The four most common canine behavioural problems and how to manage them

Whether your dog is large, small, young, or old, every dog needs training, management, and control to ensure their safety, the safety of others, and to foster a happy relationship. Understanding common behavioural challenges helps owners handle these issues with empathy and effectiveness.

This article explores the four most common canine behavioural problems, explains why they occur, and offers practical, responsible strategies to manage and improve these behaviours in your dog.

1. Poor Recall or Running Off

Recall, the command to come when called, is one of the most important but also one of the hardest for many dogs to obey perfectly. Effective recall can prevent accidents and keep your dog safe in dangerous situations like near roads.

Dogs that frequently ignore recall commands often find more reward in exploring independently than returning. This imbalance means owners must work consistently to build recall reliability through rewarding positive responses.

Tips to improve recall:

• Use high-value treats or favourite toys as a reward.
• Start training in a distraction-free environment and gradually increase distractions.
• Practice regularly and keep recall commands positive and enthusiastic.
• Avoid punishing your dog when they come late, instead support and reward their efforts.

For more detailed guidance on recall training, see our previous article on recall training.

2. Chewing and Destruction of Property

Chewing is a natural behaviour for dogs, used to explore, relieve boredom, or ease teething in puppies. However, inappropriate chewing on valuable household items can be frustrating for owners.

Understanding that stopping all chewing is neither possible nor desirable, owners should provide plenty of suitable chew toys in various textures and sizes to satisfy this instinctive need.

Additional tips:

• Rotate chew toys to maintain your dog’s interest.
• Ensure your dog gets enough physical exercise and mental stimulation to reduce destructive boredom chewing.
• Keep personal belongings out of reach to prevent temptation.
• Use deterrent sprays safely on items you want your dog to avoid.

3. Jumping Up

Jumping up on people may start as puppy enthusiasm but quickly becomes an issue if left unchecked. It can cause injury, dirty clothing, or damage when your dog jumps up on guests.

Training your dog not to jump up involves consistent redirection and rewarding alternative behaviours such as sitting politely.

How to manage jumping up:

• When your dog jumps up, turn your back or step away without engaging.
• When they keep all four paws on the ground, reward with praise or a treat.
• Teach a reliable "down" or "sit" command and reward compliance.
• Be consistent with all household members and visitors to enforce this behaviour.

4. Dominance Behaviour

Dominance in dogs is complex and often misunderstood. Signs can include refusing commands, demanding attention, guarding food, or territorial behaviours. Small breeds can exhibit these behaviours too and should be managed with the same seriousness as larger dogs.

Maintaining clear boundaries, consistent rules, and reinforcing your role as the leader helps prevent dominance problems from escalating.

Tips to manage dominance:

• Set firm, consistent house rules that everyone follows.
• Avoid allowing your dog to decide when to eat or where to rest.
• Regular obedience training strengthens your leadership and your dog’s respect.
• Seek professional help if dominance behaviours become aggressive or difficult to manage.

Additional Common Problems to Be Aware Of

Other frequent behavioural issues include excessive barking, separation anxiety, and aggression. Each has its causes and requires compassionate, tailored approaches often including environmental enrichment, training, and sometimes veterinary or professional behavioural assistance.

Responsible Dog Ownership and Choosing Your Dog

Understanding common behavioural challenges is essential when choosing a dog. Considering a breed's typical temperament and behaviour can help match your lifestyle and training capabilities.

Always seek reputable breeders or adoption centres to find a suitable dog, and commit to training and caring for your pet responsibly throughout their life.

Conclusion

While canine behavioural problems can be challenging, consistent, positive training combined with understanding your dog’s needs can make a significant difference. Early intervention, plenty of mental and physical stimulation, and clear boundaries will foster a happy, well-behaved canine companion.

Helping your dog thrive through training and care not only improves your relationship but also improves their welfare and safety.