Questions tagged [instinctual]

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Why do some dogs bark at their toys?

Category: Communication

Dogs barking at their toys is a behavior that can stem from a variety of reasons, ranging from instinctual drives to learned behaviors. Understanding why this happens requires a look into canine psychology, communication, and play behavior. Below is a detailed explanation of this phenomenon, along w...

Why do some dogs bark at their own shadow?

Category: Communication

Dogs barking at their own shadow can be a puzzling and sometimes amusing behavior for pet owners. However, this behavior often stems from a combination of instinctual, psychological, and environmental factors. Understanding why this happens requires a deeper look into canine behavior, sensory percep...

Why do some dogs bark at their own food?

Category: Communication

Dogs barking at their own food can be a puzzling behavior for many pet owners. This behavior can stem from a variety of reasons, ranging from instinctual drives to learned behaviors, and understanding the underlying cause is key to addressing it effectively. 1. Instinctual and Evolutionary Factors ...

How can I teach my dog to be calm around my pet bird?

Category: Other Pets

Teaching your dog to be calm around your pet bird requires patience, consistency, and a clear understanding of dog behavior. Dogs are naturally curious and may view birds as prey due to their instinctual drives. However, with proper training and management, you can help your dog coexist peacefully w...

What are the reasons dogs dig when they're stressed?

Category: Behavioral Issues

Dogs dig when they are stressed for a variety of reasons, and understanding these behaviors requires a combination of knowledge about canine psychology, biology, and environmental factors. Digging is a natural behavior for dogs, rooted in their ancestry and instincts, but when it becomes excessive o...

Why does my dog bark at its own toys?

Category: Behavioral Issues

Dogs barking at their own toys is a behavior that can stem from a variety of reasons, ranging from instinctual drives to emotional responses. Understanding why your dog does this requires a look into their natural behaviors, emotional states, and environmental triggers. Below is a detailed explanati...

Why does my dog dig in the couch cushions?

Category: Behavioral Issues

Dogs digging in couch cushions is a common behavior that can be attributed to several reasons, ranging from instinctual drives to environmental factors. Understanding why your dog engages in this behavior is key to addressing it effectively. Below is a detailed explanation of the possible causes, pr...

What are the reasons dogs dig when they're trying to escape?

Category: Behavioral Issues

Dogs digging to escape is a behavior that can stem from various underlying causes, ranging from instinctual drives to environmental factors. Understanding why dogs engage in this behavior is crucial for addressing it effectively and ensuring the safety and well-being of the dog. Below is a comprehen...

What are the underlying causes of resource guarding aggression?

Category: Behavioral Issues

Resource guarding aggression in dogs is a behavior where a dog becomes defensive or aggressive when they perceive a threat to something they value, such as food, toys, or even a favorite resting spot. This behavior can range from mild growling to severe biting and is rooted in a combination of insti...

Why does my dog dig under the fence?

Category: Behavioral Issues

Dogs dig under fences for a variety of reasons, and understanding the underlying cause is essential to addressing the behavior effectively. Digging is a natural instinct for dogs, rooted in their ancestry and survival behaviors. Below, I will explain the reasons behind this behavior, provide practic...