Some dog behaviours are quickly labelled as bad or problematic without considering the message behind them.
Dogs often use actions, rather than words, to signal discomfort, confusion, stress, or unmet needs.
What appears as misbehaviour is frequently an attempt to communicate when other signals have gone unnoticed.
Ignoring these cues can lead to frustration on both sides and missed opportunities to help.
Understanding the intent behind these behaviours allows owners to respond with clarity rather than punishment.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from online sources.
Dog behaviour varies by individual, breed, age, health, and environment.
Persistent or sudden behaviour changes should be discussed with a qualified veterinarian or animal behaviourist.
Photos are for illustrative purposes only.
1. Excessive Barking At Everything
Constant barking can drive anyone up the wall, but your dog might be alerting you to something they find threatening or unusual.
Dogs have much better hearing than humans, so they could be picking up sounds you can’t even detect.
Sometimes, this behaviour signals boredom or a lack of mental stimulation.
Your pet needs activities that challenge their brain and tire them out properly.
Try providing puzzle toys, regular training sessions, or longer walks.
If the barking continues despite these changes, consider consulting a professional trainer who can identify specific triggers.
2. Destructive Chewing Around The House
Finding your favourite shoes in pieces is frustrating, but chewing often means your dog is dealing with anxiety or excess energy.
Puppies chew when they’re teething, but adult dogs usually chew when they’re stressed or under-stimulated.
Your pet might be telling you they need more exercise or that they feel anxious when left alone.
Separation anxiety is particularly common and manifests through destructive behaviours.
Provide appropriate chew toys and ensure your dog gets enough physical activity.
Gradually work on building their confidence when you’re away through short absences that slowly increase over time.
3. Digging Holes In The Yard
Your once-pristine lawn now resembles a minefield, but digging serves several purposes for dogs.
They might be trying to create a cool spot to lie down on hot days or burying items they want to save for later.
Some breeds were specifically developed for digging, making this behaviour particularly strong in terriers and hounds.
Your dog could also be bored and looking for something entertaining to do.
Create a designated digging area filled with loose soil or sand where this behaviour is allowed.
Bury treats or toys there to encourage your dog to use that spot instead of your garden.
4. Jumping Up On People
Nobody enjoys muddy paw prints on their clothes, but jumping is your dog’s enthusiastic way of saying hello and seeking attention.
In the canine world, face-to-face greetings are normal, so your pet is trying to get closer to your face.
This behaviour often gets accidentally reinforced when people pet the dog to calm them down.
Your dog learns that jumping equals attention, even if that attention involves being pushed away.
Teach an alternative greeting behaviour like sitting for attention.
Consistently ignore jumping and only reward calm behaviour with pets and praise to reshape this habit effectively.
5. Pulling Hard On The Leash
Walks become exhausting when your dog acts like a sled dog pulling you down the street.
This behaviour tells you that your pet is excited about exploring and hasn’t learned proper leash manners yet.
Dogs naturally walk faster than humans, and the outside world is full of interesting smells and sights they want to investigate immediately.
Your pet isn’t being stubborn but rather following their natural instincts.
Practice loose-leash walking by stopping whenever tension appears on the leash.
Only continue walking when your dog returns to your side, rewarding them for staying close throughout your outings.
6. Refusing To Come When Called
Calling your dog repeatedly while they completely ignore you is incredibly frustrating.
This behaviour often means your dog finds whatever they’re doing more rewarding than coming to you right now.
Perhaps past recalls have led to something unpleasant like ending playtime or getting a bath.
Your pet has learned that coming when called might mean the fun stops immediately.
Make recalls incredibly rewarding with high-value treats, enthusiastic praise, or favourite toys.
Never punish your dog after they finally come to you, even if they took forever, or you’ll make the problem worse over time.
7. Begging At The Table During Meals
Those sad puppy eyes at dinner time can be hard to resist, but begging tells you that this strategy has worked before.
Your dog has learned that persistence around the table sometimes results in delicious human food.
Even one family member occasionally sharing scraps can maintain this behaviour despite everyone else’s efforts to stop it.
Dogs are expert observers and know exactly who’s most likely to give in.
Feed your dog before your own meals and provide a comfortable spot away from the table where they should stay.
Consistency from every household member is essential for breaking this persistent habit.
