Every January, National Train Your Dog Month reminds us that a well‑trained dog isn’t just a joy to live with – it’s a safer, healthier companion for both humans and other animals.
While many canine behaviors are simply frustrating, others can escalate into dangerous situations that lead to injuries, strained relationships, and, tragically, surrender or euthanasia. The good news is that most of these behaviors are preventable or reversible with early intervention, consistent training and compassionate guidance.
An additional pointer is that rescue dogs may have given up due to unwanted or even biting behaviors. I suggest all rescues be evaluated by a behaviorist before allowing them to interact unsupervised with kids and other pets.
Why Early Training Matters
Dogs understand the behaviors they learn from their mothers and in a pack, but they do not instinctively know your commands or how to behave in a human world. They learn through consistency, repetition, reinforcement and clear communication.
When unwanted behaviors are ignored or misunderstood, they often intensify, leading to both animal and human frustration. What starts as a minor nuisance can quickly become a safety risk. National Train Your Dog Month encourages dog owners to recognize that when humans become frustrated, it is likely their dog is also confused and frustrated. Your annoyance and frustration is a sign it is time to seek professional assistance for training.
Two reputable online behavioral resources for pet owners are Drs. Ian Dunbar and Susan Garrett. If you cannot find or afford a professional in-home behaviorist, start online training.
Common Annoying Behaviors That Often Worsen
1. Jumping on People
A dog jumping up may seem harmless – sometimes even cute, especially when they’re small or young. But allowing this behavior to continue results in control issues and possible injury – they can knock over children, elderly individuals, or anyone with mobility challenges.
Not everyone is a dog person, and when people have had a bite injury or other trauma, a jumping dog is especially frightening. They may harm visitors and create liability concerns. Dogs jump because they’re excited or seeking attention, but without training, this enthusiasm can cause real harm.
Bonus Tip: Your pets should not be allowed to jump on their vet and technicians at their visits.
2. Pulling on the Leash
Leash pulling is one of the most common complaints among dog owners. This is more than an annoyance, as it can lead to falls, shoulder injuries, or dangerous encounters with traffic or other dogs. A dog that walks ahead of the owner or drags its handler is not under control; lack of control is often the first step toward more serious behavioral issues. Work with a behaviorist or trainer to have your dog fitted with the ideal collar to get the most control during your pet’s training.
3. Excessive Barking
Barking is a natural form of communication, but chronic barking can signal anxiety, frustration, feelings of neglect or territorial behavior. It can also escalate into reactive or aggressive responses when a dog feels overwhelmed. Excessive barking often strains relationships with neighbors and can be a major reason dogs are surrendered to shelters.
4. Resource Guarding
Growling, snapping or biting over food, toys, a particular person the dog believes is “their human” or their resting spots is a serious red flag. While resource guarding is rooted in instinct, it can escalate quickly to human injury or killing another household pet (over the years, I have had many owners bring pets into the office injured or killed by another animal in their household), if not addressed through behavioral training and appropriate supervision during the re-training process. Children and other pets are especially at risk.
Early intervention with a behaviorist and desensitization to the situations that cause the resource guarding are essential to prevent this behavior from becoming dangerous.
5. Uncontrolled Herding or Chasing
Many breeds have strong herding or prey instincts. These breeds need proper outlets for their natural drives. Even with training, these instincts can lead to chasing cars, bicycles, wildlife, and or children. What begins as playful nipping or chasing can result in bites, accidents, or legal consequences.
6. Fear-Based Behaviors
Fear is a common cause of aggression in dogs. Signs such as cowering, hiding, trembling, growling or snapping should never be dismissed. When owners make excuses for these behaviors, they typically worsen.
A fearful dog may bite if cornered or startled. Be mindful of children and other pets approaching your dog when they show these signs. Early socialization, positive reinforcement, and professional support can help prevent fear from turning into aggression.
7. Dog-to-Dog Aggression
Some dogs struggle with social skills, especially if they missed early socialization opportunities. Lunging, barking, or snapping at other dogs can escalate into fights that injure pets and people trying to intervene. This behavior is a major reason dogs are relinquished to shelters. Avoid dog parks and dog daycare situations until you get clearance from a pet behaviorist if your dog displays any of the mentioned dog-aggression signs.
The Consequences of Ignoring Problem Behaviors
When unwanted behaviors go unaddressed, the risks multiply. Injuries to humans or other pets can lead to legal action, financial strain, and emotional trauma. Many overwhelmed owners feel they have no choice but to surrender their dog. Shelters often see dogs with treatable behavioral issues that became unmanageable simply because help came too late. In the worst cases, dogs with severe aggression may be deemed unsafe and face euthanasia.
Training as Prevention — and Compassion
Training isn’t about dominance or punishment; it’s about communication, structure, and trust. Positive reinforcement methods – rewarding desired behaviors rather than punishing unwanted ones—are proven to be the most effective and humane approach. Early training builds confidence, reduces anxiety, and strengthens the bond between dog and owner.
National Train Your Dog Month is a reminder that every dog deserves guidance, patience and the chance to learn. Whether you’re teaching basic manners, addressing a specific issue, or seeking help from a certified trainer or behaviorist, taking action early can save lives.
Make Training Your Dog One of Your New Year Resolutions
This January, commit to understanding your dog’s behavior and investing in their training. Celebrate National Train Your Dog Month by setting goals, practicing daily skills, and seeking support when needed. By addressing annoying or dangerous behaviors before they escalate, you protect your dog, your family, and your community – and you give your canine companion the best possible chance at a safe, happy, and lifelong home.
Dr. Cynthia Maro is a veterinarian at the Ellwood Animal Hospital in Ellwood City and the Chippewa Animal Hospital in Chippewa Township. She writes a biweekly column on pet care and health issues. If you have a topic you’d like to have addressed, email ellwoodvet@msn.com.
This article originally appeared on Beaver County Times: Understanding annoying, dangerous dog behaviors before they escalate