What Dog Behavior Should Not Be Ignored? Learn How to Spot and Address Your Dog’s Issues Now
Dog owners understand and appreciate the importance of their four-legged friends’ mental and physical health, and are always on the lookout for potential warning signs that could indicate a problem.
But did you know that there are certain behaviors in dogs which should never be ignored? Whether you have a brand new puppy or an older adult pooch, familiarizing yourself with what these behaviors can mean will save your pup from further pain down the road.
Read this blog post to learn more about which dog behavior signals should not be ignored!
See more: How Much Do Veterinary Care Assistants Earn?
Dog Behaviors That Should Not Be Ignored
Excessive barking
Excessive barking can be a sign of anxiety, fear or an underlying medical issue. If your pup is barking more than usual, it’s best to have them checked out by a vet to rule out any health issues.
House soiling
House soiling can be caused by medical conditions such as a urinary tract infection, or bladder stones. It can also be caused by anxiety and fear, or simply not understanding the house rules. If your pup is having accidents in the house, it’s best to take them to the vet for a check-up and then work with a positive reinforcement trainer to create an effective housetraining plan.
Lethargy
If your pup is showing signs of lethargy or not wanting to do their usual activities, it could be an indicator of a medical issue like a thyroid problem or another condition that needs attention. If your dog’s energy levels seem unusually low, take them to the vet for a check-up.
Aggression
Aggression is a very serious behavior and should not be ignored. Many times it stems from underlying issues such as fear or anxiety that can be addressed with the help of a professional trainer who specializes in positive reinforcement techniques. If you see signs of aggression, seek help right away to prevent any potential injuries.
Changes in appetite
Changes in appetite can be an indicator of a serious medical condition, such as diabetes or kidney disease. It is important to take your pup to the vet right away if you notice a significant change in their eating habits.
Unusual vocalizations
If your pup is suddenly making strange noises, it can be a sign of pain or discomfort. It is important to take them to the vet right away to rule out any medical issues.
Changes in sleeping habits
If your pup is suddenly sleeping more than usual, or having difficulty settling down at night, it could indicate an underlying health issue or anxiety. Speak to your vet about any changes in your pup’s sleeping habits and they can help you find the best way to address it.
Unusual behavior around people
If your pup is suddenly exhibiting unusual behaviors such as barking, growling, or snapping at people, it is important to take them to the vet right away. There could be an underlying medical issue causing distress, or your pup may need help with socialization training.
Overall, some behavior problems in dogs that should not be ignored include excessive barking, house soiling, lethargy, aggression, changes in appetite, unusual vocalizations, changes in sleeping habits and unusual behavior around people. If you notice any of these behaviors in your pup, it’s important to get them checked out by a vet and work with a positive reinforcement trainer to help address the issue.
Dog Behaviors That Should Be Ignored
Barking
It can quickly become annoying if your pup barks at every little vibration or noise, whether it be from a passing vehicle or the mailman. While this is an instinctive behavior for dogs, barking should not be encouraged in any way. If you notice that your dog has a tendency to bark at most noises, it’s best to ignore the behavior until he eventually stops.
Jumping
When dogs are overly excited, they may jump on people as a way of expressing their joy. While this action can be endearing, it should not be encouraged in any way as it could lead to potential injuries or aggression. If your dog jumps on people, it’s best to ignore him and redirect his behavior towards something else.
Chewing
Chewing is a natural form of play for puppies and dogs alike, but this habit can become dangerous if they start chewing on furniture or clothing. While you may be tempted to yell at your pup when they start chewing on something, it’s best to ignore them and provide them with an appropriate toy.
Digging
It can be very frustrating if you come home after a long day and find that your dog has been digging up holes in the yard. While this behavior should not be encouraged, it’s best to ignore the action rather than scold your pup. Instead, provide them with a designated digging spot so they can explore their natural urge without causing damage.
Chasing
Chasing after small animals or cars is another behavior that dogs tend to exhibit when they’re feeling overly excited. While it’s important to be aware of the risks involved with this type of behavior, it’s best to ignore your pup and have them sit or lay down until they are calm.
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Benefits of Ignoring Certain Dog Behaviors
1. Prevents Excessive Barking: Ignoring certain behaviors, such as excessive barking or whining, can help to reduce this behavior over time. By not rewarding the behavior with attention and/or treats, your dog will learn that these behaviors are unproductive and are less likely to repeat them in the future.
2. Promotes Positive Behavior: By ignoring negative behaviors and rewarding positive ones, your dog will learn the appropriate way to act in order to get the desired response from you. This helps your dog understand which behaviors are acceptable and which are not.
3. Breaks Bad Habits: Ignoring undesirable behaviors can help break a bad habit or reinforce good ones. If your dog is engaging in a behavior you do not want them to do, try ignoring it and rewarding the more desirable behavior instead. This will help to reinforce the positive behavior and discourage the negative one.
4. Reduces Stress Levels: Ignoring certain behaviors can help reduce stress levels for both you and your pup. By not rewarding or reinforcing undesirable behaviors, you can help reduce frustration and anxiety levels in both yourself and your dog. This can help to create a more peaceful environment for everyone.
5. Improves Relationship: Ignoring certain behaviors and rewarding good ones helps improve the relationship between you and your pup. It shows that you are willing to give attention when it is deserved, which can help to foster trust and strengthen the bond between you.
6. Prevents Unhealthy Habits: Ignoring certain behaviors can prevent unhealthy habits from forming in the long run. If your pup engages in an undesirable behavior, ignoring it teaches them that this behavior will not be rewarded or reinforced and encourages them to engage in healthier habits. This can help to keep both of you happier and healthier in the long run.
7. Strengthens Obedience: Ignoring certain behaviors, while rewarding positive ones, helps to strengthen obedience and teaches your pup that they must listen to your commands in order to receive rewards or attention. This will help them to be more obedient in the future and make training easier.
8. Builds Self-Control: By consistently ignoring certain behaviors and rewarding appropriate ones, your pup will learn to practice self-control and understand their limits. This helps them to become a better behaved dog over time and encourages them to make better choices on their own.
FAQs
How long does a dog training lead need to be?
The length of a dog training lead will depend on the size and breed of your dog, as well as your own preferences. Generally, it is recommended that a six foot leash or flexible line be used for basic obedience training. A longer, 10-15 foot lead may be useful when teaching off-leash commands outdoors in open areas. Ultimately, you should choose the lead length that best suits your individual needs and circumstances.
When in doubt, it is always better to err on the side of caution and use a shorter leash. This will help to ensure that your pup remains under control while learning basic obedience commands.
How long does a dog training lead last?
The longevity of a dog training lead will depend on the materials used and how it is cared for. Generally, leads made from leather or nylon may last years if properly maintained. Coated steel and plastic leads are more likely to become frayed or broken with regular use over time. However, no matter what material is used, proper care should be taken to ensure a dog lead lasts as long as possible.
This may include regularly checking the material for any signs of wear and tear and replacing the lead when necessary. With proper care, a good quality dog training lead should last for many years.
Conclusion
When it comes to dog behavior, there are some behaviors that should not be ignored. Signs of aggression such as growling, barking, snapping, or biting should never be taken lightly and should be addressed immediately by professional help if needed.
Similarly, changes in appetite or potty habits can also indicate underlying health issues and should be monitored closely. Finally, if your dog is exhibiting any kind of destructive behavior such as chewing on furniture or digging in the yard, this may be a sign they are trying to tell you something and should not be ignored.
Taking the time to really observe and understand the subtle cues that our furry friends give us can help them live their best lives.
Visit Vet Ranch for more information, thanks for reading!
