soon as possible

8. Panting

Panting is a behavior associated with the climatic conditions or after a long solid run or play time. While in most cases, a dogs’ pant generally means he is tired and needs to cool himself down, it could also be due to pain. Thus, it is essential to keep him fully hydrated. If you suspect your pal panting in a troubled way, do not hesitate to consult a vet.

9.Scooting

Seeing a dog dragging himself on the floor is known as scooting and is a highly common behavior in dogs. Such a sight may seem funny to (your) eyes, but trust us, your pal doesn’t like it a wee bit. An irritating sort of feeling, that’s what scooting is all about. The possibility of your dog scooting is of the fact that there must be something bothering him in the anus or there’s a high chance the anal sacs are full and requires expressing. Whatever may be the reason, contact your local vet

10. Whining

Whining, which is also known as a dog’s way of crying, is a form of communication. It is generally a slow and continuous howl, which is a way of wanting something from their pet parent. If a dog happens to successfully get what he wants by whining, he may continue to do so to get his way. Hence, to bring an end to this conundrum, ignore the whining which is of less importance.

The above ten behaviors are very common in dogs. While some of them are very much needed for the development of your pal’s mental and physical health, it is essential to control the ones which need controlling. Seek professional help, if required.