Does my puppy have behavioural problems?
There are two ways to classify problem behaviours in puppies.
A problem behaviour is a natural behaviour that is unacceptable to you for a particular reason.
Common problem behaviours include:
- jumping on people
- barking
- toileting in inappropriate locations
- digging
- chewing objects
- play biting
Problem behaviours are normal dog behaviours, but because they are expressed in an inappropriate way, they can cause a lot of issues.
Problem behaviours can be resolved through training and environmental management. We have a range of handouts to help your and your puppy with problem behaviours.
True behavioural problems are abnormal behaviours that are damaging to your puppy’s health.
Some behavioural problems include:
- noise phobias, including fear of thunderstorms
- separation anxiety or a fear of being left alone
- obsessive compulsive behaviours, such as tail chasing or pacing
- aggression towards other dogs or people
True behaviour problems can be treated with a dedicated behaviour modification plan. Some dogs may require medication to help with their behaviour problem.
If you think your dog has a behaviour problem, please contact us for more advice or to book a behaviour consultation.