Every dog has a unique personality. It’s why we love them so much. But with these diverse personalities come behaviors that may be somewhat less than ideal from time to time.
Whether your pup gets a little too excited when meeting new people or your otherwise perfect pet occasionally treats your throw pillows like chew toys, these quirks are all part of the learning process. The good news? These behaviors are incredibly common and, with the right guidance, manageable.
Here are five common dog behavior issues that can be improved with patience, consistency, and a bit of help from professional training.
- Hopping Up to Say Hello
When a dog jumps up to greet someone, it’s usually out of excitement or affection, not mischief or bad behavior. They’re simply trying to get closer to your face! While it may seem sweet (especially in puppies), jumping and lunging can be overwhelming for guests or unsafe for small children.
With a bit of direction, however, dogs can learn calmer ways to show their enthusiasm, like sitting for attention or offering a paw instead of a pounce.
- Pulling on the Leash
Walks are supposed to be fun and relaxing for pets and pet parents alike. When your dog is dragging you down the street like they’re late for an important meeting, though, it’s not exactly a peaceful stroll. Leash pulling can stem from excitement or a lack of understanding about proper etiquette.
With practice, however, your dog can learn to walk calmly at your side, making outings more enjoyable for both of you.
- Barking Here, There, and Everywhere
Dogs bark to communicate. Plain and simple. It’s their way of expressing excitement, warning you of something unfamiliar, or seeking your attention. While completely natural, excessive or reactive barking (at the mailman, a passing car, or even the wind) can be challenging, to say the very least.
Teaching your dog when it’s okay to be vocal (and when it’s time to settle) can lead to a much more peaceful home environment.
- Not Coming When Called
“Come” is, by far, one of the most important skills a dog can learn. Some pups tend to get distracted by more interesting things (squirrels, anyone?), or simply don’t connect the dots between the cue and the reward.
Building reliable recall requires consistency, timing, and positive reinforcement. It’s well worth the effort, however, and can help to keep your dog safe, give them more freedom, and strengthen the bond between you.
- Boredom-Based Chewing or Digging
Chewed furniture or surprise craters in the yard are often signs your dog is looking for something to do. Puppies chew to explore their world (and soothe teething discomfort), while older dogs may dig or chew out of curiosity or to discharge extra energy.
With redirection, enrichment, and proper outlets for their instincts, your dog can learn more appropriate ways to stay busy.
How Paws & Play Pet Resort Helps
Is your dog displaying one or more of these common dog behavior issues? Don’t worry. It simply means they’re ready to learn. At Paws & Play Pet Resort, our professional dog training program is designed to meet your dog where they are and help them grow with confidence.
Our training benefits include:
- Goal-focused instruction.
- Positive reinforcement methods.
- Support with manners, social skills, leash etiquette, and more.
- Real-life learning in a safe, enriching environment
We also offer several flexible training options to suit your dog’s needs and your schedule.
Our popular Stay & Train program brings a boarding stay at Paws & Play and a customized, all-inclusive training curriculum together. Ideal for dogs of all ages, it’s designed to deliver lasting results in a short time.
Our Stay & Train experience includes:
- Private accommodations with cozy comforts.
- Multiple daily training sessions tailored to their goals.
- Playtime, enrichment activities, and daily treats.
- Daily wellness checks, fresh water, and regular potty breaks.
- Take-home exercises and helpful resources.
- Ongoing support to reinforce what your dog learns.
Our Play & Train program, on the other hand, is like a day school for dogs. Your pup will enjoy a full day of daycare fun and socialization, along with focused sessions with our experienced training specialists. It’s the perfect mix of play and progress.
Looking for a more social training environment? We also offer small-group training classes for puppy kindergarten and basic obedience to bring out the best in your dog.
Common dog behavior issues can be bewildering, but they don’t have to be a source of frustration. Contact our team today to learn more about our training services or to schedule an evaluation.