ATTENTION SEEKING BEHAVIOR IN DOGS

Attention-seeking behavior in dogs is when a dog performs actions to gain your attention, whether positive or negative, because they crave interaction with you. 

While attention seeking behavior is a normal behavior for a dog it can quickly manifest itself into many problem behaviors such as:

Barking, Whining, or Howling

Jumping, Nudging, or Pawing

Chewing and destructive behavior

Stealing Items 

Playing keep away or chase

Mouthing, Nipping or barking

Following a person around

Staring or begging

Why Dogs Seek Attention:

Survival Instinct:

Puppies rely heavily on their mothers for care, so seeking attention is a natural instinct to ensure survival. 

Bonding and Connection:

Dogs want to feel connected to their owners and seek attention as a way to strengthen their bond. 

Boredom or Lack of Stimulation:

When dogs are bored or understimulated, they may resort to attention-seeking behaviors to fill the void. 

Anxiety or Fear:

Dogs may seek attention to cope with anxiety or fear, especially if they are left alone for long periods. 

Reinforcement:

If a dog's attention-seeking behavior is rewarded, even with negative attention like scolding, they may learn to repeat it to get a reaction. 

How to Manage Attention-Seeking Behaviors:

Ignore Undesirable Behaviors:

If your dog is engaging in attention-seeking behavior you don't want to encourage, try to ignore it. This teaches them that the behavior doesn't get the desired response. 

Reward Positive Behaviors:

When your dog is behaving appropriately, reward them with praise, treats, or playtime to reinforce the good behavior. 

Provide Adequate Exercise and Stimulation:

Make sure your dog gets enough exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and frustration. 

Train Your Dog:

Teach your dog basic obedience commands and create a structured routine to help them understand expectations. 

Seek Professional Help:

If your dog's attention-seeking behaviors are excessive or disruptive, consult a veterinarian or certified dog trainer for guidance. 

By understanding the reasons behind attention-seeking behavior, you can better manage it and create a healthy and fulfilling relationship with your dog. 

For more information or to request a Behavioral Assessment and Consultation contact us below or call (805) 978 6945.  

We provide your Behavioral Assessment and Consultation free of charge.  At the consultation we will discuss in detail with you what problem behaviors are occurring, what you would like to see happen for you and your dog as a result of training and will perform a Behavioral Assessment of your dog.  This will allow us to evaluate your needs, the current behavior of the dog, what you would like to see from the training and other variables in order to develop a Behavioral Training Plan specific to your dog and situation.