Behavioral Issues in Dogs: 4 Red Flags to Watch Out

Dogs are beloved companions, but sometimes they exhibit behavioral problems that can be concerning or challenging for owners. As an owner, you must not brush them under the rug, no matter how minor they appear.

According to a recent study, a Texas A&M Researcher found that more than 99% of dogs in the US exhibit a behavioral issue. The most common among them are separation and attachment behaviors (85.9%), aggression (55.6%), and fear and anxiety (49.9%). If you feel your dog is well-behaved, one of these issues may surface at some point. 

Recognizing early warning signs can help address these issues effectively and maintain a healthy relationship with your canine buddy. Here are five red flags in dog behavior you should be watchful about.

#1: Constant Aggression

VCA Animal Hospitals notes that aggression is one of the most common behavioral problems in dogs. At the same time, it can be complex, serious and dangerous. In fact, owners must think twice about the decision to keep a dog that has demonstrated aggressive responses. It is complicated and may even have legal consequences.

Consider the example of a recent dog bite incident in St. Louis, when two pitbulls attacked a woman and her 4-year-old child. Both were seriously injured and spent several days in the hospital. A St. Louis personal injury lawyer can help them ensure that the owners of these dogs pay for their negligence. 

According to TorHoerman Law, the owner’s liability and personal injury compensation in such cases depend on the severity of the attack. As a dog parent, keep an eye on the signs of aggression. Early signs include growling, snapping, or lunging. Causes often include fear, anxiety, genetic predisposition, conflict, or learned responses. Seek veterinary or professional behavioral help promptly when aggression is observed. 

#2: Resource Guarding

Resource guarding is a behavior where a dog attempts to assert ownership over items like toys, food, beds, or even people. According to Humane World for Animals, pet parents must understand the psychology behind resource guarding. Anxiety is the primary cause though improper training may also cause it when owners take away food as punishment. 

Dogs that may have experienced scarcity or competition for resources in the past often exhibit the behavior. Signs include growling, stiffening of the body, intense staring, and lip-licking. Sometimes, you may notice the animal’s ears pinned back when another dog or person approaches the guarded item. 

This behavior can escalate to biting if not managed in the early stages. Understanding the triggers and working with a trainer to desensitize the dog to sharing or interruptions can prevent escalation.

#3: Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety occurs when a dog experiences distress upon being separated from its owner. While the issue is behavioral in most cases, genetics may also be responsible. An article published in Yahoo Life lists the breeds that are the most susceptible to separation anxiety. These include Cockapoo, Golden retriever, cocker Spaniel, Dalmatian, and Chihuahua. 

Warning signs are excessive barking, howling, pacing, destructive chewing, urination, or defecation indoors Some dogs may even attempt to escape. This condition is stressful for the dog; even worse, it can negatively impact its physical health due to chronic stress. 

Separation anxiety is complex and not fully understood. However, it can be treated through systematic desensitization and, if needed, medication. Avoid punishing or ignoring the dog’s distress as it may worsen the problem.

#4: Destructive Tendencies

Destructive behavior is another problem dog parents must not overlook. You may see your furry buddy chewing, digging, barking, and jumping. These habits can cause damage to household items or the environment. Many owners consider it mischief to begin with, and do not realize what is wrong until the problems worsen. 

While puppies may chew to relieve teething discomfort, destructive behaviors in adult dogs stem from other reasons. These are boredom, lack of exercise, anxiety, or medical issues. Dogs may also engage in destructive acts to release excess energy or cope with fear and stress. 

Managing this problem is easy, provided you act early. You can redirect destructive tendencies to appropriate outlets like chew toys. Providing sufficient mental and physical stimulation can also help reduce these behaviors.

FAQs

What is the most common behavioral concern of dog owners?

Aggression is reported as the most common and serious behavioral concern. Surprisingly, a majority of dogs display some form of aggression at some point. Some do it due to separation anxiety and fear-related behavior, while others exhibit resource guarding. 

What age do dogs misbehave the most?

Dogs tend to show the most negative behavioral challenges during adolescence. That is roughly between 6 and 18 months of age. This is a turbulent phase marked by hormonal changes in canines. They encounter increased energy and a desire for independence during this period. Often, this results in disobedience and other problematic behaviors

Does ignoring your dog help with bad behavior?

Ignoring certain bad behaviors, such as barking or jumping, can help curb them if done consistently and correctly. Known as extinction, this technique works by removing the reward or attention the dog seeks through the behavior. However, it must be applied every time the behavior occurs as inconsistent responses lack effectiveness. 

Behavioral issues in dogs can be more problematic than pet parents can imagine. If overlooked, they can worsen over time, and even become untreatable. Understanding the underlying causes and seeking professional guidance when necessary can help resolve these behaviors. Do not overlook the red flags and act promptly if you want to raise a happy and obedient Fido.