5 Common Dog Behavior Problems Solutions

Table of Contents (Hover)

2. Chewing Destructively

Problem: Chewing is natural, especially in puppies (when teething), but it becomes an issue when it involves furniture, shoes, or wires.

Probable Causes:

• Hunger – If a dog is consistently hungry, they may chew on objects to satisfy their hunger.
• Boredom – Dogs that are left alone for long periods without adequate stimulation may turn to chewing as a way to occupy themselves.
• Anxiety – Separation anxiety, noise anxiety, and other forms of anxiety can lead dogs to chew.
• Training Issues – Dogs that have not been taught appropriate behaviors may chew on inappropriate items.
• Lack of Exercise – Dogs that don’t get enough physical and mental exercise may turn to destructive chewing to release pent-up energy.
• Play and Exploration – While normal play can involve chewing, excessive destruction can indicate that the dog needs more supervised play.

Solutions:

• Puppy-proof the home and remove tempting items.
• Manage Anxiety – If your dog’s chewing is related to anxiety, consider strategies like desensitization, counter-conditioning, and professional help as a last resort.
• Provide plenty of appropriate chew toys.
• Redirect chewing immediately when caught and praise when chewing the correct item.
• Exercise and mental stimulation to reduce anxious or bored chewing.
• Use bitter-tasting sprays on items they shouldn’t chew.

3. Jumping on People

Problem: Jumping up is usually a greeting behavior, but it can be dangerous or unwanted.

Reasons for dog’s Jumping:

• Attention-Seeking – Dogs may jump to get attention from their owners or visitors. This is a behavior that often elicits a response.
• Excitement or Joy – A dog might jump out of excitement or happiness when greeting their owner or a familiar person.
• Natural Instinct – Dogs may jump to get closer to people, to lick their face or show affection.
• Potential for Aggression – In some cases, jumping can be a sign of fear or anxiety, and it is important to observe the dog’s body language to rule out aggression.

Solutions:

• Ignore the behavior—no eye contact, talking, or touching until all four paws are on the floor.
• Reward calm greetings (sit = petting or treats).
• Teach an alternative behavior, like “sit” or “place” when guests arrive.
• Be consistent—everyone in the household should respond the same way.
• Use a Leash – A leash can help control the dog during greetings and prevent jumping. This is done by placing the leash on the floor and your foot with 6 inches of leash on the floor. When guests enter the house, this will help self-correct the dog’s jumping behavior.
• Provide Enrichment – Be sure your dog gets enough exercise, and mental stimulation can help reduce their need for attention.

4. Pulling on the Leash

Problem: Dogs naturally want to explore, but pulling makes walks stressful and unsafe.

Reasons for Pulling:

1. Their Desire to Explore – Dogs are curious and want to explore their environment, often wanting to reach interesting smells, sights, and other dogs or people.
2. Frustration – Leashes can be a source of frustration for dogs, as it limits their movement and freedom to explore.
3. Learned Behavior – If a dog has been rewarded for pulling (getting where they want to go), they may continue pulling to achieve the same result.
4. Over-Excitement or High Energy – Over excited dogs or have some pent-up energy, may be more likely to pull on the leash.
5. Leash Pressure – Some dogs naturally “lean in” or strain forward when they feel pressure on their collar or harness, which leads to pulling.

Solutions:

• Use a front-clip harness or head halter to reduce pulling power.
• Start with short low distraction walks in quiet areas to help your dog focus on you.
• Practice “stop and go” or “be a tree”—stop walking when the dog pulls, go only when the leash is loose.
• Teach “heel” and reward with treats and praise when walking nicely.
• Use positive reinforcement and praise your dog when they walk nicely beside you. Reward them with treats, praise and toys.
• Keep training sessions short and positive.

5. Separation Anxiety

Problem: Some dogs panic when left alone, leading to barking, destruction, or accidents.

Symptoms of Separation Anxiety:

• Urinating and Defecating – Some dogs urinate or defecate when left alone or separated from their owners.
• Barking and Howling – When the owner leaves for work or shopping, the dog may bark or howl.
• Chewing, Digging, & Destruction – Some dogs chew or dig on objects, door frames, or windowsills, dig at doors, or destroy household objects when their owners are away for any length of time.
• Escaping
• Pacing

Development of Separation Anxiety:

• Change in Schedule – An abrupt change in schedule of the owner can trigger this behavior.
• Change in Residence – Moving to a new residence can trigger this behavior.
• Change in Household Membership – The absence of a household member, due to death or moving away, can trigger this behavior.

Solutions:

• Gradually increase time alone using short departures and returns.
• Create a safe, calm space with a crate or quiet room.
• Leave interactive toys or treat puzzles to distract.
• Avoid dramatic goodbyes or greetings.
• In severe cases, consider working with a certified trainer or behaviorist.