Dogs Decoded: The Relationship Edition

My dog always barks at men when they walk past me during walks. How can I fix this?

The reason your dog is barking is probably because he/she is really worked up, whether it means they are excited or scared. This can easily be fixed by training your dog how to behave better on walks. First, you need to figure out if your dog's barking stems from fear or anxiety. If it seems like your dog is barking because he is extremely upset, contact a certified professional trainer for help. If your dog's barking seems more playful, excited or attention-seeking, find the right gear and the proper commands to use on a walk. Teaching your dog how to properly walk on a leash, how to heel and how to sit is essential and will help reduce your dog's barking behavior. As far as gear goes, use a head halter or a front clip harness so that you have more control on walks. Another tip is teaching your dog how to "speak" and also how to "quiet." It is all about training and practicing those lessons. (Vetstreet) 

Why does my male dog hump other male dogs' heads?

Humping is a completely normal behavior among dogs. While it can be embarrassing, it's what dogs do and it doesn't necessarily mean it's a sexual behavior. A common explanation is that one dog mounts another to assert dominance. When a dog attempts to mount the head of another dog, some canine behaviorists suggest this behavior as being one of the most extreme displays of dominance. After all, the head is the highest part of the dog. However, it may just be because your dog is trying to exert dominance and the head just so happens to be more accessible than the back. Either way, it is completely normal, but if it becomes aggressive, separate the dogs. (petMD) 

I am going off to college soon and leaving my dog behind at home with my parents. They haven't spent much time with her, so I am concerned. How do I ease the transition?

There is no doubt that your dog will miss you terribly, but she will adjust much better than you think she will. Before you leave, try to change her routine to include your parents more and you less. Encourage your parents to spend more time with your dog. Whatever activities you used to do with your dog, try and encourage your mom or dad to do in your place. Have them take her on a short walk every day. If your dog is used to sleeping in your room at night, try having them sleep with your parents. It may take a little time to get used to, but she will be fine! (Vetstreet) 

When I am in my home and people are over, my dog will growl and bark at people when they get closer to me. Help!

The best way to deal with a dog that is only aggressive when people approach him is to help him feel respected. When your dog feels respected by your guests, there is a less likely chance that he will growl at them. Most people think this means paying attention to the dog by bending over to touch and pet the dog. However, in order to show respect to the dog, guests should be advised to not pay any attention to the dog whatsoever — no touch, no talk, no eye contact. This will allow the dog enough time to sniff around and get to know his guests. (Cesar's Way) 

My wife and I are on different pages when it comes to where our puppy should sleep. She doesn't mind our dog sleeping in bed with us, but I would prefer if he slept in a different room. I want to be close to our dog, but I want to maintain personal space. What should we do? 

While it is important to share your home with your new dog, giving him full access to your house may tell him that he is the alpha of the family. A good compromise between the two would be to have your puppy sleep in a crate in your bedroom. He'll feel comfortable and close enough to you, while you and your wife will be able to have the bed to yourselves. This will also create a good foundation and will let the dog know who is in charge. (Vetstreet)  

How come my dog always backs away from people when they try to pet him? My dog has never been abused or mistreated.

Even pets who are not abused or mistreated sometimes cower when they are approached by people. This is just a display of submissive behavior. If your dog is the submissive type, he will lower his body or cower on the ground when people or other pets come close. His head, however, will most likely be directed towards the person who is greeting him, showing that he is acknowledging their meeting. It is important to know the difference between a submissive dog and a fearful dog. A fearful dog will hunch over with a lowered head, flattened ears and tucked tail. This shows that he is anxious and scared. If you believe that he is fearful and not submissive, find a professional canine trainer to assess the situation. (ASPCA)

My dog loves to lick my husband's face, but doesn't lick mine. I spend more time with the dog than he does and I'm pretty sure he is also much closer to me than my husband. Does that mean he loves him more than he loves me?

Licking is another kind of behavior that can mean so many different things. First of all, it is a natural instinct. Dogs learn how to lick from their mothers, who lick each of the pups in her litter during the course of grooming and social interactions. It can also be used as a sensory tool. In this situation, licking is a canine attention-seeking behavior that helps show that they are there. Lastly, licking can be a submissive gesture to invite interaction. This is most likely why your dog "kisses" your husband's face, but not yours. (Today)

What's a great bonding activity for Valentine's Day?

As long as you and your dog are involved, any activity will strengthen the bond between the two of you. Try these three different activities out. First of all, try playing with your dog! The more games you play with your pet, the more fun they will have with you. They will associate these positive feelings with you, thus strengthening your relationship. This can also include walks. Secondly, feed your dog his or her meals! Being reliant upon you for something that they love is also very powerful in positive reinforcement training. Last, but not least, snuggle up! If your dog doesn't like to cuddle, petting or giving him or her a doggie massage can bring you guys closer. (Vetstreet) 

What's a great Valentine's Day dog-toy gift that I can play with alongside my dog?

If your dog loves to play fetch, then a ball launcher is your best bet! You don't have to be a professional baseball player to be able to throw the ball far enough to give your dog a little bit of exercise. Chuck It Toys makes an inexpensive and simply designed ball launcher that will have your dog running for hours. If you're looking for something a little bit more special, a product called the HyperDog 4-ball Launcher is a great idea. It's like a slingshot with reloadable tennis balls. It even comes with a launcher pouch to keep your hands drool-free when you have to reload the balls. Of course, you don't have to get fancy and buy a contraption in order to have fun with your pooch — a plain old tennis ball will do the trick. 

I just brought a new puppy into my home and I fear that I am coddling him. I am too scared to leave him alone and constantly smother him with attention. Is it important to give my puppy alone time?