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Housebreaking and behavior issues are often the most frustrating things a dog owner has to endure. Unlike obedience and trick training, which involves encouraging a dog to engage in a new activity, housebreaking and behavior training involves getting a dog to stop doing something that comes naturally. With patience and attention, however, you should be able to overcome these common issues.

Housebreaking
A dog or puppy is either housebroken or not. If your dog is sneaking off to another room and having an accident, you will have to take some of his freedom away until you can solve the problem. The longer you allow this type of behavior to exist, the harder it will be to modify.

Unless you can catch him, it really does not do any good to drag him off to the site of his mishap and try and punish him. Keep him in sight. If he is bold enough to try something in front of you, say "No," get his attention and take him outdoors quickly so he can finish eliminating in the appropriate area. Remember, it is your house. He has to earn his freedom through good behavior and this is your responsibility.

Start by establishing an elimination spot outdoors. In the morning, clip his leash to his collar and take the dog outdoors to his spot for elimination. State commands like "go potty" or "hurry up." After he does his duty, bring the dog inside for food and water. About 15 to 20 minutes after the meal, take the dog outside again for elimination. Take your dog to his "spot" at each elimination time. Maintain a regular feeding, drinking, and elimination schedule.

One of the most common errors in housebreaking is rushing too quickly ahead of your dog. Too much freedom too quickly can cause some confusion. If your dog experiences an accident or two, you will have to back up and slow down.

Marking should not be confused with housebreaking problems because marking is deliberate. This behavior will arise in dogs who may be trying to vie for the role of the leader in the household; marking is a way of claiming territory. It is advised that if you notice this behavior indoors or out, you strengthen all obedience commands immediately. This will remove all doubts as to who is in charge around the house.

Providing your dog or puppy with a crate that is way too large may allow him to relieve himself in one end and sleep in the other. Placing food or water in his crate will allow him to fill up his bladder and bowel and he will have no choice but to relieve himself in his crate. Make sure you take your dog or puppy outdoors to eliminate on a regular schedule and especially prior to being left for prolonged periods of time.

If you have tried all the above and are still experiencing what you believe to be "Territorial Marking," consult your veterinarian. Your dog/puppy may have a bladder infection and it's always best to be safe, not sorry. If your dog/puppy is not spayed or neutered you may want to talk to your veterinarian about this procedure. It usually has a very positive effect on this type of behavior problem.

Even well trained dogs sometimes have accidents. Clean the accident area with a pet odor neutralizer so your dog won't be tempted to repeat his mistake. Here are some tips to help prevent accidents:

• Do not make sudden changes in his diet.
• Avoid giving your dog late night snacks.
• Make sure to spend enough time outdoors.

Behavior Issues
The most common negative behaviors dogs exhibit other than housebreaking issues are biting, chewing, digging, excessive barking and fear of thunder or other loud noises. The key to correcting all three of these behaviors lies in first determining the cause, then offering a solution or an alternative to the negative behavior.

Biting & Chewing
Dogs need to chew to relieve stress and excess energy. In fact, puppy teething is a natural part of development. If your dog chews on something that is off-limits, say "no" or "eh" in a low voice. Then give your dog a safe chew toy. Praise him for good behavior. Remember to give your dog safe chew toys instead of old household items like old shoes, because that could encourage him to also chew on new shoes. You will also want to avoid rough play and games like "tug of war" as this will encourage aggressive behavior.

Excessive Barking
Barking is the dog's method of communication, but sometimes they bark too much. Many times you can control excessive barking by understanding the potential causes. If your dog barks when you are away from home, try not to make a "scene" when you leave. Leave a radio on for your dog to be comforted by human voices. Dogs might also bark because they need more exercise, have been confined too long or need to relieve themselves. Dogs might also bark because of loud noises outdoors or if they hear other dogs outside. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise and playtime.

To train your dog and control his barking, state the command "quiet" in a low voice. Praise him when he obeys. If he continues, clip a leash to his collar and say "quiet." When the dog looks at you, praise him, tell him to sit and help him into a sitting position. Offer one treat or kibble of his food and praise to reinforce good behavior.

Fear of Loud Noises
To be afraid of thunder or loud noises is not uncommon among pets. What is unusual is how you might consider helping your dog through these difficult times.

Petting your whining dog in an attempt to comfort may in fact be the wrong thing to do. In essence, you are reinforcing the whining behavior during the storm.

Instead, try distracting the dog by inviting him to do something else and praising that activity. And importantly, make sure your dog is in a safe place in the home away from windows and other glass...just to make sure his fear will not lead to injury.

For the really terrified pet, consult your veterinarian for medications that can be used during a thunderstorm.

Digging Dogs
Dogs dig instinctively but there may also be other reasons. Hot temperatures outdoors may cause a dog to dig a hole in which to cool. Provide plenty of water and a cool place for him. Also, lack of exercise or boredom might cause him to dig so be sure to provide plenty of playtime and exercise. Your dog could be burying his "treasure" or chasing a scent. To train your dog to stop digging, state the command "no" when you catch him. Then distract him with play or exercise.

This may be your dog's way to release pent-up energy, so try to make sure your dog or puppy is receiving plenty of exercise. Do not forget to interact with him. He is a pack animal and he needs you to be social with him.