5 Dog Behaviors That Should Not Be Allowed By Owners

Dogs are wonderful companions. Many times dogs develop undesirable behaviors that are either inadvertently taught by their owners or simply ignored. Here are five dog behaviors that are unacceptable and should not be allowed by dog owners.

Growling

Some dogs growl at their owners in an attempt to gain supremacy. This dominant behavior is totally unacceptable and should not be allowed by any dog. Incredibly, this is sometimes seen as a cute and endearing behavior by small dog owners. This behavior should not be ignored and should be dealt with immediately. If necessary, an animal behaviorist should be contacted for assistance.

Jumping

Many dogs like to greet their owners and guests by jumping up on them. This behavior should be eliminated. Depending on the size of the dog, the person may end up on the floor and possibly sustain an injury. In addition, some dogs have sharp nails that may cause serious nicks and scratches to those persons with thin or delicate skin.

Riding with Their Heads Out of the Window

Many dogs like to stick their heads out the window while riding in the car. This dog behavior should not be allowed. At high speeds, dogs could be hit by rocks and other debris that might be flying through the air. In particular, this dog behavior leaves the eyes most vulnerable to injury. Additionally, when driving on rough terrain or when an accident occurs, dogs may be thrown from the car onto the road.

Drinking Rainwater

Some dogs enjoy splashing through puddles after a rainstorm. Dogs should not be permitted to drink the water from these puddles. This rainwater may contain pollutants from organic material runoff and pesticides. Dogs may develop upset stomachs, diarrhea or other ailments. If the behavior continues throughout the dog's lifetime, other more serious disorders may occur. In addition dogs should be discouraged from eating plant life such as grass, leaves and sticks, for the same reason.

Begging at the Table

Many dogs love food and enjoy begging at the dinner table while their owners are eating. Some dogs even may try to climb onto a chair in an attempt to get closer to the food. While some dog owners may think this behavior is charming, it is annoying, especially when entertaining guests. The result of this behavior is that the dog is training the owner to respond to the dog's command and not vise versa as it should be.

Since all dogs are individuals, some dogs may acquire other behaviors that also should be curtailed including pulling on the leash during walks, tugging on the owner's clothing, excessive barking and other behaviors.

When these undesirable dog behaviors are eliminated, the quality of life will improve for the dog and the owner as well.