Your pet’s actions explain its mood. While you might not be very fluent in comprehending their barks or what they’re trying to say, you must have the instincts when something does not look right and normal. Pets have their own antics that make them sweet and loveable. Some of these antics are harmless, but sometimes they can be destructive, irritating, and troublesome.
So what dog behaviors need to be fixed or examined by a vet? Let’s find out as we proceed.
5 Common Dog Behavioral Problems
Having a dog that shows behaviors you don’t like can be challenging. Many dog behaviors we call bad are usually normal behaviors that became extreme due to a lack of training and instincts. Some of these habits might also stem from specific health conditions. Below are five dog behaviors you must look out for.
1. Biting
Any threatened or anxious dogs can bite, but socializing them while young will teach them to be relaxed around their fellows and people. Spend time bonding or playing with your pet and slowly expose them to new settings to develop their trust and make them feel safe. Be always careful around food and kids. If your canine remains a biter despite these efforts, see a veterinarian or professional trainer and seek help.
2. Digging
Dogs love to dig, but they can be trained to stop doing it. When you catch them in the act of digging, say “no” and distract them with a toy. Scolding them after they are done digging won’t help, so it is necessary to be consistent in scolding them and telling them to stop while they’re digging. If your pet’s digging still does not stop despite your efforts, work with an expert trainer to eliminate this persistent habit.
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3. Chewing
Chewing is natural for dogs and a part of how they are wired. However, excessive chewing can be troublesome if your dog destroys your belongings or household items. This might happen because your pup is teething, bored, or has anxiety. One way to prevent this is by giving them appropriate chew toys and ensuring they get enough exercise. Jogging or walking them in the park can wear off their energy and distract them from chewing too much.
Excessive chewing can also affect your pet’s teeth if they chew on something sharp and hard. You’ll need to take them to a cat dentist when they show tooth pain symptoms due to excessive chewing.
4. Circling
Dogs that walk in circles and chase their tail may look fun at first, but this indicates a health issue. Ear infections often cause circling, and compulsive tail chasing often happens to bull terriers. There are also other reasons why dogs walk in circles. Only the vet knows what’s causing your dog’s circling, so take your furry buddy for a checkup.
Do you want discounts on vet visits and your pet’s preventive care? Getting a pet wellness plan from facilities like Browns Bridge Animal Hospital can be helpful.
5. Head pressing
Have you seen your dog pressing its head against a wall or firm object? This is a sign of a medical emergency. Head pressing usually indicates numerous health conditions, which include brain disease or toxic poisoning. Contact your veterinarian immediately when you observe this weird behavior.
