Understanding Your Dog’s Behaviour: Kind and Practical Tips

When we think about “problem behaviours,” it helps to remember: your dog isn’t being difficult — they’re communicating. A dog that jumps up may just be trying to greet you. A chewed sofa might be a sign of stress, boredom, or unmet needs.

Once we see behaviour through this welfare lens, training shifts from correction to connection.

Understanding What’s Going On

Dogs don’t give unwanted behaviours for no reason. Here are three things to keep in mind:

• Body language clues – Ears tucked, a stiff tail, or whale eye are signals that your dog might be worried.

• Triggers – Think about when behaviour happens. Is it the doorbell? Visitors? Thunder? Identifying patterns is half the work.

• Your emotions – Dogs can be emotional mirrors. If you’re tense, they can reflect that back.

Puppy sitting in her pink toy box, looking up at the photographer

Practical, Kind Ways to Support Better Behaviour

Small changes often create the biggest difference:

• Reinforce what you want – Reward calm choices like four paws on the floor or sitting quietly instead of jumping.

• Be consistent – Mixed signals confuse dogs. If you don’t want them on the sofa, give them an alternative, for example, a bed by you feet and redirect them to their bed, using treats.

• Keep a routine – Dogs feel safer when life is predictable. Regular meals, walks, and downtime help reduce anxiety.

• Enrich their world – Scatter feeding, scent games, chews, and puzzle toys give dogs healthy outlets for energy.

• Stay gentle and patient – Harsh words or corrections can shut a dog down. Calm guidance builds trust and connec tion, as well as opening the door for communication.

St. Bernard lying on a wooden floor, with her front paws crossed, tongue lolling

When Extra Support is Needed

Sometimes behaviour issues go deeper than simple training tweaks. Problems like separation anxiety, reactivity, or phobias often need a structured plan.

This is where professional support makes all the difference. A qualified behaviourist uses science-based, force-free methods to help both you and your dog feel safe and supported.

Dog trainer working with dog outdoors

Building a Stronger Bond

Training isn’t about control. It’s about communication, trust, and respect. Every time you meet your dog’s needs and guide them with kindness, you strengthen your relationship.

Celebrate the small wins. Notice the progress. Connection always comes before correction.

Final Thoughts

Behaviour support is a journey, not a quick fix. There will be setbacks, but with patience, consistency, and empathy, you can help your dog feel calmer and more understood.

And when that happens, the reward is huge — a happier, more relaxed dog and a bond built on trust.

If you’d like professional guidance tailored to your dog, I offer online consultations and ongoing support. Together, we can help your dog thrive. Book a session here → Book Online

A Facebook post draft showing Tasha Attwood sitting on the grass in a garden, surrounded by four dogs, with the caption “Tasha Attwood – dog whisperer.”