Whether they want to admit it or not, most dog owners have to hire a dog trainer or attend an obedience class at some point. This is normal. With so much information now available on the internet, you can probably do a lot of minimal dog training yourself. However, there are some very minor issues that can become major problems. They may not even seem like behavioral problems now, but they can and will grow into major riots. Before that happens, you need to have a trainer's number in hand. So if you see any of these symptoms, it's a good idea to hire a dog trainer.
Growl/bite Growling and snapping are some of the early signs of aggression in dogs. Most serious bites come from dogs that started out with very light warning growls and snaps that escalated into full-blown attacks. It doesn't matter why, or when your dog has growled or snapped, it must be taught that the behavior is unacceptable. Hire a trainer immediately and be honest with yourself about the danger this could pose if it escalates.
Run away Running away is a very serious problem that many dog owners face. It is considered a serious problem because it poses a safety concern for both your dog and other people. If your dog slips, he can easily end up on the street where dangerous traffic awaits. Further, he might run off to chase or attack an unsuspecting neighbor, mail carrier, or neighborhood dog. Whatever the reason, your dog should know to stay home unless you release him to follow you outside.
Jump Jumping is one way dogs show their love and affection, but it's largely inappropriate. Jumping hurts. People are scratched and knocked over and can even be seriously injured. Even if your dog means well, make sure they know that jumping on people is never an option. Being a responsible dog owner means showing your dog ways to show affection that won't scare or hurt anyone.
Monitor objects Even if it's your dog's favorite bone, your dog should never growl or bite if someone tries to remove it. Keeping objects is a very serious problem and should be addressed immediately by a trainer. Your dog may decide to guard anything – a toy, treat, food, bones, a couch, bed, chair, etc. This basically means that your dog will claim the said item as his own and will defend it aggressively if necessary.
Pull the lead
Pulling on the leash may seem like a small behavior, but it can become something more. First, your dog that you drag around is quite annoying and uncomfortable. But the most important thing is that you often have no control at all and your dog takes you where he wants to go. Your walk should be in your direction, not your dog's. Heavy pulling will often strain your muscles and you may even fall. This is dangerous for everyone, especially if your dog approaches a strange person or animal.
These behaviors often seem very minor, but can become very serious very quickly. It's best to hire a professional trainer at the very first sign rather than waiting for you, your dog, or anyone else to be harmed. Even if your sweet dog means well, bad behavior is frowned upon. Remember, it's our responsibility to make sure our dogs are good dog neighbours!
