Dog Behavior Training
Dogs will be dogs


Common dog problems are just dogs doing what dogs do... barking, digging, jumping etc.  Dog Behavior Training is necessary to curb these natural instincts or we would have chaos in our homes if a dog just did what it wanted or doing what comes naturally.

Small Dog Breeds Cavalier King Charles Puppies


Many small dog breeds can be yappers and this can become a problem for the owner when the neighbours in the apartment next door complains.  Many types of dogs love to dig and your once neat and tidy garden is now just a minefield of holes and sand, can make even the most loving dog owner frustrated. Dog behavior training will help you identify, the majority of the dog behavior training issues being discussed here.  Most are due to boredom and lack of exercise and may be sorted out with basic dog training.

  • Barking

You may be delighted that your dog is barking, believing them to be good watch dogs. This may be true as most dogs will bark at strangers approaching your home, this is a natural instinct to protect their territory. What is not acceptable is when your dog barks at every moving thing and sound.  Not only intolerable to you but also the entire neighbourhood.  

Some types of dogs are more prone to barking, such as the  Miniature Schnauzer known to be the best small dog breed as a guard dog or  Yorkshire Terriers which do make good alert dogs.  The  Boston Terrier Breed for example rarely barks.  You need to establish why your dog is barking.  Is it seeking attention? Is the dog alone? If you have not yet chosen your dog breed and need a dog that does not bark (a lot) check out the most well known  Quiet Dog Breeds.

When doing dog behavior training be aware of his needs.  He may be alone for hours therefore before you leave so make sure your dog has a full tummy, and some playtime or a walk.  Leave a radio on and provide your dog with a comfortable bed with some chew treats.  Never give your dog attention while he is barking, wait for your dog to be quiet before you give him praise and love.  Try  Citronella Dog Collars a highly effective, safe and humane method in controlling barking. 



  • Jumping up

Your new puppy is so cute jumping up with a wagging tail, however, as the puppy gets older it is not so cute and visitors will not appreciate their clothing being torn by sharp claws.  Dog behavior training includes the Basic Dog Training  skills you need to teach your precious friend the important commands.  The Sit Command is the most important one.  Every time your dog starts to jump us, be firm and say "sit!".  Remember to give praise when your dog gets it right.  Each time you allow your dog to jump up without correction, you go back to step one. 

Your dog cannot understand why it can jump up on you but not on someone else, so consistency is key here.  Another method to curb jumping is to ignore your dog totally for 5 minutes when you get home.  Your dog should only be petted and loved when it is quiet and has stopped jumping.  Difficult to do when you have missed him as much as he has missed you, but it is only while you are training your beloved pet.  When he no longer jumps up, you can pet him and love him the minute you get home!

  • Biting

Puppies have a natural instinct to bite anything and everything.  Unfortunately their tiny teeth are razor sharp and can cause lots of damage and even scarring.  Once again, the dog must not be given any attention while biting, a sharp "no" is essential to let the dog know the behavior is unacceptable and if necessary time out, to re-enforce the message. 

Give your pet lots of safe "doggy approved" toys to chew on to relieve the natural instincts and do not allow your sweet angel to chew on your old shoe as does not know the difference between that and your new shoes.  His toys are the only things he is allowed to chew on.  An older dog must never be allowed to bite, under any circumstances. Very firm action must be taken if an older dog shows intent to bite for any reason.  A professional dog trainer should be consulted in the event you suspect you cannot control your dog.

  • Digging

Many dog breeds which fall under our small dog breeds list find digging irresistible due to the nature of their breeding.  The main reason for digging is boredom.  If you play regularly with your dog, and include your dog in household activities, and do not leave your dog outside for an extended period of time, you will rarely have a digging problem.  Puppies will naturally dig more as they need to fulfil their natural instincts and they do grow out of this habit of "gardening".  Dog behavior training requies patience, it is part and parcel of owning a puppy.

  • Separation Anxiety

Many types of dogs are prone to this, due to the strong bond that they form with their owners;and visa versa!  Lap dogs are constant companions and cannot tolerate being "abandoned" by their owners.  A quick fix solution, is to not make a big deal about leaving home.  Don't set up your dog for your departure, make it as low key as possible.  Not only your departure but your arrival back home.  Many experts suggest totally ignoring your dog for 5 minutes before leaving and 5 minutes after coming back home.  Thereby do notmaking a fuss at all about coming or going.

Leave your radio on, or the television, so your dog does not have total silence in your absence.  Another solution is to keep your dog occupied for the time immediately after your departure with a chew stick or snack so that he won't even notice you have left.  Ensure your beloved pet has a really comfortable bed to sleep in as he will be happier alone when he is snug and content.



Other dog behavior related Articles:

Pack Behavior - Training ABC  

Basic Dog Training - Education is Key

Puppy Potty Training - Your first Gift to your Dog

Dog Poop Eating - What's for Desert

Dog Wetting - Pleased to meet You!

Return from Dog Behavior Training to Dog Behavior Modification


Dog Separation Anxiety offers some valuable advise on this common problem particularly with our pets who hate to be alone.

Dog behavior training should start the minute you bring your puppy home and continue throughout his life. 

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