Dogs don’t speak our language, but they communicate with us every day through their behavior. In fact, behavior is one of the most honest forms of communication—whether for us humans or our furry companions. I’ve always believed that to truly understand someone, you should not only listen to their words but also pay close attention to their actions. And when it comes to dogs, their behavior never lies.
When your dog acts out, is confused, displays aggressive traits, becomes destructive, or is slow to respond, they’re trying to tell you something. The challenge is learning to listen and respond effectively. Here are three ways you can make changes based on your dog’s behavior:
1. Adjust Your Routine: Sometimes, a shift in your routine can make all the difference. Perhaps your dog needs more exercise to burn off excess energy. Maybe they need a job or some mental stimulation. Or it could be that the kids are too loud, and your dog needs a quiet, safe space to retreat when things get too rambunctious. Listening to what your dog is telling you can lead to small changes that have a big impact.
2. Commit to More Training: Dogs often act out because they don’t understand what we expect from them. It’s surprising how few commands many dogs know beyond their name, “sit,” and “treat.” Without a solid vocabulary, it’s hard to redirect unwanted behavior. The good news is that training doesn’t require more time—just more intention. Make the most of the time you already spend with your dog by reinforcing the behaviors you want to see more of.
3. When All These Fail, Consider Rehoming When Necessary: In some cases, despite your best efforts and ruling out medical issues, your home may not be the right fit for your dog. I’ve seen dogs develop anxiety or destructive behaviors in one home, only to thrive again when returned to a foster family or another home. It’s as if the dog is saying, “This isn’t the place for me.” If this happens, forcing a dog to stay can be unfair to both you and the dog.
Rehoming isn’t always about giving up—it’s about finding the right environment where the dog can thrive. The process may take time, and you might face criticism from others. But if you’ve done everything you can and are ensuring your dog goes to a trusted home, you can feel at peace with this decision. Rescue organizations and professionals can help guide you through this difficult choice to ensure the best outcome for everyone.
If your dog’s behavior is puzzling, disruptive, or causing stress, don’t navigate it alone. Join us for our Dog Owner Support Group on Tuesday, September 2, at 11:30 a.m. ET. It’s just an hour, free, and on Zoom—so no travel time needed. Click here to register!
Bring your questions and your experiences. Together, we’ll share insights, offer support, and learn from one another.