To help you through the process, we have listed down 12 behavioral problems seen in dogs, how to solve them.

1. Digging

It is no surprise that dogs like to dig, and you will have to train them to stop. Whenever you catch them digging, use a firm command like “no”, “don’t”. Then distract your dog, this can be done with a toy.

There is no point in scolding at your dog afterward, as the act has already been committed. If your dog really loves to dig, get him/her a sandbox where he can enjoy himself.

2. Chewing

Puppies have a habit of exploring the world via their mouth, and enjoy chewing things, as it helps them calm down. The only downside is, it might destroy your valuable items, and some bit or piece might make its way to their intestine (which is bad). What should you do in this case?

You should take away the item(s) you see them gnaw on, and get them a number of chew toys. Encourage them to chew on the toys, and praise them when they are chewing the toy.

3. Begging

There is only one way to prevent this, and that is to never feed scraps to your dog from the table. So try to take your dog out of the room when you are eating (I know it may sound terrible), or teach him to wait in their crate while you eat (aww, this breaks my heart, too).

4. Response

If your dog is not responding when you call, then praise them when they do. Try to use phrases such as “come” or “here”, so they understand the command.

5. Leash Pulling

You have to teach your dog to walk beside you, and the trick is to never let them pull their leash. They will make a habit of it – If you let it slide once or twice.

So keep your leash short and loose, and try stopping, then watch your dog check on why you aren’t moving. Praise your dog when he comes back to sit by your side.

6. Separation Anxiety

The idea is to teach them that you will come back. Start by leaving and coming back in 5 minutes, and start leaving her/him alone for longer over time. Make Sure they have something to distract them, like chew toys, food, and water.

7. Attention

Do not encourage this habit, if you pet whines, leave the room, or turn your back on them and fold your arms. Only play with them when they are not whining to break this habit.

8. Barking at Closed Door

As they are not able to see through them, it tends to make them anxious. Pick a spot where they have a clear view of the door, and teach them to wait.

Ask a friend to show up with a dog treat, but only let them have it if they sit in their spot and wait.

9. Jumping

It’s natural for them to jump on people, but it can scare people. Do not give your dog any attention until they stand paws down on the ground. Or you can ask him/her to sit, and then pet them.

10. Biting

Dogs tend to bite when they feel nervous, or threatened. The best way to prevent this is, have them socialize from a young age, so they are not nervous around people. Keep an eye on your dog to ensure their comfort.

11. Aggression

When your dog is nervous or afraid they will get into a “hostile mode”. Never leave them alone with unfamiliar people when they are aggressive. As they might hurt anyone in the process.

12. Barking

If your dog barks at everything, do not scream back, as it just makes it worse. You need to train your dog, and help him/her fix frustration barking.

Bring them inside if they play outside too much, and engage them in relaxing postures. The idea is to help them learn how to control their impulses.

