Dogs may not speak our language, but they are constantly communicating. Every bark, tail wag, growl, or quiet withdrawal carries meaning. When we understand why dogs behave the way they do, we stop labelling them as “angry” or “stubborn” and start responding with empathy.
Why Do Dogs Get Angry or Aggressive?
Most dogs are not aggressive by nature. What looks like anger is usually fear, pain, or confusion.
Common triggers include:
- Feeling threatened or cornered
- Past trauma or abuse
- Physical pain or illness
- Protecting territory, food, or puppies
Growling is often a warning, not an attack. Punishing a growl removes the warning and can make bites more likely.
Why Do Dogs Bark So Much?
Barking is a dog’s primary form of communication.
Dogs bark to:
- Alert or warn of something unfamiliar
- Seek attention or express excitement
- Release frustration or anxiety
- Respond to boredom or loneliness
Different barks carry different messages — sharp barks signal alert, repetitive barking suggests boredom, and high-pitched barking often shows excitement.
Why Do Dogs Sometimes Ignore You?
Ignoring is not disobedience. Dogs may ignore when:
- They are overstimulated or stressed
- They don’t understand the command
- The reward is not motivating enough
- They are tired or mentally overloaded
Silence and withdrawal are often stress signals, not attitude.
Why Do Dogs Follow Humans Everywhere?
Dogs are pack animals. Following you means:
- You are their safe person
- They seek protection or reassurance
- They are curious or bored
- They have developed a strong emotional bond
For some dogs, excessive following can indicate separation anxiety
Why Do Dogs Avoid Eye Contact or Hide?
Avoiding eye contact is often a sign of:
- Submission
- Stress or fear
- Overstimulation
It is a polite canine signal that says, “I mean no harm.”
How Humans Can Respond Better
✔ Observe body language, not just actions
✔ Respond calmly, not emotionally
✔ Never punish fear-based behaviour
✔ Build trust through consistency and patience
Final Thought
Dogs don’t misbehave — they communicate.
When we learn to listen, dogs become calmer, safer, and deeply connected companions.
Commitment, Firmness, but kindness.
About Author :
Do you have any problems with your pet? Then why not send your problem to DAVID THE DOGMAN. David is a Canine Behaviorist who works and lives in Marbella, Spain. Tel/Fax (00345) 2883388. His web site is located at: http://www.thedogman.net.
David has his own radio and TV shows, and writes for many newspapers and magazines. David has been working with dogs for many years and started his career in Israel, working on the Border Police.
He has been involved in all forms of training, including air sea rescue, air scent work, and has trained dogs for finding drugs. David has devoted the past 10 years to studying behaviour and the very passive approach. He does not use choke chains, check chains, or any form of aggression.
David The Dogman is available for private consultations in your home, for further details telephone; Tel: (+95) 2883388