Dog Behaviour Essentials: What You Need to Know

Understanding your dog's behaviours is essential when it comes to the ability to recognise when your dog's needs are not being met. This is especially important because when your four-legged best friend's needs are unfulfilled, unwanted behaviours can start emerging. Without further ado - here is everything you need to know about your dog’s behaviour!

Common Dog Behaviours

First off, let's take a look at the most common dog behaviours you may witness.

• Dogs use barking to communicate a variety of feelings, including raising the alarm at the signs of potential danger, excitement, getting your attention, surprise, and much more. It's a good idea to look into different types of barks to try to understand your pup better.

• Panting helps dogs regulate their body temperature and cool down when they're hot or participating in strenuous exercise. Learn to recognise your dog's normal breathing and panting patterns so you can spot unusual changes quicker.

• For a dog, biting is a way of expressing his feeling or state of mind, and this reaction could stem from nervousness, fear or aggression. Not only that but they can also bite during play or to protect something valuable to them.

• Though it can seem cute that your dog is giving you an enthusiastic greeting by jumping up, it's good to keep in mind that there can be many reasons behind this behaviour. Your dog might be trying to assert dominance over you, he might have an active personality, or he wants to get your attention. Whatever the case, it's a good idea to determine whether you want to encourage this behaviour or train him not to do it.

• Separation Anxiety. It's natural for dogs to feel anxious when they are separated from their pack. So, when your dog is separated from you, he or she can start to feel distressed. That's when unwanted behaviours, such as chewing, digging, and howling, can begin to develop.

What To Do Next

Now it's time to observe your dog's behaviour and consider whether you're giving your dog what he or she needs. Determine if you’re giving him or her enough attention, exercise, and discipline. If you discover that these areas can be improved, then read on for some recommendations.

Lack of Discipline

If you see that your dog is lacking discipline, consider trying out some of these methods:

• Positively reinforce good behaviours by giving treats and encouragement.
• Address wrong behaviour immediately when you catch your dog in the act.
• Use the right tools, such as a dog harness or the correct dog leash when training your pup.

Separation Anxiety

If you’ve found out your dog is suffering from separation anxiety, then it might be time to work through it. There are a few methods to try out:

• You can contact a certified trainer that can help your dog.
• Try to leave the home and return low-key without making a big deal out of greetings.
• Give your dog a tasty treat when you leave the house.

Lack of Exercise

If you’ve noticed that your dog lacks exercise, here’s what you can do:

• Take longer walks.
• Play fetch.
• Explore new parks.

Pro tip: When deciding how much exercise you want your dog to have, always keep in mind their breed. High-energy breeds require more exercise than low-energy breeds.

Bottom Line

It’s important to know and understand your furry friend and recognise different types of behaviours. This makes it easier for you to form a strong bond that will be at the base of every adventure you take on together!