Understanding and Addressing Dog Behavior: Chewing and Barking

1. Introduction

Canines comprise an integral part of almost two-thirds of American households. Whether they are just companions, sporting animals, or service canines aiding individuals with disabilities or aiding law enforcement in tracking down criminals, dogs are a crucial yet often misunderstood component of modern-day society. Even more bewildering, aggressive behaviors like chewing and barking – sometimes by the household family dog – have regrettably been the final straw for some adoption cases leading to unfortunate outcomes for the innocent canine. Understanding canine behavior goes a long way towards mending fractious relationships.
Dogs descended from woodland wolves, and this ancestry manifests markedly in their behavior. A wild canine pack is composed of the alpha male and female (the mother and father), their offspring, and some of the young adults who still live at home. Subordinate animals in the pack may not breed, but instead assist with hunting and pup care. The pack works as a unit to hunt large game, traveling ten to thirty miles a day in pursuit of prey. Pups play-fight to rehearse social interactions and strengthen bonds. Adult canines engage in social rituals within the pack to maintain good order and inform others of their intentions. Outside the hunt, the actions of some pack members, and even an invitation to play, indicate relaxed and friendly intentions. Aggressive displays typically consist of ritual rather than injury.
Dogs are also territorial animals. A household dog regards the home and yard as its territory, marking these with urine. Owners usually interpret this scent-marking behavior as an expression of dominance, yet it is not. By contrast, an aggressive bark-and-growl display is a signal of threat toward a would-be trespasser. Although most dogs seldom need it, they can and do fight intruders to the death if necessary, particularly in fierce, protective breeds. In urban settings, fenced yards and keeping the dog inside the house provide protection and security against theft, injury, and exposure to busy streets. The house also provides a place to rest and sleep – safe at last from competition with other canines, some of which might do harm. Body posture indicates status. An upright body held rigidly, head held high, and looking down on the other is aggressive, dominant. By contrast, a dog that cowers flat and rolls over shows submission, fear. Copies of the latter behavior in an attempt to appease a threatening canine are familiar in pet dogs and sometimes in affectionate human-puppy interactions.
However, there are many reasons to learn about canine behavior. Owning a dog is the same as having a child. It requires unconditional acceptance and love to understand them and be patient with their misunderstanding of the human-dominant world. Chewing and barking are dog behaviors that are often misconstrued as annoyances or mischief, but they have reasons for occurrence. Understanding these behaviors enhances the human-dog relationship and personal insights into the canine world.

1.1. The Nature of Dog Behavior

For humans and dogs alike, chewing and barking are two routines that are embedded in neutral and balanced energy. Most dogs engage in these routines at one time or another, some dogs indulge in such behavior less often, while others act on it more than is needed, as a result of which they get away from being balanced and thus need help of a resolution.

There are different styles of dog chewing that reveal interesting facts about the animal's nature. Dogs have their own innate style of chewing that is often reminiscent of their wild ancestors. For instance, a dog that rips and tears with its canine teeth shows a very high and natural style of chewing, wanting to consume stuff much like wolves do with prey. This type of chewing is usually fine, as most dogs tend to revert back to neutral energy. On the other hand, a dog that grinds and chews and wears its chew back down to gum stubs and has a wide wear pattern shows a low, and dog-unlike energy style of chewing. This routine usually needs to be addressed, as it is the sign that the animal is stuck in the past or present and is averted from being a rounded animal. Sometimes, the chewing activity is attractive to the dogs, and peanut butter used alone or in conjunction with de-stuffing toys not only serves as a reward during a resolution, but also rewards them within themselves overtaking somewhere yet unsafe.

Clearing off the chewing debris can also be used in observing the slightest and finest details involved with chewing, needing the owner involved to do it in full. Barking is another neutral and usually balanced routine that is quite common among dogs to different extents, especially when there are other dogs about. Barking routines differ from chewing routines in that they are always very different in nature rather than similar, bark types being more expressive concerning emotional energy styles and revealing very interesting facts about a dog's nature. There are general bark meanings indicating intent that provide insight into how dogs are feeling, how they feel about their surroundings, and how that affects their dogs owned by people.

