It is frustrating to deal with dog behavior problems—especially without the help of dog obedience training Houston classes. Perhaps your new puppy won’t stop chewing your shoes to shreds or barking non-stop as you leave for work. Either way, you’ve come to the right place.
This post covers the top seven most common issues you may encounter during your dog training Houston process.
Ready? Let’s get started!
Why Do Dog Behavior Issues Occur?
Dog behavior issues often arise due to a combination of factors such as genetics, environment, socialization, and training. Some breeds are predisposed to certain behaviors, while others may develop issues due to neglect, inconsistent training, or trauma. It’s essential to understand the root causes behind these problems to create an effective plan for addressing them.
A well-socialized and properly trained dog is less likely to display behavioral issues, while a dog that has been neglected or lacks mental stimulation is more prone to problematic behaviors. Understanding the reasons behind these issues is the first step toward resolving them.
The Importance of Early Intervention for Dog Behavior Issues
Addressing dog behavior issues as soon as they emerge is critical. Early intervention helps prevent problematic behaviors from becoming ingrained habits that are harder to change. For example, a young dog displaying minor signs of aggression or anxiety can be trained more effectively than an older dog with deeply rooted behaviors. Early training not only makes the process easier but also ensures a better relationship between the dog and its owner.
To curb dog behavior issues early on, start training puppies with positive reinforcement techniques and make sure they receive sufficient socialization.
Separation Anxiety: Managing This Common Dog Behavior Issue
Separation anxiety is one of the most prevalent dog behavior issues, especially in breeds known for their strong attachment to their owners. Dogs with separation anxiety may bark excessively, destroy household items, or attempt to escape the house when left alone.
To manage this, owners should gradually acclimate their dogs to being alone by leaving for short periods and slowly increasing the time apart. Interactive toys and calming treats can help distract and comfort your dog when you’re away. Additionally, providing a comfortable, safe space like a crate with familiar items (blankets, toys) helps them feel secure.
Obsessive-Compulsive Behaviors in Dogs
Some dogs develop obsessive-compulsive behaviors such as tail chasing, excessive licking, or constant pacing. These behaviors are often signs of stress, anxiety, or boredom. Dogs that lack mental and physical stimulation may resort to these repetitive actions as a coping mechanism.
To address obsessive-compulsive dog behavior issues, provide plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation through interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and regular walks. Additionally, create a routine for your dog, as predictability helps reduce anxiety. If the behavior persists, consulting a vet or a professional trainer may be necessary to rule out medical causes.
Leash Reactivity: Overcoming a Common Dog Behavior Issue
Leash reactivity is a dog behavior issue where dogs become aggressive or overly excited when they see other dogs, animals, or people during walks. This can be stressful for both the owner and the dog, leading to difficult and unpleasant walks.
To manage leash reactivity, focus on desensitization training by exposing your dog to the triggers in a controlled environment. Reward calm behavior and gradually increase the proximity to the trigger over time. Training tools such as front-clip harnesses can also provide better control during walks. Consistent positive reinforcement will help teach your dog that calm behavior is rewarded.
Fear-Based Aggression: Addressing One of the Most Dangerous Dog Behavior Issues
Fear-based aggression occurs when a dog feels threatened and responds aggressively as a defense mechanism. This dog behavior issue can be directed toward people, other animals, or even objects. Common signs of fear-based aggression include growling, snapping, or barking when approached by strangers.
To address this issue, focus on desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques. Gradually introduce your dog to situations that trigger fear, pairing these exposures with positive reinforcement, like treats or praise. Over time, your dog will associate the previously feared situation with a positive outcome, reducing the aggressive response.
Socialization is also key—exposing your dog to a variety of people, animals, and environments helps them become more comfortable and less fearful in different situations.
Socialization: Preventing Future Dog Behavior Issues
Proper socialization is one of the most effective ways to prevent future dog behavior issues. Dogs that are well-socialized from an early age are more comfortable in a variety of environments, making them less likely to develop anxiety, aggression, or fear-related behaviors.
Puppy socialization classes, trips to the dog park, and exposure to different sights, sounds, and people all contribute to a well-rounded and emotionally stable dog. It’s important to make these experiences positive—using rewards and praise when your dog reacts calmly will encourage more relaxed behavior in the future.
The Role of Exercise in Reducing Dog Behavior Issues
A lack of physical exercise can contribute to a wide range of dog behavior issues, from destructive chewing to excessive barking and hyperactivity. Many dogs, especially high-energy breeds, require plenty of daily exercise to remain mentally and physically stimulated.
Regular exercise, such as long walks, playtime, or even agility training, can help burn off excess energy and prevent behavioral problems. Engaging in mentally stimulating activities, such as puzzle games or obedience training, is equally important for reducing frustration and anxiety that may lead to unwanted behaviors.
Diet and Dog Behavior Issues: Is There a Connection?
Believe it or not, a dog’s diet can impact their behavior. A poor-quality diet lacking in essential nutrients can contribute to behavioral problems such as hyperactivity, aggression, or lethargy. Dogs fed low-quality food with artificial additives and fillers may exhibit more behavioral issues compared to dogs on a well-balanced diet.
Ensuring that your dog receives a balanced, nutritious diet rich in proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins can support both physical health and emotional well-being. Consult with your veterinarian to choose the best diet for your dog’s breed, size, and activity level.
1. Destructive Chewing
Dogs—like babies, always seem to have something in their mouths. Whether it’s your freshly-cleaned underwear laying on the floor, or a roll of tissue paper sitting by the toilet—new puppies love to chew.
