How to Reverse Bad Dog Habits

Correct your dog's behavior problems by providing proper leadership and by setting rules and boundaries for your pet. This will help the dog to understand its place and what you expect of it. A number of bad behaviors, such as aggression, pulling on the leash, stealing food and jumping up on guests, often develop when a dog sees itself as the alpha dog of its pack or family, according to the Dog Breed Info Center. Destructive behaviors, such chewing, digging and excessive barking can be caused by lack of exercise.

Things You'll Need

  • Leash
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Instructions

    • 1

      Show your dog that you are its pack leader and encourage it to trust and respect you. Make it sit and wait quietly before giving food or affection. Only feed the dog after the family have finished eating as the dog will understand that the alpha dogs eat first and the subordinates eat second. Do not allow your dog to sleep on your bed or jump up on furniture as these are high positions that will reinforce its dominance. Avoid letting a small dog claim you by growling at others while you are holding it. Say "No!" when your dog does this and immediately place it on the ground.

    • 2

      Take your dog for a walk on a daily basis to help drain its excess energy and to prevent the dog from becoming frustrated. Wait for your dog to become calm before leaving the house. Walk slightly in front of your dog to encourage it to see you as its leader instead of its follower. Correct it for attempting to pull you or walk in front by giving a quick sideways tug on the leash and saying "No!" in a firm tone of voice. Always make the dog wait until all other family members have entered the house before allowing it to walk inside.

    • 3

      Enroll your dog in obedience classes to gain more control of your pet and to allow it to socialize with different people and dogs. Socialization should be done as early as possible to prevent the dog from developing aggression towards unfamiliar people or dogs. Once you have successfully completed basic obedience training with your dog, continue with trick training or agility exercises to provide essential mental stimulation that will prevent your dog from becoming destructive.