Understanding Your Dog's Behaviour: what to do if you think you have a 'stubborn' dog.

Sitting with your dogs and doing nothing together is a fantastic way to bond and reward calmness.

Understanding Your Dog's Behaviour: The A, B, C's of Canine Actions

As a board and train specialist, I’ve worked with countless dogs of all ages, breeds, and temperaments. One thing I’ve learned is that behind every wag, bark, or unwanted behaviour, there’s always a reason. Our dogs are constantly communicating with us through their actions, and understanding the why behind their behaviours is the key to effective training and building a trusting relationship.

In the dog training world, we often refer to the "A, B, C’s" of behaviour, which stands for Antecedent, Behaviour, and Consequence. Simply put:

Antecedent: What happens before the behaviour (the trigger or cause).

Behaviour: The actual action the dog takes.

Consequence: What happens after the behaviour (reward or correction).

Let’s break down some common factors that influence a dog’s behaviour:

1. Genetics

Some behaviours are ingrained in your dog’s DNA. Every breed has been developed with a specific purpose in mind, whether it's herding, guarding, retrieving, or companionship. This genetic predisposition can influence behaviours such as chasing, barking, or even anxiety levels. While training can help manage these tendencies, it’s important to recognize and respect a dog’s natural instincts.

2. Overstimulation

In today’s fast-paced world, dogs can easily become overwhelmed by their surroundings. Loud noises, chaotic environments, or even too much excitement can lead to hyperactivity, barking, or destructive behaviours. Overstimulation can make it hard for a dog to focus, and they may resort to unwanted behaviours as a way to cope.

3. Emotional State

Dogs, like humans, experience a range of emotions, from joy and excitement to fear and anxiety. A dog’s emotional state plays a huge role in how they behave. A nervous or fearful dog may display aggressive or avoidant behaviours, while a happy and relaxed dog is more likely to engage positively. Understanding a dog's emotional needs and cues is critical for their well-being.

4. Pain or Illness

When a dog is in pain or unwell, their behaviour often changes. They may become irritable, withdrawn, or aggressive. It’s important to rule out any underlying health issues when dealing with sudden changes in behaviour. Regular vet check-ups are essential for ensuring your dog’s physical health, which directly impacts their behaviour.

5. Environment

A dog’s environment significantly shapes their behaviour. Dogs thrive in stable, predictable settings. A chaotic or inconsistent environment can cause stress, leading to anxiety or behavioural issues. On the flip side, a calm and structured home can help foster positive behaviours. Environmental changes, such as a new home or family member, can also temporarily alter a dog's behaviour.

6. Unmet Needs

Dogs, like all animals, have basic needs that must be met for them to feel secure and balanced. These include physical exercise, mental stimulation, social interaction, and adequate rest. If these needs go unmet, a dog may develop undesirable behaviours, such as excessive barking, chewing, or digging, as a way to release pent-up energy or frustration.

7. Past Experiences and Associations

Dogs are incredibly associative learners. Their past experiences, especially negative ones, can have a lasting impact on their behaviour. A dog that was previously mistreated, for example, might develop a fear of certain people or environments. Traumatic experiences can lead to behavioural issues, such as fear-based aggression or avoidance.

8. Inappropriate or Inconsistent Training

Training inconsistency is one of the leading causes of undesirable behaviour in dogs. If a dog receives mixed signals about what’s expected of them, they become confused and anxious. Consistency is key when it comes to training. A dog needs to know that certain behaviours lead to specific consequences every time. Inconsistent training can cause frustration, leading to misbehaviour or non-compliance.

Putting it All Together: A Holistic Approach to Dog Behaviour

When it comes to addressing a dog’s behaviour, it’s essential to consider all the factors—genetics, environment, emotional state, and more. By understanding the "A, B, C's" and looking beyond the behaviour itself, you can begin to identify the root cause and implement effective solutions.

As a board and train specialist, my goal is to not only curb unwanted behaviours by ensuring that all the dog's needs are met but to help dogs and their families communicate better. Whether it's addressing overstimulation, meeting unmet needs, or working through past traumas, every dog deserves a chance to thrive in a balanced and supportive environment.

By taking the time to understand why your dog behaves the way they do, you can build a stronger, more trusting bond with your canine companion—one based on patience, empathy, and consistent guidance.

By educating yourself on these influencing factors, you'll gain the insight needed to address behavioural concerns at their core, ensuring a happy, well-adjusted dog. Dogs are not inherently stubborn it is typically the environment, anxiety, pain or discomfort that may make it look like your dog is just being stubborn.