Why Your Precious Pooch Is So Badly Behaved

When dogs behave themselves, it’s great. They’re great companions who’ll stick by you no matter what. But when dogs behave badly, you sometimes don’t even want to leave the house. Understanding why your dog is developing behavioral problems is, therefore, crucial. Here’s what might be going wrong.

Fear Periods Or Adolescence

Like humans, dogs go through various phases of development. One of those phases is called the “fear period.” Normally happy puppies suddenly become frightened of people and withdraw from family life. The good news is that this is a normal part of dog’s development. Most dogs go through two fear periods. The first occurs around 8 to 12 weeks of age. The second occurs between five and six months. The exact timing of the fear period will depend on the age and condition of the dog.

If you suddenly notice your dog is shy and retiring, don’t panic. Usually, it will pass. If you’re worried, you can go to a dog training session or visit the vet and get your pup back to normal. Remember, during the fear period, dogs are especially sensitive. If they are scared by something, it’ll imprint firmly, and they may be affected for life.

Changes In Routine

Dogs love routine. It helps them manage the world and gives them a sense of security. Changes in routine can lead to anxiety. And anxiety, in turn, can result in challenging behavior. If you’ve just taken a new job with a different timetable, don’t be surprised if your dog doesn’t like it. A new work schedule, partner or child can be stressful for our four-legged friends.

The best solution here is to be patient. Dogs, like people, adapt to changing circumstances. And so consistent love and attention will quickly resolve any temporary issues.

Not Enough Stimulation

Believe it or not, dogs are thinking beings. And, as thinking beings, they need mental stimulation to keep them on the straight and narrow. All too often, this aspect of caring for dogs is forgotten, and their behavior suffers as a result. Some experts recommend that dog owners get their dogs to work up a mental sweat while to earn their meals. They suggest hiding bits of food around the yard or hiding it somewhere in the house. Dogs love to forage for their food – and it engages their mental faculties.

Health Issues

Health problems are enough to make anybody feel a little cranky. And the same goes for dogs. Dogs can suffer from a whole range of diseases, including sore teeth, thyroid problems, and arthritis. These issues are uncomfortable and may make a dog more prone to lash out. If you suspect these problems in your dog, take them down to the vet for a checkup.

Genetic Issues

Finally, some behavioral problems are caused by genetic issues. If a dog’s parent was particularly aggressive or hyperactive, it’s likely that the same applies to the dog itself. Overriding bad genetics with great socialization is possible. But this takes significant time and effort, and won’t always work. If you’re buying a puppy, try to find out as much as you can about the temperament of the parents.