Dogs are the most beloved pets across the world. They make great companions and offer emotional support, which has been proven to significantly reduce anxiety and depression levels.

But, dogs can also exhibit strange behaviors that can leave you wondering whether there is something wrong with them. Is your dog’s behavior normal, or are there reasons to be concerned? In this article, we discuss some common dog behaviors, why they occur, and whether they are normal or concerning.

1. Barking and Whining

Barking is one of the most common ways in which dogs communicate. Dogs bark to alert their owners of danger, show excitement, fear, or anxiety, among other things. However, excessive barking and whining can be a sign of an underlying problem.

For instance, if your dog barks excessively when left alone, it could be a sign of separation anxiety. Similarly, if your dog barks aggressively, it could be a sign of territorial behavior or aggression.

2. Digging

Dogs have a natural instinct to dig. They do this to create a comfortable spot to lie in or bury their possessions. However, excessive digging can be concerning.

Suppose your dog starts digging holes in your garden, tearing up carpets or furniture, or scratching at walls excessively, or getting obsessive about digging in general. In that case, it could be a sign of anxiety, boredom, or compulsive behavior.

3. Chewing

Dogs like to chew on things. They do this because it is natural behavior and also helps them to keep their teeth and gums healthy.

However, excessive chewing can be concerning, such as destructive chewing that damages furniture, shoes, and other household items. It could be a sign of anxiety, boredom, or underlying medical conditions like dental problems, teething, or gastrointestinal problems. It is a good idea to consult your veterinarian if your dog’s chewing behavior is excessive or destructive.

4. Aggression

Dogs may exhibit aggression if they feel threatened or fearful. They may also become aggressive if something triggers them. Aggressive behavior includes growling, snarling, baring teeth, and biting.

Aggression can be normal in certain situations, such as when a dog feels threatened by a stranger or is protecting their property. However, if your dog displays aggressive behavior towards people or other animals regularly, it could be a sign of underlying behavioral or medical issues.

Consulting a professional dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist is recommended in such instances.

5. Jumping and Mouthing

Dogs often jump and mouth when they want to play or greet their owners and other dogs. Although these behaviors are normal, excessive jumping and mouthing should be addressed.

They could be signs of aggressive tendencies and may lead to injuries to people or other animals. It is important to train your dog consistently to avoid unwanted behavior.

6. Inappropriate Elimination

Dogs may eliminate in inappropriate places if they are suffering from medical or behavioral issues. Medical conditions like urinary tract infections or gastrointestinal problems can lead to inappropriate urination or defecation.

Behavioral issues like anxiety, fear, or territoriality can also cause inappropriate elimination. It is important to identify the underlying cause and address it.

7. Excessive Licking

Dogs often lick their paws, owners, and other dogs as a form of affection or to relieve stress. However, excessive licking can cause skin irritation, infections, and even neurotic behavior.

If your dog is obsessively licking themselves or objects, it could be a sign of an underlying medical or behavioral issue. Consulting a veterinarian is recommended.

8. Fear and Anxiety

Fear and anxiety are common in dogs, especially during thunderstorms or fireworks. They may show signs of shaking, pacing, barking, or hiding when they experience such situations.

Although these behaviors are normal, excessive fear and anxiety could be a sign of underlying medical or behavioral issues. Consulting with a veterinarian or professional animal behaviorist is recommended.

9. Protective Behavior

Dogs are protective of themselves, their owners, and their property. It is natural behavior for dogs to bark or snarl at strangers to protect their territory or family, but this behavior can become aggressive if not monitored.

If your dog becomes possessive or protective, it could be a sign of underlying anxiety, territorial issues, or aggression.

10. Hyperactivity

Hyperactivity is normal behavior in some dogs, especially younger dogs. However, if your dog is excessively active and seems to be unable to calm down no matter what you do, it could be a sign of attention seeking behavior, anxiety, or hyperthyroidism.

Consulting a veterinarian is recommended if the behavior seems concerning.

Conclusion

Dogs exhibit various behaviors, and it’s important to understand what is normal and what is not. The above behaviors are common but can be concerning if they occur excessively or in an abnormal context.

If you notice any concerning behavior in your dog, consulting a professional animal behaviorist or veterinarian is recommended.