Helping a dog who is afraid of the car
Why some dogs fear car rides and how to help: step by step desensitization, travel sickness tips, safe restraint and when to talk to your vet.
12 guides
Dog behavior, explained
Most problem behavior makes sense from the dog's side. Understand the why, and the fix gets much easier.
Dog not coming when called? Here's how to fix it
Why dogs ignore recall and a step by step plan to fix it: a fresh cue, long line practice, rewards that beat distractions and the mistakes that poison recall.
How to stop your dog pulling on the leash
Why dogs pull on the leash and how to teach loose-leash walking with rewards: the right gear, practice at home, stop and go, direction changes and setbacks.
Every behavior has a reason
Dogs don’t misbehave to annoy us. They pull because pulling gets them to the smells faster. They jump because faces are up there and jumping got a reaction last time. They bark because something felt worth barking at. Once you know what a behavior gets your dog, you can teach a better way to get it.
A simple plan for any problem
- Rule out pain. Sudden changes deserve a vet check.
- Manage it. Stop the behavior from being practiced while you teach: a leash indoors, a baby gate, food off the counter.
- Teach the alternative. Sit instead of jump. Look at you instead of lunge. Chew the toy instead of the sofa.
- Reward it, a lot. Especially at first.
- Meet the need. Bored dogs chew, under exercised dogs bounce off walls, lonely dogs bark. More sniffing, play and company often fixes half the problem.
The common problems
- Pulling on the leash
- Jumping on people
- Barking at the door and barking at night
- Not coming when called
- Chewing furniture
- Mouthing and biting hands
- Fear of the car and fear of strangers
Read your dog
Body language tells you how your dog feels before behavior gets loud. Lip licking, yawning, turning away and a tucked tail are early signs of worry. Learn them in reading dog body language.
Quick guides
Train it with a plan
Frequently asked questions
Why does my dog suddenly behave badly?
Sudden changes can come from pain, illness, poor sleep, fear or a change in routine. If behavior changes quickly, see your vet first to rule out a medical cause.
Should I punish my dog for bad behavior?
No. Punishment can make fear and aggression worse and doesn't teach your dog what to do instead. Prevent the behavior, and reward the alternative you want.
Can old dogs change their behavior?
Yes. Adult and senior dogs learn throughout life. Habits that have been practiced for years take longer to change, so be patient and consistent.
Sources and further reading
- (2021). Position Statement on Humane Dog Training. American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB).
- Herron, M. E., Shofer, F. S., and Reisner, I. R. (2009). Survey of the use and outcome of confrontational and non-confrontational training methods in client-owned dogs showing undesired behaviors. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 117(1–2), 47–54.