Why Does My Dog Do That? Dog Behavior 101

Dog Behavior

Get Your Dog to Live Longer and Healthier Lives when You Put Them On A Raw Food Diet

Why do dogs have wet noses?  What’s up with those whiskers and wagging tails?  Why does my dog bark or growl?  Why does he sniff other dogs’ behinds, and why does he hump my neighbor’s leg?

Dogs are a lot of fun to have around, and they do some pretty funny things.  Let’s take a look at some common dog behaviors, and answer some common questions.

Why is My Dog Humping Random Objects?

Unless your dog is an unneutered male, mating with an intact female in heat, then he or she is engaging in the behavior we call “humping” as a means of domination.  You’ll see male dogs humping each other, females humping females, and females humping males.  This activity is just a means of asserting dominance.  Some dogs hump their toys, and some hump the furniture.  Some hump legs – and when that happens, it’s time to call in the dog trainer!   It’s up to you to decide where to draw the line when it comes to humping.

The RAW Dog Food Diet Will Make Your Dog Healthier, Happier And They’ll Love You All The More For It!

Why Is My Dog Wagging His Tail and Growling?

Isn’t a wagging tail always a sign of a happy dog?  Not always.  If your dog’s tail is wagging very stiffly at the tip as he is growling, he is giving a stern warning.  If he tucks his tail between his legs and wags it, then he is scared.  If he is wagging and smiling (watch for it!) he is overjoyed about something.

Should My Dog Have a Wet Nose, or a Dry Nose?

Dogs cannot sweat, so they cool themselves off by panting, and their nose also gets wet when they’re very hot.  Don’t worry too much about the state of your dog’s nose, unless it is hot and dry, and he is lethargic, or unless he has a case of the sniffles.  If either of these two things happens, your dog could be sick.

Should I Cut My Dog’s Whiskers?

The answer: Absolutely not!  Whiskers are very sensitive, and they help a dog to find his way in the world.  Imagine how you would feel if your sense of touch was inhibited for some reason.  Whiskers are part of your dog’s senses, and you should never cut them.

Why is My Dog Digging?

Digging is a natural dog behavior.  You can help put a stop to it by giving your dog plenty of things to do, and providing lots of stimulation for her.  You can even create a special place for her to dig.  Remember, punishing a dog for natural behavior is not fair; and, it does not work.  The dog will only continue the behavior when you’re not around to punish him.

Why is My Dog Eating Poop?

Poop eating, or coprophagia, is caused by a few different things.  Some dogs eat their own stools because their food has not been completely digested.  Dogs eat poop due to malnourishment, vitamin deficiencies, and internal parasites.

If your dog has a poop eating problem, then you should talk to your vet about it. There are great supplements to stop poop eating,  and if you put your dog on a high quality diet, the behavior should stop.

Discover How You Can Start Your Puppy or Your Dog On A Raw Food Diet Today!

These are just a few of the things that puzzle us about our dogs and their behavior.  If something seems unusual, check with a dog trainer or vet – soon, you’ll have the answers you are looking for!