Why Does My Dog Do That? Understanding Common Canine Behaviours

One of the most common phrases dog owners type into Google starts with a simple question: “Why does my dog…?” Bark, pull on the leash, chew everything in sight, eat grass, follow you everywhere, or suddenly stop listening. While these behaviours can feel frustrating, confusing, or even overwhelming, the truth is that every behaviour has a reason behind it. Dogs aren’t trying to be “bad”, they’re communicating.

Dogs experience the world very differently than we do. They don’t have language, so they rely on behaviour to express emotions, needs, stress, excitement, or uncertainty. When a dog pulls on leash, it’s often because they’re overstimulated, under-trained, or unclear about expectations. When a dog chews furniture, it can be boredom, anxiety, teething, or simply a lack of appropriate outlets. Barking, digging, pacing, and even clingy behaviour are all forms of feedback, not defiance.

Understanding why your dog is doing something is the first step toward changing it. Many unwanted behaviours stem from a lack of structure, inconsistent communication, or unmet physical and mental needs. Dogs thrive on clarity. When expectations are clear, boundaries are fair, and leadership is consistent, most behavioural issues naturally begin to fade.

Training isn’t about control, it’s about teaching. It’s about showing your dog how to succeed in a human world while still honouring who they are as a dog. When we shift our mindset from “How do I stop this behaviour?” to “What is my dog trying to tell me?” everything changes. That’s where real progress begins.

If you’ve ever found yourself Googling “Why does my dog do this?” you’re not alone, and you’re not failing. You’re learning. With the right guidance, tools, and understanding, every dog has the potential to become a calm, confident, and well-balanced companion.

- Hope Verra