Dogs are not people in fur. Barking, whining, digging, chewing, scavenging, and chasing other animals are normal canine behavior. They are problems for us, not for the dog. A great deal of modern training is an effort to reduce what a dog does naturally and increase what a household will tolerate.

Many of those tendencies were bred in on purpose. Sled breeds pull. Cattle dogs nip at heels, and may nip at children, bicycles, and cars. Terriers, from the Yorkshire Terrier to the American Pit Bull Terrier, were bred to hunt and kill vermin. They often dig, and they often have a high prey drive. A pit bull’s determination and its interest in other animals come from that history. The practical answer is an appropriate outlet: a walk, a game, a legal chew, a job. Suppression alone does not remove the instinct.

Common issues include barking, humping, digging, begging, leash pulling, poor greetings, destructive chewing, puppy nipping and rough play, submissive or excitement urination, urine marking, fearfulness, separation anxiety, resource guarding, and prey drive.

Before you treat the symptom, check the setup. Is the dog exercised? Is it alone for long stretches? Does it have toys that actually occupy it, or only your belongings within reach? Is it getting attention and play? Are you reinforcing the behavior you dislike — reassuring a fearful dog with “it’s okay,” or scolding a dog that is only trying to get a reaction? Does it have a dog-proof place with chews of its own?

We do not recommend punishment. It rarely fixes the cause, and it can worsen anything driven by fear or anxiety. It can also make a confident dog anxious. Never discipline after the fact. A dog that runs, hides, or “looks guilty” is reading your voice and your posture. It does not know which act you are angry about. Late punishment does not stop the behavior, and it often adds a new one. See Obedience Training and Unacceptable Behavior.