Dogs are wonderful pets, but they’re also a huge responsibility. Before you add a dog to your household, you should understand common behavioral issues that your dog may display. These may differ depending on the age, breed, and history of the dog. The good news is that you can deal with them and help yourself and your dog to get along wonderfully.
Hyperactivity
Hyperactivity is a common problem with dogs, but it isn’t a difficult one to solve. Most of the time, a hyperactive dog is a bored dog. Dogs have different activity levels, but they all need exercise.
If your dog is hyperactive, consider the last time you took it for a walk or a run. You may need to increase the frequency of your walks and runs or lengthen them. You can also stimulate your dog mentally by training them to do tricks, although this will be difficult with an already hyperactive dog.
Destructive Chewing
Every dog has a desire to chew. It keeps their teeth and jaws healthy and entertains them when they get bored. Chewing in itself isn’t a problem, but it can become destructive if they chew the wrong things.
Puppies chew more than most dogs because they are often teething and chewing soothes the pain and discomfort of this process. However, dogs can also chew because they’re frustrated or anxious.
The best way to deal with a dog who chews a lot is to provide more appropriate toys and treats. The chew treats supplied by Superior Farms, for example, are healthy and will keep your dog entertained.
Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is a bigger issue than a simple behavioral problem, as it’s to do with your dog’s mental health. An anxious dog will usually display behavioral problems though, such as destructive chewing or excessive barking.
Dealing with separation anxiety is difficult for both you and the dog. However, calming your dog down and getting them used to you going out is possible. Provide chew toys for them to take out their anxiety on and consider leaving a TV or radio on so they don’t feel alone.
Crate training is a great way to keep your house safe and to help your dog feel more secure, but its effectiveness depends on the dog. Some dogs love them and appreciate their own den, some feel more anxious when they’re in the crate.
In severe cases, you may need to see a dog behavioral therapist or visit the vet. Some medications can reduce anxiety in dogs. Anxiety vests can also be used to soothe your dog when you go out or when they’re upset for another reason, such as storms or fireworks.
Disobedience
One big issue with some dogs is disobedience. You want your dog to obey you to keep it safe and to keep everyone happy, but some dogs prefer to do their own thing. Keep up with your dog’s training to make sure that it’s used to listening to you. In some cases, an obedience trainer can help you to tame your dog.
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