Is your dog barking nonstop, chewing up your stuff, or jumping on every guest who walks through the door? You’re not alone! Most pet parents run into a few behavior issues, especially during the puppy stage. But with a little patience and the right approach, you can correct unwanted behaviors and build a stronger bond with your dog.
Here’s how to handle some of the most common dog behavior problems—and what to do if your dog’s bad habits are getting out of hand.
Jumping on People
Jumping might seem cute when your dog is a tiny pup, but it can quickly become a problem as they grow. Dogs often jump to get attention or show excitement, but for guests (especially kids or seniors) it can be overwhelming and even dangerous.
The Fix:
Stay consistent with training. Don’t reward your dog’s behavior by giving them attention when they jump. Instead, tell them to sit or lie down, and reward calm behavior with treats or praise.
Excessive Barking, Howling, and Whining
Dogs vocalize for many reasons: boredom, anxiety, excitement, or to alert you to something. But excessive barking, howling, or whining can be stressful for everyone.
What You Can Try:
- Give your dog plenty of exercise and mental stimulation throughout the day.
- Redirect their energy with puzzle toys, scent games, or obedience training.
- Identify triggers, like the doorbell or other dogs, and work on desensitization.
- Teach a “quiet” command and reward your dog when they stop on cue.
If the barking continues, behavior training with a professional can help you uncover the root causes and develop a plan to manage it.
Destructive Chewing
Chewing is normal—especially for puppies—but when your dog targets your shoes, furniture, or baseboards, can become a problem. Not only is it frustrating for you, it can also be dangerous for your dog if they swallow something harmful.
How to Help:
Make sure your dog has plenty of safe toys to chew on, and never punish them for chewing on something they shouldn’t because they won’t be able to connect the dots. Techniques like crate training and redirection can work wonders, especially when you’re not around to supervise.
Aggression and Play Biting
Aggression in dogs can show up as growling, lunging, snapping, or biting. While some signs of aggression stem from fear or anxiety, others may be related to frustration or possessiveness. Puppies also tend to nip during play. Although it may seem harmless, if the “play biting” continues into adulthood, it can become a bigger problem.
What to Do:
- Don’t encourage rough play that involves biting.
- Redirect nipping behavior with chew toys or tug toys.
- If your adult dog is showing signs of aggression, consult a professional trainer or your vet to rule out underlying medical issues.
When to Get Help
If your dog’s unwanted barking is escalating, if they start to become aggressive, or their behavior just isn’t improving with consistent training, don’t give up. Dog behavior problems aren’t a reflection of any failure on your part—they’re just a sign that you and your pup need a little extra support.
At Anasazi Animal Clinic, we believe in strengthening the bond between you and your dog. We’re here to help you with everything from training advice to veterinary checkups that help rule out any underlying health problems. Contact us today to schedule a visit so you can talk with one of our veterinarians about the best next steps.
Photo by Kai Pro on Pexels used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use 5/4/2025