2. Common Causes of Chewing and Barking

Whether you have a puppy or an adult dog, chewing and barking can be common behaviors that can quickly turn into problems if not addressed. Understanding why dogs chew and bark excessively is the first step to effectively solving the problem. This article will explore the common causes of chewing and barking, including management tips and suggestions for eliminating or decreasing these behaviors.
As the pet owner, it is important to note that there is usually not just one solution, especially with chewing or barking behaviors that occur over a long period of time. Multiple treatments may need to be used in combination to produce effective results. Here is a look at some of the most common causes of chewing and barking.
There are several reasons dogs chew on or destroy objects. Puppies naturally explore their environments with their mouths. Young dogs also go through a teething phase, and chewing can help soothe sore gums. Unfortunately, this innocent behavior can continue into adulthood. However, adult dogs that chew or destroy objects often do so for different reasons and behaviors must be addressed as soon as possible to prevent future problems.
Curiosity is another common cause of chewing behaviors. Dogs are naturally curious creatures and many chew on items purely because they are interested. Puppies that have not yet been taught what they are supposed to chew on often chew or destroy any object within reach. Adult dogs may outgrow this type of chewing but some may fall back into it if left unsupervised in a new environment that intrigues them.
Boredom is one of the main reasons dogs engage in destructive behaviors, including chewing. Dogs that do not receive sufficient physical and mental stimulation may seek out their own entertainment. Most dogs require a minimum of thirty minutes of vigorous exercise daily, along with interactive playtime and toys to solve. Dogs that do not receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation may resort to chewing to help release pent-up energy. When bored, chewing can also provide stimulation and entertainment.

2.1. Separation Anxiety

Dogs are social animals and often become attached to their family, either people or other pets. When the bond is broken or disturbed when the family leaves the pet home alone, the dog can become anxious. Dogs that become overly attached to their owner may bark, chew, or eliminate indoors when they are left alone. A dog with separation anxiety will often show excessive signs of distress whenever it is separated from its owner. It may follow the owner around the house, wait impatiently at the door, become agitated when it sees the leash or car keys, or bark excessively and relentlessly whine when alone. When left alone, the animals may chew, dig, or paw at doors and windows in an attempt to escape or be destructive with household items.
Other signs of separation anxiety may include urinating, defecating, or vomiting when the owner leaves; starting to bark, chew, or destroy things, or otherwise show signs of anxiety within 30 minutes of the departure; and self-mutilation or injuries caused by trying to escape from a crate or confinement. Some dogs may also show other problems, such as excessive licking, drooling, refusal to eat, or fighting with housemates when the owner leaves. Separation anxiety may be mistaken for simple boredom, as both problems can result in excessive barking or destructive chewing of valuable belongings like shoes, furniture, or carpets.
While boredom usually results in a benign dog being naughty through chewing, digging, or barking inappropriately, dogs with separation anxiety often engage in these behaviors obsessively, furiously, or destructively. In addition, dogs with separation anxiety will usually demonstrate other symptoms of distress, such as following the owner closely about the house, restlessness, excessive whining, salivation, or other hints that they are worried and anxious.

3. Training Techniques for Behavioral Modification

Dog behavioral issues frequently stem from boredom and lack of appropriate mental stimulation. Would you do well to nurture your canine friend’s inner detective? Dogs naturally enjoy solving challenges, performing tasks, and thinking. Doing so creates a naturally enriching environment for them and providing a range of activities will stimulate their minds and teach them behaviors you desire.
A common and effective technique in dog behavior training is positive reinforcement. Dogs tend to repeat their behavior when they are rewarded. By focusing on good behaviors rather than punishment, handlers can reinforce the dog's learning process by rewarding them with verbal praise, physical affection, or special treats when the dog follows a command. Consequently, the dog associates good practices with positive outcomes and learns to repeat the specific actions it was rewarded for in the future.