“Chewing is a highly destructive behavior that can test your patience and cost a lot of money in the meantime.”
The problem with chewing is that it’s a highly destructive behavior that can test your patience and cost a lot of money in the meantime. There are a few reasons puppies chew:
- Boredom
- Teething
- Curiosity
- Anxiety
How to fix it? One way to prevent this behavior is by giving your dog lots of chew toys. When you’re away from home, either keep your pup in a crate or keep valuables out of reach.
If you catch your furry friend chewing on something, say “no,” and replace whatever’s in his mouth with a chew toy.
2. Biting
Dog’s bite for many reasons. Some include:
- Feeling threatened or nervous
- Sickness or pain
- Fear
- Defensiveness
- Predatory instinct
One thing’s for sure: Most dogs don’t bite to cause harm. Most do so out of instinct. Usually, dogs bite to protect themselves as an act of self-defense.
How to fix it? In such cases, owners can help. Proper training, socialization, and breeding methods are great tools for overcoming a biting canine. Adequate quality time and socialization with other animals and strangers are necessary.
3. Excessive Barking
There’s nothing quite as aggravating as a dog who barks, growls, or howls every chance they get. While barking can alert you of suspicious activity in your backyard, excessive barking is a problem.
First thing’s first: Try to find out why your dog is barking. Since dogs can’t speak, they use barking to get what they want. Ask yourself these questions:
- Is my dog hungry?
- Has my dog gone potty recently?
- Is there a company at the front door?
Once you rule out any clear reasons for barking, the next thing to do is figure out how to solve the issue.
How to fix it? First, you need to figure out what situations make your pup bark. Then train accordingly.
For example, if your dog barks every time you grab your keys to leave, you can train him to feel comfortable in such situations. Next time you grab your keys, walk out the door for a few minutes—then come back. That way, your dog will stop associating the jingle of keys with you leaving. Make sense?
4. Digging
If you notice holes near your fence area, then digging may be to blame. This dog training issue is primarily breed-related. Because of this, research your breed to determine whether digging is a tendency. If your dog’s breed is prone to digging—thankfully—dog training Houston TX can help.
Tip: Give your furry friend a sandbox in the backyard that he can go to town in. Trust me, your fence will thank you later!
How to fix it? When you catch your dog in the act, say “no.” Then give him his favorite toy. Try your best to find him before or during the act, not after.
5. Aggression
In moderation, aggression can be a great way to ward off burglars. A growling dog in the backyard is an excellent way to reinforce that “Beware of Dog” sign posted on your fence.
However, aggression in everyday circumstances puts you and your loved ones into danger. Like biting, aggression is usually out of instinct when your dog is afraid or nervous.
How to fix it? If your dog becomes overly aggressive toward strangers, you may need to muzzle him in public. While his aggression is usually nothing more than a scare tactic, it can easily frighten those around you. To avoid excessive aggression, make sure you socialize your dog thoroughly with other dogs and strangers. You can also enroll in our dog obedience training Houston to control its aggression.
6. Begging
Begging for food at the dinner table is one of the most common behavior problems people deal with daily. As cute as those puppy dog eyes are, you must practice self-control and resist!
You may have read the children’s book “If you give a mouse a cookie,” growing up. If not, here’s the main idea:
“If you give a mouse a cookie, he’ll want a glass of milk.”
What does this quote by Laura Numeroff mean? Let me clarify…
If you give him a piece of steak, he’ll come back for the whole T-Bone!
How to fix it? Prevention is the best way to keep help your dog lose hope. As tempting as it is to give your pup some of your dinners—ignoring him is the best course of action. If he still begs, put him in his crate during mealtime.
7. Separation Anxiety
If your dog cries anytime you’re out of sight; he may have separation anxiety. While this behavior is more common for puppies, adult dogs can suffer from separation anxiety if you don’t resolve the issue.
How to fix it? Separation anxiety usually occurs when your pup doesn’t know you will come back. To help increase his confidence in you, start leaving your dog alone little by little. Start by leaving him alone for five to ten minutes. Over time, gradually increase how long you’re away from your furry friend.
Tip: It’s important to make your dog’s crate a safe space to help soothe their separation anxiety. Pack the crate with comfy fluffy blankets and your pup’s favorite toys for an added effect. You can also play relaxing pet music to help calm your dog while you’re away.
How Professional Training Can Resolve Dog Behavior Issues
If dog behavior issues persist despite your best efforts, enrolling your dog in professional training can be highly beneficial. Trainers use advanced techniques to address everything from basic obedience to more serious problems like aggression or anxiety.
Professional trainers often provide one-on-one sessions, group classes, or even board-and-train options where your dog stays with the trainer for intensive training. By working with a professional, you’ll gain valuable insight into your dog’s behavior and learn how to continue the training at home.
Premier Dog Obedience Training Houston at The Dog House Pet Salon
If you’re looking for high-quality dog obedience training Houston, The Dog HousePet Salon is the place to go! Our expert dog trainers are qualified to teach your dog how to sit, stay, heel, place, and respect the word ‘NO.’
We offer both Board & Train Camps and Private Lessons depending on the extent of your dog’s behavioral issues. The board & train camp is an effective training program complete with complimentary Doggy Day Care access for socialization and an exit bath and or groom options.
Contact us today at (713)-820-6140 to fix your pup’s behavioral issues once and for all.
How to Handle the 7 Most Common Dog Behavior Issues | The Dog House Pet Salon – Houston, TX