Understanding Your Dog's Behavior and Keeping Him Happy

Hello Everyone,

It's been a hectic time for me lately because I am currently competing in a website competition. Since my time is limited these next few weeks, today's post is from a special guest. Please welcome Rupert Brown, from MuddyPaws.co.uk.

Understanding Your Dog's Behavior

Having a dog takes up a huge amount of your time. They effectively become a member of the family. They'll be running to the front door to greet you when you come in and put their head in your lap if you've had a bad day. Your dog has as much of a personality as you do and, consequently, they have feelings as well.

Positive Behavior

If you want your dog to be happy, you need to pay attention to his or her moods. Different breeds have certain traits that you need to be aware of. For example, it is in the nature of a terrier to dig, in the same way as it is for a sheepdog to herd. These traits can affect their personality, but so can your behavior. Dogs recognize different tones of voice so if your dog does something to be proud of, tell them. Use an enthusiastic voice and smile. If you have a smaller breed, pick them up and give them a cuddle.

Making a fuss of your pet will help them to understand that they've done something good, increasing the chances of them repeating it. Rewarding them with healthy treats if they have behaved exceptionally well will help them to make the connection that good behavior equals tasty delights.

Don't Ignore Bad Behavior

Similarly, if they have misbehaved, it's important to make them understand but not to frighten them. Hitting a dog on the nose or around the facial area will provoke fear and they may lash out or bite you as a defence mechanism. Using a stern voice and repeating certain words such as 'naughty' will help the dog to understand that they have done something wrong but they also won't be frightened. The more often they hear the negative word, the sooner they will realize that what they're doing isn't right.

If you find your dog has behaved badly but you don't realize until much later on, it's important not to discipline them. They may struggle to understand what they have done wrong if the incident occurred some time ago and this can confuse them. Some dogs will realize that they have misbehaved when you discover what they've done and you can tell this by their reaction to you.

Understand Their Behavior

If your dog suddenly starts to behave in a submissive manner when you walk into a room and find the curtains have been ripped down, chances are they already know they're in trouble, indicating that their behavior is a cry for attention. Make a note of this, particularly if they repeat the behavior and continue to use the negative word if they show an understanding, to remind them that they have been naughty.

Think about why your dog is behaving in a certain way. It may be just because they particularly enjoy doing something or have developed a habit such as chewing. Many dogs chew shoes but if you give them an alternative and keep taking the shoes away, you might be able to break the habit. If they act up when a certain person is in the house, it could be their influence. Ensure any disciplinary rules are kept with everyone in the house. There is no point in you telling your dog it's naughty to take your socks if your partner then gives them socks to play with. Avoid confusion and your dog will be happy to accommodate some basic rules, particularly if they know they'll get cuddles, treats or walks out of it.

Rupert Brown is the Managing Director of Muddy Paws, a leading UK retailer of dog products. He lives in the stunning county of Dorset in southern England with his family and dog (as well as Muddy Paws product tester!) Oscar.

Let's Discuss!

What are some things that help you understand your dog's behavior?

Puppy Socialization At Petco

Photo by Lars Christiansen

One of the most challenging tasks as a dog owner is to properly socialize your dog. If your puppy is naturally shy or skittish a puppy socialization class is a great way to go.

Petco Puppy Socialization Classes

One of the best ways to exercise your dog is by having a play session. Petco Pet Stores offers free puppy socialization classes. Petco has stores located all over the United States. It builds their tolerance of other dogs and gives the owner a sense of how well your dog can adjust in unfamiliar situations.

It's a great way for your dog to be social and will be a good base to build upon when your take it to other places like parks, beaches and campgrounds. Homer, Cookie and Gigi seemed to enjoy this and I learned quite a bit about his interactions in a controlled environment. He seems to like his room and is better suited for a dog park or the local dog beach.

If you would like to see if Petco offers a puppy socialization class in your area, you'll want to check out their store locator.

Let's Discuss!

Have you been to Petco's socialization classes? What was the greatest benefit for your dog?

Good Dogs = Live Long

Photo by C Jessen

The American Naturalist recently published a journal article where dogs who are more obedient tend to live longer than dogs who are more difficult to train. Dogs that tend to be more obedient tend to be dogs such as German Shepherds and Poodles. Dogs that have more of a stubborn streak are breeds like the Beagle and the Pomeranian.

Dogs that have a higher energy level and more aggressive tendencies are more likely to live shorter lives. Also, dogs affected by separation anxiety fall into this category as well. While breeds have typical characteristics no dog is ever typical, as there are exceptions to every rule.

If you would like to read more about this you can view the full article at USA Today.

Let's Discuss!

Have you had similar experiences with your dog? What is the toughest breed you've ever cared for?

Thanks for stopping in. Have a great day.