Dog training refers to using positive reinforcement principles to train dogs. A variety of positive reinforcement training techniques can be effective at correcting various canine behavioral problems, such as aggression. Training can be a variety of positive reinforcement techniques that can be effective at correcting various canine behavioral problems, such as biting, excessive chewing, digging, and barking. Training might range from basic obedience commands, such as "sit" and "down," to more complex tasks, such as tracking or protection work. Some of these behavior problems can cause injury or damage to your beloved dog, to yourself, or to others. These problems often arise from a lack of structure or socialization. The culprit can even be the dog itself if left alone for too long in a boring environment with nothing to do. Destructive behavior can arise from unfulfilled instincts for chewing or digging, and this, in turn, could have disastrous effects.

3.1. Positive Reinforcement Training

One of the most effective training techniques for addressing undesirable dog behaviors is positive reinforcement training. This method involves rewarding desired behaviors in order to increase the likelihood of their occurrence in the future. Positive reinforcement training is based on the principle of operant conditioning, which states that behaviors that are reinforced are more likely to be repeated.
When it comes to dog behavior, positive reinforcement can be used to encourage behaviors such as sitting quietly, chewing on appropriate items, or using an indoor bathroom area. By providing rewards such as treats, praise, or playtime when the dog engages in these behaviors, owners can help their pets learn that these actions are desirable. Over time, the dog will be more likely to repeat the reinforced behaviors, leading to a reduction in unwanted actions such as barking, chewing, or inappropriate elimination.
One of the key advantages of positive reinforcement training is that it is a humane and effective method of modifying dog behavior. Unlike punishment-based techniques that can lead to fear-based responses, aggression, or anxiety, positive reinforcement training fosters trust and a strong bond between the dog and its owner. By focusing on rewarding good behaviors rather than punishing bad ones, this method creates a positive learning environment for both the dog and the owner.

4. Environmental Enrichment and Management

When considering the underlying motivation for chewing and barking, one must remember that dogs are social, independent creatures who were domesticated from a wild and working ancestor. They generally accept a more sheltered life and are more “content” at home than their ancestors, but this lifestyle does contribute to a bizarre range of behaviors. Chewing and/or barking, along with digging, chasing, stealing, and toilet training accidents, are wayward dog behaviors that frustrate owners wishing to better integrated pets into their family life. Fortunately, thoughtful owners can help their pets adjust to domestic life.
The value of play in dog training is often misunderstood as a waste of time that does nothing to address misbehavior. However, play, especially interactive play, is vital in forging a bond through one-on-one activities that strengthen the bond between dog and owner. Through most of a week’s polite leashed walks, a dog learns that good things always happen within leash reach of its owner. It learns to seek out its owner’s company. To enhance further playtime benefits, care must be taken that play does not emerge at times or in places where the owner would prefer peace and quiet.
In addition to play, a range of interactive toys and puzzles is now available to increase environmental enrichment and management. These distractions provide an opportunity to reduce most companions’ search for adventure, preventing trouble while keeping them entertained in their own right. Most toys and puzzles require some kind of physical manipulation to extract a novel, edible treat (such as biscuit or spread) that has been inserted. Though inexpensive, common, and using easily acquired materials, such interaction requires ingenuity, persistence, and skill and thereby keeps the most aloof pooch entertained for some considerable time.

4.1. Interactive Toys and Puzzles

Interactive toys and puzzles offer a delightful solution to channeling a dog’s desire to chew and bark constructively while building skills. From lampooned raccoons to puzzled cats, most smart dogs find a certain chew toy puzzle hard to resist. This challenge elevates chewing from calming to engrossing, encouraging more thoughtfulness, exploration, and merriment. Puzzle toys can outlast ropes, balls, and rubber toys, providing dogs an engaging and satisfying diversion that helps maintain their calm and patience. Involving the entire family in making homemade puzzle toys promotes bonding, camaraderie, and teamwork.
Pet stores offer an array of innovative chew toys — rubber, foam, and leather, and those with intricate designs. However, no need to purchase expensive toys; anything found around the house can become a homemade toy. It commonly involves hiding food in boxes, soda bottles, or juggling tennis balls atop a bowl. Clever dogs are filled with smiles as they gradually understand the toy and dig their noses and paws into the challenge. Not only do dogs enjoy novel chew toys but novelty is also essential — rotating toys every few days is crucial since boredom can come as quickly as smiles. The vacuum-cleaner mouse toy is a clever approach to keeping some toys always available.
Interactive toys and puzzles are commonly recommended to appease dogs’ need to chew while reducing excessive mindfulness and excitement. Rubber or foam toys with food hidden inside encourage different chewing. The toy’s surfaces may require dogs to alternately approach, shake, paw, roll, dig, or even nudge their noses into hard-to-reach voids. Games that mimic hunting prey bolster enjoyment and satisfaction. Clever designs challenge dogs to use strategy — removing a ball from a box, moving a disk to uncover downsides, or tapping to tilt a bowl on a moving plate. Puzzles offer wrinkles, drawers, doors — usually requiring manipulation several steps to uncover food — dogs need to explore, chase, and contemplate.

