As adorable as your canine might be, some of his behaviours can still cause you quite the headache. When it comes to “bad habits” like barking, biting, chewing, digging, or running away—take charge! Your dog will follow your lead if he knows who’s boss.
 
Barking

It’s a fact of life that dogs will bark. Some barking is for a purpose, while other barking is a behaviour problem.

If your dog’s barking is unprovoked, it may mean he’s lonely or bored. Give him more attention by encouraging family members to play with him or take him for a walk. And provide him with toys for his amusement when you leave him alone.

Sometimes, though, more attention won’t solve the problem. In this case, try filling some cans with pebbles. When your dog barks, shake the can to get his attention and say “Quiet” in a firm voice. As he catches on, the “quiet” command should stop the barking on its own.

Remember that any action to deter barking must be made while your dog is engaging in the act. After-the-fact correctives will only confuse your canine pal. Again, use a strong, firm voice but avoid yelling.

Some dogs bark to express fear. In the case of separation anxiety, you need to train your dog to be left alone. Practice by leaving him in a room by himself. If he barks, return and say “Quiet,” then leave again. If he’s quiet for a brief period afterward, return and praise him. Gradually extend your time away from the room and, upon returning, always praise him for obeying your command.

Other dogs bark to protect their territory. And a perceived “bark/reward” cycle only reinforces the act. For example, consider the dog that barks as the mailman approaches the door. Shortly after, when the mailman leaves, the dog believes his barking was effective, so he repeats the behaviour when anyone comes to the door. Fortunately, simply introducing your dog to people who come to the home regularly may help solve the problem.

Furthermore, not all barking is bad. In fact, sometimes it’s both necessary and constructive. So, how can you tell whether your dog’s barking is problematic or purposeful? It’s all in the body language.

Constructive barking can be an invitation to play, a threat to intruders, a warning of danger, or a sign of pain or illness.

If a dog wants to play, he’ll wag his tail and stop barking when play begins. If he’s threatening intruders, the hair on his back and tail may stand on end. When warning people or other dogs against danger, your dog’s tail will be motionless and low to the ground. If he’s pained or ill, his barking will be accompanied by other telling signs.

Biting & Chewing

Have you come home to a closet full of chewed-up shoes? If so, it’s time for some doggie training. Dogs do needto chew to relieve stress and excess energy. But you should train your pup to act out this instinct on safe chew-toys, rather than household objects. If your dog chews on something off-limits, say “No” in a low voice. Then give him a safe chew-toy and praise him when good behaviour follows. In addition, avoid rough play and games like “tug-of-war,” as this will encourage aggressive behaviour.

Digging

The annoying habit of digging ranks high on the list of behaviour problems in dogs. Unfortunately, there is no one answer to solve this particular peeve.

In some instances, the instinct to dig is in the heritage of the breed. Nordic dogs dig holes to cool themselves. Terriers (from the Latin, “terra, ” for earth) were used to dig for rodents and small game. Dachshunds were developed to chase badgers into their holes.

This said: some dogs, regardless of heritage, dig to express certain emotions. If you can identify the emotion, you may be able to stop the digging.

Sometimes digging is the result of loneliness, lack of exercise, or severe heat. If loneliness is the case, gradually help your dog to tolerate longer absences. Your veterinarian can help you plan this behaviour-modification training. Regular exercise is important for many reasons, and may also help alleviate your dog’s digging problem. In the summer months, some dogs dig to keep cool. Make sure your pup has plenty of cold, fresh water on hand and a shady area for rest.

Your dog may be digging under a fence to wander away. This is especially common in un-neutered pets. Neutering your dog will prevent him from digging by suppressing the instinct to wander or stray.

If, after taking these steps, your dog is still digging, you may want to provide him with a “digging area.” When he digs in this designated area, praise him and reward him with a treat. If he digs outside the area—and you can catch him in the act—a firm “No” usually deters him from doing so again.

Fear of Thunder

Dogs are commonly afraid of thunder. Observe his behaviour in order to determine where he’s comfortable and feels safe. Then attempt to comfort him.

Instead, try distracting your dog by inviting him to do something else, and praise him when he follows suit. Just make sure your dog is in a safe spot away from windows and other glass—you don’t want his training to lead to an injury.

For the really terrified pet, consult your veterinarian for medications that can be used during a thunderstorm.
           
Running Astray

You open the door to the house and your dog is off like a bullet. You can only watch helplessly as he bolts into the hallway or front yard. All you hope for is that he hasn’t hurt himself or one of your neighbours. Sound familiar? Don’t despair. With patience, you can transform your dog into a model canine.

• Leash your dog and sit him down in front of a closed door.
• Tell him to “Stay,” and start opening the door.
• When he starts to get up, close the door and return him to the exact spot where you gave the command.
• Continue until he begins to get the message.
• Practice until you can open the door all the way before closing again.
• Each time you let your dog out, make him sit while you open the door, and stay put until you give him the release command.
• Reward your dog’s good behaviour.

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