Dog Problems
FAQ Hub – With a Grumble from Grumpy Old Max
Welcome to the ultimate guide to your doggy dilemmas—straight from the grumpiest, wisest mutt on the block, Grumpy Old Max.
If you're tired, confused, or just want your couch back, you've come to the right place.
Let’s dig in (but not in the backyard, thanks).
🗣 Barking
“Why does my dog bark so much?”
According to Grumpy Old Max: “Sometimes we bark ‘cause we’re bored. Sometimes we bark ‘cause you left us with that weird vacuum cleaner. Deal with it—or read below.”
Answer & Behaviour Explanation:
Barking is a natural dog behaviour. But excessive barking can be due to boredom, fear, territorial instincts, or lack of training.
Tips & Solutions:
- Increase physical and mental stimulation
- Remove visual triggers (like the postman)
- Teach the “quiet” command
- Use positive reinforcement
When to Seek Help:
If barking is obsessive or triggered by separation, consult a trainer or vet.
Related Questions:
- Can I train my dog not to bark at the doorbell?
- Why does my dog bark when left alone?
Related Blog Posts:
- 7 Ways to Curb Constant Barking
- What Your Dog’s Bark is Really Saying
🦷 Chewing
“Why is my dog chewing everything?”
Max says: “Puppies teethe. Adults get bored. Either way—stop blaming us for your missing TV remote.”
Answer & Behaviour Explanation:
Dogs explore the world with their mouths. Chewing can relieve stress, boredom, or teething pain.
Tips & Solutions:
- Provide safe chew toys
- Use deterrent sprays
- Crate train when unsupervised
- Increase play and interaction time
When to Seek Help:
If chewing is destructive or due to anxiety, consult a behaviourist.
Related Questions:
- When does puppy teething stop?
- Can chewing be caused by anxiety?
Related Blog Posts:
- The Best Chew Toys to Save Your Shoes
- How to Stop Destructive Chewing
🐾 Jumping
“Why does my dog jump on everyone?”
Max: “We’re saying hi. You’re tall. We’re short. Physics, people.”
Answer & Behaviour Explanation:
Jumping is a greeting behaviour, often reinforced when owners reward it with attention.
Tips & Solutions:
- Ignore jumping and reward calm greetings
- Train your dog to “sit” when greeting
- Ask visitors to help reinforce this behaviour
When to Seek Help:
If jumping becomes aggressive or unmanageable.
Related Questions:
- Why does my dog jump only on strangers?
- Is jumping a sign of dominance?
Related Blog Posts:
- How to Teach Polite Greetings
- From Jumping Bean to Good Boy: A Success Story
💔 Separation Anxiety
“Why does my dog freak out when I leave?”
Grumpy Max: “We just love you too much. It's annoying, we know.”
Answer & Behaviour Explanation:
Dogs are social animals. Some develop anxiety when left alone, leading to whining, destruction, or house-soiling.
Tips & Solutions:
- Gradual desensitisation to being alone
- Leave enrichment toys or puzzles
- Avoid dramatic exits and returns
- Try anxiety wraps or calming music
When to Seek Help:
Persistent or severe anxiety may need professional behavioural therapy or vet-prescribed medication.
Related Questions:
- How long is it OK to leave my dog alone?
- Can dogs grow out of separation anxiety?
Related Blog Posts:
- Coping With a Clingy Canine
- Crate Training & Comfort: A Safe Haven for Your Dog
🚽 Potty Training
“Why is my dog still having accidents inside?”
Max: “You try holding it in for 8 hours without thumbs.”
Answer & Behaviour Explanation:
Potty issues may stem from incomplete training, inconsistent routines, anxiety, or health issues.
Tips & Solutions:
- Stick to a consistent feeding and potty schedule
- Reward outdoor potty breaks
- Supervise indoors or use crate training
- Clean accidents thoroughly to remove scent markers
When to Seek Help:
If accidents persist past 6 months of age or appear suddenly in house-trained dogs.
Related Questions:
- How long does it take to house-train a puppy?
- Should I punish my dog for indoor accidents?
Related Blog Posts:
- House-Training 101: Patience, Praise & Poo
- 5 Mistakes You’re Making in Toilet Training
😠 Aggression
“Why is my dog acting aggressively?”
Max: “Maybe someone took our favourite toy. Or stood too close. Back up, Karen.”
Answer & Behaviour Explanation:
Aggression can stem from fear, territorialism, pain, poor socialisation, or genetics.
Tips & Solutions:
- Identify triggers and avoid them
- Never punish aggressive behavior—it can worsen it
- Use positive reinforcement to reward calm behaviour
- Ensure early socialisation with people and dogs
When to Seek Help:
Any sign of growling, lunging, biting, or guarding should prompt immediate professional intervention.
Related Questions:
- Are some breeds more aggressive?
- Is my dog being dominant or scared?
Related Blog Posts:
- Understanding Dog Body Language
- Aggression Triggers: What to Watch For
🕳 Digging
“Why is my dog digging holes everywhere?”
Grumpy Max: “Some of us are part-time archaeologists. Don’t judge.”
Answer & Behaviour Explanation:
Digging can be driven by instinct, boredom, prey-chasing, or seeking comfort (cool spots).
Tips & Solutions:
- Provide a sandbox or dig-friendly zone
- Offer more exercise and stimulation
- Block access to key digging areas
- Avoid leaving your dog unsupervised in the yard
When to Seek Help:
If digging is obsessive or destructive despite intervention.
Related Questions:
- Can I train my dog to stop digging?
- Do certain breeds dig more?
Related Blog Posts:
- How to Stop Backyard Destruction
- The Great Dig Debate: Fun vs Frustration
🐶 Need More Help?
If your dog’s quirks are driving you barking mad, don’t worry—you’re not alone.
Grumpy Old Max and the Wagwise team are here to support you with expert tips, real-life stories, and a little grumpy wisdom.
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Remember: Every dog can learn new tricks—especially when the humans do too.
– Grumpy Old Max 🐾
