Ever feel like your dog runs the household like a tiny, furry CEO? Well, you might be dealing with a few spoiled-dog tendencies. The good news is it’s not too late to set gentle boundaries. Catch these 10 signs your pup might be a little too used to getting their way.
10. Lack of Mental or Physical Exercise
An under-exercised or bored dog may act out or become demanding for stimulation. And this can be true even when they have plenty of stuff. Sometimes, they need more than treats or toys. If your dog is seeking attention, chewing, or restless, try short training games, new walking routes, or simple puzzle feeders.
9. Minimal Training and Too Many Free Passes
Your dog can become the trainer instead of the trainee if they rarely “earn” rewards but just get love whenever. In this case, consider a “nothing in life is free” strategy. Make them offer a “sit” before treats, meals, or petting. When you consistently wait for polite behavior, your dog learns how to earn good things.
8. Never Enjoying Being Alone
A dog who whines when you leave or follows you everywhere might lack healthy independence. This can happen when staying with you is always more fun than the alternative. If you spot clinginess, begin short “alone time” in another room with a safe treat or toy, then gradually build up to long stretches of time.
7. Resource Guarding
If your dog snaps, growls, or shields toys or food, it’s a behavior that can escalate. Guarding can develop when dogs feel they must protect valuable items. To address it gently, trade the guarded item for a better treat. Or, you can also teach the “drop it” trick with rewards.
6. Ignoring “Come” Because It’s Not Rewarding
If calling your dog always means the fun is over (like stopping play or leaving the park), they might start to pretend they didn’t hear you. Dogs remember patterns, so “come” can become a word they want to avoid. The fix? Make coming to you a happy thing! Consider giving a tasty treat or playing a quick game before heading home.
5. Furniture Rule Confusion
Cuddling with your pup on the couch is cozy, but if they jump up anytime they like, it can turn into a habit. They might learn that hopping up gets them attention. Also, if your dog thinks they can get on any furniture anytime, it may be harder to teach them to stay off certain spots.
4. Begging for Table Food or Extras
Yes, those hopeful eyes are hard to resist. But giving table scraps often teaches your dog to expect food every time you eat. This can further lead to unwanted behaviors like whining, pawing, or jumping during meals. Health problems may also become an issue over time. Human food is often too salty or fatty, and even small amounts could add extra calories or upset the stomach of your pup.
3. Jumping on Everyone at the Door
Jumping up can look fun, but over time, it can lead to unwanted behavior and even knocked-over guests. This often starts with enthusiastic greetings that reward the jump. To teach a softer way to say hello, ask a “sit” at the door and reward the calm behavior. Consistent practice and ignoring the jumps can help, too.
2. Constant Carrying Instead of Walking
Carrying your dog when they’re capable of walking might feel like love. But over time, it can hold them back. Walking can help dogs build heart health, muscle strength, and stamina. When they miss out on that, they can tire more easily. Encouraging your pup to walk at their own pace can help them stay healthier and more independent.
1. Barking for Walks or Attention
When your dog whines or barks until you give in, it can become the way things always happen. This may start when owners give in to quiet them quickly. Watch out for repeated barking at the door or whining at your side. Instead of giving in, wait for your dog to pause than say “let’s go” and go.