Solving Behavior Problems
A comprehensive guide to diagnosing and fixing the most common dog behavior issues — barking, chewing, digging, jumping, and more.
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Behavior Problems Are Communication
When a dog barks excessively, chews the furniture, growls at strangers, or hides during thunderstorms, it's not being "bad" or "spiteful." Dogs don't act out of revenge. They're responding to something in their environment — fear, boredom, anxiety, frustration, or a need that isn't being met.
The first step in solving any behavior problem is figuring out what your dog is actually trying to tell you. Once you understand the root cause, the fix usually follows naturally. The articles below cover the most common behavior challenges I see in my training practice, with practical solutions you can start using today.
Common Behavior Issues
Some behaviors are normal for dogs but problematic in our human homes. Chewing is natural — but not on your shoes. Barking is communication — but not at 6 AM. Jumping up is excitement — but it knocks over the kids. The goal isn't to suppress normal dog behavior, but to redirect it onto appropriate outlets.
Other issues, like separation anxiety or resource guarding, signal that your dog is genuinely struggling emotionally. These need patience, a structured plan, and often the help of a certified professional. There's no shame in asking for support — and the sooner you start, the faster things improve.
Behavior Guides
Separation Anxiety
How to help a dog that panics when left alone. Step-by-step desensitization plan and when to call in a professional.
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Reactivity & Leash Frustration
If your dog lunges, barks, or freaks out at other dogs on walks, here's what's actually happening and how to fix it.
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Resource Guarding
Why dogs growl over food, toys, or beds — and how to address it safely without making the problem worse.
Browse All Articles →The Three Principles I Use With Every Behavior Case
1. Identify the function. Every behavior happens for a reason. Is your dog barking to get attention? To warn something away? Because they're scared? The answer dictates the fix.
2. Meet the underlying need. If your dog is chewing because they're bored and underexercised, more chew toys won't help. A 30-minute walk and some mental enrichment will.
3. Don't punish the symptom. Punishing a fearful dog for growling doesn't make them less fearful — it just teaches them to skip the warning and go straight to a bite. Address the emotion, not just the action.
Working on Obedience Instead?
If your dog already knows the basics but needs a refresher — or you're starting from scratch — the Obedience Training hub has the step-by-step guides you need.
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