Dealing with Common Summer Challenges: Training Tips for
Barking, Chewing, and Digging
Summer brings with it a host of fun activities and adventures for dogs, but it can also
present some unique challenges. Increased outdoor time and changes in routine can
lead to behavioral issues like excessive barking, chewing, and digging. Fortunately, with
the right training techniques, you can address these issues and help your dog enjoy a
well-behaved summer.
1. Excessive Barking
Why It Happens: Summer can be a noisy time with outdoor parties, fireworks, and
other activities that may excite or distress your dog. Increased exposure to new sounds
and sights can lead to more barking.
Quick Training Tips:
● Identify Triggers: Pay attention to what causes your dog to bark and address
the specific triggers. If it’s the sound of fireworks, try to create a calming
environment for your dog during such events.
● Teach the “Quiet” Command: Start by letting your dog bark a few times, then
say “quiet” in a calm but firm voice. When they stop barking, reward them with a
treat. Consistent practice will help them learn to stop barking on command.
● Increase Exercise: Sometimes, excessive barking can stem from pent-up
energy. Make sure your dog gets plenty of physical and mental stimulation
through walks, playtime, and interactive toys.
2. Destructive Chewing
Why It Happens: Chewing can be a way for dogs to alleviate boredom or anxiety. With
more time spent outside and changes in routine, your dog might turn to chewing as a
way to entertain themselves or relieve stress.
Quick Training Tips:
● Provide Appropriate Chew Toys: Offer a variety of durable chew toys to keep
your dog entertained. Ensure these toys are engaging and appropriate for their
size and chewing strength.
● Use Deterring Sprays: Apply dog-safe deterrent sprays to furniture and other
items you want to protect from chewing. These sprays have a bitter taste that
discourages chewing.
● Redirect Attention: When you catch your dog chewing on something they
shouldn’t, redirect their attention to an appropriate chew toy and praise them
when they switch.
3. Digging
Why It Happens: Digging is a natural behavior for dogs and can be exacerbated by
warmer weather. They might dig to cool down, find prey, or simply because they’re
bored.
Quick Training Tips:
● Create a Digging Area: Designate a specific area in your yard where digging is
allowed. Encourage your dog to dig there by burying toys or treats.
● Exercise and Enrichment: Ensure your dog gets enough physical exercise and
mental stimulation to reduce boredom. Engage them in interactive games and
provide puzzle toys.
● Supervise and Redirect: When you catch your dog digging in unwanted areas,
calmly redirect them to their designated digging spot and reward them for digging
there.
Consistency is Key
Addressing these summer behavioral challenges requires patience and consistency.
Implementing these training techniques regularly will help your dog adjust to summer’s
changes while maintaining good behavior. If you find persistent issues or if the
behaviors are particularly challenging, consider consulting a professional dog trainer for
additional guidance.
By staying proactive and engaged in your dog’s training, you can ensure a harmonious
and enjoyable summer for both you and your furry friend.
Conclusion
At K-9 Culture, we're committed to transforming every dog's potential into reality. As
Dallas’ premier balanced obedience dog trainers, our approach seamlessly integrates
engagement and reward-based training with the essential balance of correction when
needed. We believe that setting your dog up for success before issuing commands is
crucial for achieving the best results. This ensures that your dog understands exactly
what is expected, leading to more effective training and a happier, well-behaved pet.
Our expansive 53,000 square-foot facility is designed not only to be the largest dog
training space in Texas but also to offer a thoughtfully crafted environment that fosters
focus, engagement, and enjoyment. Here, your dog will experience a unique training
journey that enhances their natural desire to learn and please, helping them become a
well-mannered and integral part of your community.
At K-9 Culture, we are dedicated to helping dogs live their most fulfilling lives. The more
dependable your dog becomes, the bigger and more rewarding their life will be. We
invite you to experience our exceptional training environment and see for yourself why
we stand out as the premier choice for balanced obedience training in the Dallas-Fort
Worth Metroplex. Your dog’s journey to becoming a happier, more obedient member of
your family starts here.
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