Dog Behavioral Problems

This page provides links to individual pages on common dog behavioral problems, such as aggression in dogs, dog hyperactivity, excessive dog licking, barking, dog begging, and dog eating poop. It also talks about the importance of using positive dog training to correct such behavior problems.

Dog behavioral problems come in different forms and intensity. Sometimes the behavioral problems are minor and can be corrected quite easily by proper training.

However, some problems, such as dog aggression, can be so serious that owners are sometimes forced to give up the dog.

Solving behavioral problems in dogs, no matter what they are, can be done with patience, care, and love. However, it also takes time and a lot of commitment on the part of the owner - but you do not have to do it all by yourself. There is a lot of support that you can use to help you solve your dog's behavioral problems. Educate yourself, and if necessary, engage the help of a professional trainer or animal behaviorist.

The most important thing to remember about correcting dog behavioral problems is, never yell at your dog and NEVER use harsh punishment, such as beating, or products that are downright inhumane, such as shock collars. Using negative punishment will only aggravate your dog's behavioral problems. Negative punishment will also put extra stress and anxiety on the already troubled dog, making him all the more difficult to be trained. Finally, if you resort to negative and harsh punishment, you will never establish a warm, trusting relationship with your dog.

Below you can find links to pages on some common dog behavioral problems. You will find information on some factors contributing to the problems, guidance as to what can be done, and how natural remedies can be used to help address some of the problems.

Common Dog Behavioral Problems

Aggression in Dogs
Does your dog show aggressive behavior? Aggression in dogs is perhaps one of the most serious dog behavioral problems. Sometimes it is due to a lack of proper training, other times there may be an underlying physical health issue that is causing a dog to be aggressive. There are some natural remedies such as herbs, homeopathic remedies, and essential oils that can be used to help tame an aggressive dog!
Please read our page on Aggression in Dogs for more information.
Dog Hyperactivity
Many dog parents may think that their dogs are hyperactive; however, true "hyperactivity" in dogs is rather rare. It is a medical condition that requires veterinary attention. Improper diets, a lack of exercise, and poor training are all contributing factors to hyperactivity in dogs.
Read Hyperactive Dogs for more information on this topic.
Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Separation anxiety is another common dog behavioral problem. A dog with this problem cannot stand being left alone and can become very vocal and destructive - they can actually destroy furniture, the house door, and generally make a mess of the house while their owners are away!
Read our page on Separation Anxiety in Dogs to see how best to deal with this problem.
Anxiety in Dogs (Social / Noise Anxiety)
Besides separation anxiety, dogs can also suffer from noise or social anxiety. They may be very scared of loud noises such as thunder or fireworks (noise anxiety), or they may become aggressive when they are around some dogs or people because they feel nervous and anxious (social anxiety). Positive training is effective in helping dogs to overcome these two dog behavioral problems.
Visit Anxiety in Dogs for more information.
Excessive Dog Licking
Does your dog's incessant licking drive you crazy? While excessive licking in dogs may be caused by physical discomfort (e.g. itching, pain), some dogs lick out of stress or boredom. If the licking is not stopped, chronic skin lesions may result (a condition known as acral lick dermatitis).
Visit our page on Excessive Dog Licking to see how to stop your dog from licking!
Poop-eating (Coprophagia)
Dogs eat poop (a condition known as coprophagia) for quite a few possible reasons but, generally speaking, can be pinned down to three main categories - malnutrition, underlying health problems, and behavioral problem.
If your dog indulges in poop eating, be sure to read our page on Why Do Dogs Eat Poop for ways to deal with this stinky business.
Excessive Dog Barking
Excessive dog barking can be a problem for the dog parents and a nuisance to their neighbors. Problem dog barking comes in a variety of forms, each with its own triggers and solutions. Therefore, to stop your barking dog, you need to first identify the reason that causes him to bark.
Click over to our page on Excessive Dog Barking to read more on this topic.
Dog Begging
Sorry to say this but, if your dog begs, it is not his fault but yours! Yes - dog begging is a learned behavior - If trained properly, a dog will not beg (either for food or attention) at all since he knows it will bring no result. So how can you "untrain" your dog so he will leave you alone while you are enjoying your dinner? Visit our page on Dog Begging to get your answer!