Behaviour problems in dogs

A behaviour problem is defined as an action displayed by a dog that is unacceptable. There are many different types and signs of behaviour problems in dogs. Any age of dog can be affected. Behaviour problems may start off as minor but unless solutions are sought quickly, they can quickly worsen and become very frustrating to treat. Improving behaviour problems can be a slow process; patience and perseverance are needed.

Research from the latest PDSA animal wellbeing report indicates that 60% of vets have seen an increase in the number of dogs with behavioural problems in the last few years. 48% also reported an increase in euthanasia due to behaviour problems. This is thought to be due to three main causes: a lack of socialisation, a lack of puppy training and a lack of owner understanding when it comes to dog behaviour.

What to do

What to do if your dog has a behaviour problem

If your dog is showing signs of a suspected behavioural problem, it’s best to speak to a vet as soon as possible.

Your vet may need to rule out underlying medical causes before diagnosing a behavioural cause.
Once medical causes are ruled out, your vet will most likely advise a behaviour specialist.
A referral to a behavioural specialist is always beneficial, especially if there is aggression involved.
When choosing a behaviourist, it’s important to make sure you check their accreditations. It is extremely important to find someone suitably qualified who uses ethical and up-to-date techniques.
Your vet will be able to help you find a suitable behaviourist; many only work with referrals. See the following organisations for more information about behaviour specialists

ABTC (Animal Behaviour and Training Council) is a regulatory body that sets and maintains standards for the profession and has a national register for appropriately qualified animal trainers and behaviourists.
CCAB (Certified Clinical Animal Behaviourist) is an accreditation scheme by the ASAB (Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour).
FAB (Fellowship of Animal Behaviour Clinicians) has a list of certified members and promotes high ethical standards and up-to-date techniques.
APBC (Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors) is a network of experienced and qualified counsellors.

Behavioural problems can escalate quickly. It’s best to seek veterinary advice as soon as possible. Our Joii vets are accessible 24 hours a day. We have several behaviour referral options available too.

Causes

Common causes of behaviour problems in dogs

Inadequate socialisation and training
Inappropriate mental and physical stimulation, leading to boredom
Constant routine changes
Medical issues, such as pain or chronic illness, can also lead to behaviour problems
Lack of owner understanding of normal and abnormal dog behaviour
Genetics (temperament)
Inappropriate diet

When to worry

When to worry about behaviour problems in dogs

Seek help from your local vet practice if:

Your dog shows any form of aggressive behaviour
Your dogs behaviour suddenly changes
Your dog is showing signs of pain
Your dog is losing weight

Call and speak to one of our Joii vets if:

You have any questions about socialising your dog
You think your dog might have a behaviour problem
You want advice about mental or physical stimulation for dogs
You have any questions about finding an appropriate behaviourist

Prevention

Tips on how to prevent behaviour problems in dogs

Before getting a dog, make sure you read into the breed and their specific needs. Make sure you know how much exercise and training they need.
Socialise your dog: this is especially important between 4 & 12 weeks.
Take your dog to training classes as early as possible. And teach your dog commands at home and make it into a fun reward-based activity.
Ensure adequate enrichment for their age and breed: both physical and mental.
Make sure you use a balanced diet appropriate for your dog’s age and lifestyle.
Never handle your dog inappropriately or punish them; this can lead to stress.
Take your dog for regular (at least yearly) vet checks to catch any illness early
Try to avoid routine changes (especially sudden changes). If you or your dog’s routine is going to change, try to help them adjust gradually.

Diagnosis

How do you know if your dog has a behaviour problem?

The most common types of behavioural problems in dogs include:

Minor issues or bad habits

Excessive barking
Lead pulling
Jumping up at people
Inappropriate toileting
Humping

Behaviour problems in dogs — Excessive barking is a common issue for dog owners

Serious problems

Noise phobias
Separation anxiety
Aggressive behaviour: such as resource guarding and fear aggression. Can be directed to other dogs, animals, or humans.
Chewing and destructive behaviour
PICA: eating objects that are not food items, such as stones or dirt

Home treatment

How to help at home: behaviour problems in dogs

If your dog shows any signs of behavioural problems, especially aggression, it’s best to speak to a vet as soon as possible. You can help at home by:

Monitoring your dog for any signs of illness, such as vomiting or weight loss
Keeping a consistent routine for your dog
Implementing and sticking to any changes suggested by your vet or behaviourist
Using any prescription medication as advised

Vet treatment

Treatment of behaviour problems in dogs

Treatment and resolution of behaviour problems are not usually an overnight fix. Patience and perseverance are needed. The treatment will depend on the cause and severity of the behaviour problem. It will usually involve an adaptation plan at home along with the use of behavioural medications.

Treatment usually includes:

Ruling out any underlying medical problems: this may include a full physical exam, blood tests, urine tests and imaging (e.g. x-rays).
Finding the underlying cause(s) and adapting to stop or reduce them. It is usually necessary to seek the help of a behavioural specialist to do this. It’s known as a behaviour modification plan.
Prescription medications: can help improve the responsiveness of dogs to their new programme but have limited value when used alone. There are both short- and long-term options, depending on the type of problem.
Other products: such as calming supplements or pheromone diffusers.
Monitoring and modifying the plan depending on the outcome.

Risk

Are some dogs more at risk of behaviour problems than others?

Any dog, regardless of age, breed, or gender, can develop a behaviour problem. Similar to humans, dogs are individuals, and their reactions to situations vary. Some dog breeds may exhibit a predisposition towards specific traits, such as aggression. But it’s essential to understand that breed alone does not dictate a dog’s behaviour.

However, certain risk factors can contribute:

Inadequate socialisation during puppyhood may result in future fear-related issues.
Underlying health conditions like arthritis-induced pain.
Older dogs are more susceptible to dementia, which can influence anxiety levels.
Young dogs are more prone to PICA.
Rescue dogs with pre-existing challenges.