Common Behavior Issues (& How to Fix Them!)

Every dog owner dreams of a well-behaved companion, but problem behaviors often stem from communication gaps, not defiance. Dogs don’t misbehave to be “bad”—they act based on what they’ve learned works.

Instead of frustration, let’s focus on solutions. Here’s how to address some of the most common behavior challenges.

1. Leash Pulling: Turning Walks into a Tug-of-War

The Problem: Your dog drags you down the street, ignoring your attempts to slow them down.

Why It Happens:

• Pulling has worked in the past (they get to their destination).
• Overstimulation from sights, smells, and excitement.
• No clear structure or communication on walks.

How to Fix It:

• Start calm: No leaving the house until your dog is settled.
• Teach loose-leash walking: Stop moving the second they pull. Reward when they walk nicely.
• Use the right tools: A structured collar or harness can improve communication.

2. Jumping on People: From Cute to Chaos

The Problem: Your dog launches themselves at guests (or you) in excitement.

Why It Happens:

• Jumping gets attention.
• No clear alternative behavior has been taught.
• Past reinforcement (even negative attention can be rewarding).

✅ How to Fix It:

• Ignore jumping, reward calm. If all four paws are on the ground, praise and treat.
• Teach a sit-for-greetings rule. Make sitting the new default.
• Be consistent. Everyone must follow the same rule—no exceptions.

3. Excessive Barking: When Your Dog Won’t Stop Talking

The Problem: Your dog barks at everything—guests, other dogs, or even nothing at all.

Why It Happens:

• Alert barking: They feel responsible for the home.
• Attention-seeking: Barking gets them what they want.
• Boredom: Lack of physical or mental stimulation.

How to Fix It:

• Identify the cause: Is it excitement, fear, or habit?
• Teach “quiet” on command: Reward when they stop barking.
• Redirect energy: More exercise, puzzle toys, and structured training sessions.

4. Reactivity: The Overreaction to Everything

The Problem: Your dog lunges, barks, or growls at people, dogs, or moving objects.

Why It Happens:

• Fear or insecurity: Reactivity is often rooted in anxiety.
• Lack of impulse control: They don’t know how to regulate emotions.
• Reinforced behavior: If barking/lunging makes the trigger go away, they repeat it.

How to Fix It:

• Create distance: Work at a comfortable distance from triggers.
• Reward neutrality: Mark and treat calm behavior.
• Use structured exposure: Slowly decrease distance over time.

5. Separation Anxiety: When Leaving Feels Like the End of the World

The Problem: Your dog panics when left alone—barking, pacing, or destroying things.

Why It Happens:

• Lack of independence training.
• Overattachment. Constant attention makes alone time stressful.
• Inconsistent departures. Owners unknowingly create departure anxiety.

✅ How to Fix It:

• Practice short absences. Start small and gradually increase time alone.
• Keep departures/arrivals low-key. No dramatic goodbyes.
• Use crate training. A safe, secure space reduces stress.

Every Behavior Challenge Has a Solution

Dogs aren’t born knowing how to behave in our world—they need guidance, structure, and clear communication.

Be patient. Behavior change takes time.

Be consistent. Dogs thrive on routine.

Seek professional help when needed. The right training makes all the difference.

Not sure where to start? Let’s build a training plan together.