Common Dog Problems: Causes and Solutions
Dogs are really fun to be with, but dog problems can also be very annoying. Barking, for instance, is a common problem. Naturally, dogs bark as a form of communication. They also do this to signify exertion of dominance, territorial protection, or expression of need. In addition, they bark when they want to alert their owners of intruders as well as when they get bored, stressed, or excited.
When the barking of the dog becomes excessive, however, there may be underlying causes such as genetics, improper confinement, or environmental sounds that affects the behavior. Before you find a solution for your dog’s barking problem, see to it that you have verified the cause. Once you have known the cause, only then will you be able to find the right solution.
Certain breeds of dogs bark louder and more often than the others. So, if you are planning to get a quieter type of dog, stay away from terriers. Consider Basenjis or Greyhounds instead. You may also want to check the housing of your dog. Make sure that it gets enough legroom. You should also take it out for a walk regularly. Dogs that do not get enough exercise release their pent-up energy through barking.
If you work during the day and you leave your dog alone in the house often, it may become stressed or bored. As a result, it will keep on barking to pass time. Certain sounds may trigger its barking, as well. These could be passing cars, thunder, phone ringing, and people talking. To prevent your dog from being a problem to your neighbors, try to come home early to keep it company. You may also leave some toys and treats.
Other common dog problems are inappropriate elimination and digging. Now, these problems can be very frustrating. Lack of training, anxiety, and territorial marking can prompt a dog to urinate or defecate on your floor or rug. It can also run outdoors to dig up your garden or yard. If you do not control such behaviors, you may spend a ton of money on new carpets, rugs, furniture, pots, and seedlings. You will also need to spend more time in cleaning up the mess.
To find the right solution, visit your local veterinarian and have your dog examined. See if the causes of its unpleasant behaviors are not medically related. You can call a professional trainer to teach your dog how to eliminate waste properly. You may also train it yourself by rewarding it every time it defecates or urinates in the designated area. You may also set up a digging place such as a sandbox.
Moreover, if your dog has chewing and biting problems, make sure that you keep your personal belongings away from it. Try to cover your furniture and give your dog chew toys. Buy a plush toy in which you can put some treats. Do not tolerate its inappropriate chewing and biting. Discipline it accordingly. Also, make sure that your pet gets enough exercise to get rid of such dog problems.
Take care of your dog, feed him with best meal on the market today, choose Kirkland dog food.
