Understanding Why Unwanted Behaviours Happen
- Tori Lynn Crowther
- Sep 2, 2025
- 4 min read
Understanding Why Unwanted Behaviours Happen
Unwanted behaviours usually happen because dogs are getting something they want—food, attention, social interaction, or excitement.
Examples:
Counter surfing – the dog finds food and gets a tasty reward.
Jumping on people – the dog gets attention, even if it’s negative.
Running up to other dogs – the dog gets social play or interaction.
Every time a dog gets what they want, the behaviour is reinforced. Over time, it becomes stronger and more difficult to stop.
Prevention: The First Line of Defence
Preventing a behaviour is always easier than correcting it after it happens.
On Walks
Keep dogs on a short, controlled lead to maintain proximity and control.
Maintain a safe distance from other dogs until your dog is calm and focused.
Reward calm behaviour early before the dog sees or reaches something exciting.
Set up the environment to reduce triggers – for example, avoid routes where a dog habitually lunges or gets excited.
At Home or Clients’ Homes
Remove temptation: put food away, close bins, or secure doors to kitchens.
Supervise dogs during free access times.
Introduce rules gradually, ensuring consistency across all walkers and owners.
Teaching Basic Cues
“Leave it” – helps prevent grabbing or eating things they shouldn’t.
“Wait” – useful at doors, gates, or crossings.
“Look at me” – brings attention back to the handler before a behaviour escalates.
Daily Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Dogs with unmet physical or mental needs often develop problem behaviours.
Use enrichment games, sniffing walks, or puzzle toys to occupy the dog’s mind.
Managing Behaviours Safely On the Spot
If an unwanted behaviour occurs, the goal is calm interruption and redirection, not punishment.
Steps to Follow During a Walk:
Stay calm – dogs sense tension and may react to it.
Interrupt safely – use a cue like “leave it” or gently guide the dog’s attention elsewhere.
Remove access to the reward – for example, step between the dog and another dog, or lead them away from a tempting object.
Reward alternative behaviour – praise, treats, or a calm pet when the dog redirects or sits calmly.
Be consistent – always respond the same way to reinforce learning.
Recognising Early Warning Signs
Preventing escalation starts with observation. Watch for:
Stiff body posture or leaning forward
Intense staring or focus on the trigger
Whining, barking, or other vocal signals
Pawing or jumping attempts
React before full behaviour occurs. Early intervention is easier than dealing with a high-arousal situation.
Redirecting and Teaching Alternative Behaviours
Instead of just stopping unwanted behaviours, teach dogs what to do instead:
Counter surfing: redirect to a mat or a sit, reward calm attention, remove access to counters.
Jumping on people: ask for a sit or four paws on the floor, reward calm greeting.
Running to other dogs: teach focus cues like “look at me” or “heel,” reward calm approach, and only allow controlled interaction.
Use high-value rewards for the alternative behaviour to reinforce it faster.
Consistency and Communication
All walkers and owners should use the same cues, rules, and responses.
Mixed messages confuse dogs and reinforce unwanted behaviours.
Keep communication clear: dog walkers should coordinate with the owner on specific behaviours and allowed interactions.
Patience and Realistic Expectations
Behaviour change doesn’t happen overnight.
Repetition and consistency are key.
Focus on small wins: a calmer walk, a single sit before crossing the road, or ignoring a tempting object.
Celebrate progress rather than perfection.
Extra On-the-Walk Tips
Keep high-value treats handy for redirection.
Use short, structured walks for dogs that are easily overstimulated.
Give dogs time to sniff and explore safely, reducing boredom-driven behaviours.
Pause and ask for attention cues before potential triggers.
Key Takeaways for Dog Walkers
Dogs learn from everything you do – every interaction is an opportunity.
Prevention is easier than correction – remove triggers and manage the environment.
Calm, consistent redirection works better than punishment.
Reward behaviours you want, not just stop the behaviours you don’t want.
Patience and repetition create lasting results.
About Tori Lynn C. & The Dog House
Welcome to The Dog House — my cosy corner of the TLC Canine Crusaders Business Hub. I’m Tori Lynn C., the founder of TLC Dog Walking Limited, mentor to professional dog walkers, and lifelong advocate for dogs and the people who care for them. With over 17 years of hands-on experience in the industry, my mission is to guide you through the realities of running a successful, sustainable dog walking business — from client care and safety to wellbeing, confidence, and professional growth.
The Dog House is where I share the honest, behind-the-scenes conversations we all need: the tricky moments, the funny bits, the business lessons, and the mindset work that keeps us thriving rather than merely surviving. Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, you’ll always find support, guidance, and a friendly nudge forward here.
You’re never alone in this journey — you’re part of a community of canine crusaders.
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The information provided on this website is for general information and educational purposes only. It is intended to support pet care professionals in understanding common legal considerations when operating a dog walking or pet care business in the UK.
This content does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for advice from a qualified solicitor or legal professional. Laws, regulations and local authority requirements may change over time and can vary depending on location and individual circumstances.
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If you are unsure about any legal obligations, contractual terms or liabilities, it is strongly recommended that you consult a solicitor experienced in small business or consumer law.
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