5. Seeking Professional Help

When self-training strategies fail, consulting a professional is often the best way to control extreme chewing or barking. These situations usually require pet owners to reach beyond the basic dog ownership level to an understanding of animal behavior, stress management, and dog communication. Behavior problems could require serious dedication of time, effort, and, in some cases, finances. Therefore, it is best to consult a professional trainer or behaviorist who has credentials and practical experience in addressing chewing or barking problems. In some cases, pet owners should be prepared to provide information, such as daily activity logs, before the professional has even met the dog. Understanding the problems a dog exhibits can also help in knowing what type of advice is useful. Some problems are benign, or at least non-threatening to the dog or household. Other issues, however, could put a dog at risk or require urgent help, such as when a family considers abandoning or euthanizing the pet.
Consulting a Certified Dog Trainer or Behaviorist: Competent dog trainers and pet trainers differ in educational background, style of training techniques, and types of training offered. Behaviors addressing skills obtained through training do not help dogs or their owners acquire an understanding of canine behavior. The first step in seeking help for chewing or barking issues is to come up with a list of candidates, and then sort through potential professionals based on training experience, methods used, and feedback received by others who have used that trainer’s services.
Finding the Right Consultant: Training and behavioral advice candidates can be found through local veterinarians, pet stores, community dog clubs, dog trainers, and animal rescue shelters. When contacting, inquiring about learning styles, involvement in educational courses, or participation in training clubs would help sort out qualified candidates. For chewing or barking problems, it is important to choose someone who uses animal-friendly methods. Trainers who chastise, dominate, or shock dogs are best avoided, while those who employ food, toys, or nothing to motivate dogs should be contacted. When discussing the candidate’s advice and approach of dealing with similar problems, it is good to remember that dogs each are individuals.

5.1. Consulting a Certified Dog Trainer or Behaviorist

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, we may find ourselves unable to modify our dog’s behavior. This could be due to time constraints or perhaps an increase in the frequency or intensity of the behavior. In either case, it may be best to consult a professional. These experts can work with you and your dog to develop a modification plan that fits your family’s needs and is consistent with science-based training. Choose a trainer or behaviorist who is accredited by a recognized organization and one who always uses positive reinforcement. In general, steer clear of trainers or behaviorists who employ harsh techniques, such as choke chains, shock collars, scruff shakes, etc. Research shows that these kinds of methods can lead to greater behavioral problems, including aggression. Additionally, be wary of anyone who appears overly enthusiastic about marketing a gimmick, such as a “quick fix” or miracle product, or offers a one-size-fits-all solution.
Certified trainers and behaviorists are diverse in their education/experience and dog training philosophies—don’t hesitate to ask questions and observe a session prior to making a commitment. Find someone who is fully on board with positive reinforcement methods, emphatic of your situation, and has a plan you feel comfortable with. A professional might first conduct an in-home evaluation or a meeting with you and your dog in a quiet location to evaluate the behavior and ensure it is not a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Next, they may work with you to develop an individualized modification plan that includes specific steps for both you and your dog. It is crucial that all humans in the household be consistent with the plan. Return visits might be scheduled to check progress, modify the plan, and/or provide additional suggestions. Be patient; behavior modification can take time, especially if your dog has been engaging in the behavior for a long time.

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