12 Commonly seen Behavioural Problems in Dogs

1. Aggression: Aggression can manifest in various forms, including fear-based aggression, territorial aggression, food aggression, and more. It's essential to identify the underlying cause and work with a professional dog trainer or behaviourist to address aggression.

2. Separation Anxiety: Dogs with separation anxiety may become anxious or destructive when left alone. This condition often requires a systematic training and desensitisation approach to help the dog become more comfortable with being alone.

3. Excessive Barking: Some dogs bark excessively, whether due to anxiety, boredom, territorial instincts, or fear. Training and environmental enrichment can help reduce excessive barking.

4. Destructive Chewing: Dogs may chew on furniture, shoes, or other items due to boredom, teething, or anxiety. Providing appropriate chew toys and training can redirect this behaviour.

5. Jumping Up: Many dogs jump up on people as a way to greet them. While this can be a sign of excitement, it can be problematic. Training can help teach alternative greetings.

6. House Soiling: House training issues, including urinating or defecating indoors, can be due to incomplete house training, medical issues, or behavioural problems. Consult with a veterinarian to rule out medical causes and work on house training if needed.

7. Fear and Anxiety: Some dogs may be fearful or anxious in specific situations, such as during thunderstorms or fireworks. Behaviour modification techniques and sometimes medication can help manage anxiety and fear-related issues.

8. Leash Reactivity: Dogs that bark, lunge, or show aggression while on a leash may be experiencing leash reactivity. Professional training and desensitisation can help address this problem.

9. Resource Guarding: Dogs may become possessive over food, toys, or other objects, leading to aggressive behaviour. Behaviour modification techniques can help address resource guarding.

10. Compulsive Behaviours: Some dogs may develop compulsive behaviours, such as excessive licking, tail chasing, or pacing. These behaviours can be challenging to address and may require professional help.

11. Pulling on the Leash: Dogs that pull on the leash can be difficult to control and can lead to undesirable behaviour during walks. Training and using proper equipment, like a no-pull harness, can help.


12. Excessive Excitability: Dogs that are overly excitable may struggle to settle down and may be prone to jumping, barking, submissive urination and other unwanted behaviours. Training can help teach calmness and impulse control.

It's crucial to remember that many behavioural problems can be resolved or managed with the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviourist. Additionally, some issues may have underlying medical causes, so it's essential to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any health-related issues before addressing behavioural problems. Early intervention and consistent training are key to successfully addressing these common behavioural problems in dogs. Be patient and positive while working with your dog to resolve his behavioural challenges.