These are the 8 most misunderstood dog behaviors explained.\u00a0 Misunderstood dog behaviors can stem from a variety of things.\u00a0 Often caused by our misinterpretation or lack of understanding of dog body language and thinking.<\/p>\n
While growling can appear aggressive to people, it’s a dog’s way of expressing discomfort, fear, or stress. It’s often a warning signal, not always a sign of aggression. Understanding the context and triggers behind the growl is crucial.\u00a0 Many dog breeds can be targeted as aggressive breeds.\u00a0 This behavior can be a result of a high intelligence and protective instinct.\u00a0 Appropriate training, early socialization and an understanding of triggers can transform these pups into great canine citizens.\u00a0 Dogtopia of Viera dog daycare can help pups with socialization in a safe consistent environment.\u00a0 We understand the 8 most misunderstood dog behaviors.<\/p>\n
Dogs bark for all kinds of reasons.\u00a0 It’s is a great way to communicate with people and other animals around them.\u00a0 Barking can be a form of alerting their pack, be it human, or other dogs, or seeking attention. Excessive barking can be a sign of boredom, anxiety, or a need for stimulation rather than just being noisy.\u00a0 It is often misunderstood by the pet parent and regarded as just a nuisance.\u00a0 Make sure your pup gets plenty of exercise.\u00a0 Dogs require at least 60-90 minutes of activity per day.\u00a0 Dog walks, fetch in the backyard, and doggie daycare at Dogtopia of Viera are good ways to tire your dog out. Remember, tired dogs are quiet dogs!<\/p>\n
Contrary to popular beliefs, tail wagging isn’t always a sign of friendliness. It depends on how<\/em> the tail is moving.\u00a0 The speed, height, and stiffness of the wag can convey different emotions. A fast, high wag might indicate excitement or arousal, while a slow, low wag could signal insecurity or potential aggression.\u00a0 A tick tock motion of a tail means your dog is feeling uncertain or alerted to a potential danger.\u00a0 If your pup’s tail drops or is rooted between their legs, your dog is feeling scared or insecure.\u00a0 A fast wagging tail or a tail that is wagging in a circular pattern means your dog is happy, ecstatic even.\u00a0 We see this when our pups know they are headed to Dogtopia Viera for their Most Exciting Day Ever!<\/p>\n I can’t get my dog to stop jumping up!\u00a0 We hear this so often from pet parents.\u00a0 Dogs have many reasons that they jump up.\u00a0 They often jump up to greet people. This behavior can be misunderstood as dominance or aggression. In reality, it’s most often a result of excitement and a desire for attention. Teaching different ways to greet can help manage this behavior.\u00a0 An excited dog takes patience and kindness to work with.\u00a0 Set your dog up for success.\u00a0 Catch them being good!\u00a0 When your pup jumps up, calmly redirect them to sit.\u00a0 Once they are seated, shower them with love and attention.\u00a0 They will learn that sitting gets them the love and affection they have been seeking.<\/p>\n Dogs may guard their food, toys, or other items, which is mistaken for possessiveness or aggression. However, resource guarding is a natural behavior stemming from survival instincts. Proper training and management can help address this issue.\u00a0 The first step is to understand the causes and triggers for the guarding behavior.\u00a0 Genetics factors into guarding behavior.\u00a0 Some breeds are more prone to this behavior.\u00a0 A history of resource scarcity can also cause a dog to be more mindful of where their next meal is coming from.\u00a0 Stress can cause guarding behavior to increase or amplify.\u00a0 Some underlying medical conditions can cause resource guarding behavior.<\/p>\n So, what do you do about it?\u00a0 Set up the environment carefully to avoid any unnecessary dangers where the guarding behavior is likely to occur.\u00a0 Slowly and carefully work on desensitization so that your dog can adapt to desired behaviors.\u00a0 Find a high value reward and use when your dog has something that they normally guard.\u00a0 Place or toss the treat close to your pup but far enough that they have to step away from the guarded item.\u00a0 Continue this process increasing distance as your dog responds.\u00a0 Take your time and be patient!\u00a0 This behavior can take time to correct.\u00a0 Be patient and persistent.\u00a0 If the behavior is a danger to you, your family or other pets in the home, you may need to seek professional trainers. https:\/\/www.ccpdt.org\/dog-owners\/certified-dog-trainer-directory\/<\/a><\/p>\n Some dogs urinate when they’re excited or anxious, especially during greetings or when meeting new people or animals. This behavior is misunderstood as a house-training issue or disobedience, but it’s usually a submissive gesture.\u00a0 How is it managed?\u00a0 If the dog is a particularly shy or anxious dog, greet them from the side and not head on. Avoid direct eye contact and punishment of this behavior.\u00a0 If your dog is particularly excited avoid contact until they have settled down.<\/p>\n Dogs chew and dig for various reasons, including boredom, teething, and exploration. These behaviors are natural but can become problematic if not properly managed. Chewing and digging are often cries for help.\u00a0 Dogs need regular exercise and mental stimulation to be their healthiest.\u00a0 Chewing and digging can be signs that they are not getting enough stimulation.\u00a0 Dogtopia of Viera can help.\u00a0 We provide dog day care that offers 8-10 hours of open play in a safe, supervised environment.<\/p>\n Puppies often explore the world with their mouths, which can lead to nipping and mouthing behaviors. While it’s natural for puppies, it’s essential to teach bite inhibition and appropriate chewing habits to prevent this behavior from carrying into adulthood.\u00a0 Offering lots of choices for an adolescent pup to chew gives them an appropriate outlet for the chewing need.<\/p>\n Understanding these behaviors and their underlying motivations can help improve communication and strengthen the bond between dogs and their parents. If problems persist, professional training and behavior modification techniques may be necessary.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Interested in booking any of our daycare<\/a>,\u00a0boarding<\/a>, or spa services<\/a>?\u00a0 Please fill out our online contact form<\/a>\u00a0or call us at\u00a0321-294-4102<\/a> to arrange a meeting with our team. We can\u2019t wait to welcome you and your pet to their new home away from home.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nJumping Up<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Resource Guarding<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Submissive Urination<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Chewing and Digging<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Nipping and Mouthing<\/strong><\/h4>\n