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5 Dog Behavior Red Flags You Shouldn’t Ignore

Your dog doesn’t have to bite the mailman to tell you something’s wrong. Many behavior issues start small—but left unchecked, they can grow into real problems. At Integrity Canine in Morristown, TN, we help dog owners get ahead of those issues before they spiral.


Woman and four dogs sit happily in a sunny park with green trees in the background. Bright, cheerful atmosphere with lens flare.
Enjoying a sunny day at the park, a group of well-behaved dogs sit happily alongside their owner.


Here are 5 dog behavior red flags you shouldn’t ignore:


  1. Sudden Aggression

    If your dog growls, snaps, or lunges—especially if this is new behavior—it’s a sign they feel unsafe, unbalanced, or territorial. Don’t assume it’ll pass.


  2. Excessive Barking or Whining

    All dogs vocalize, but constant barking or whining can indicate stress, boredom, or anxiety. It’s often a symptom of deeper issues like separation anxiety or poor impulse control.


  3. Leash Reactivity

    Does your dog go from zero to 100 the second you clip on the leash? Lunging, barking, or refusing to walk are signs of poor leash manners—and usually a lack of clear leadership.


  4. Destructive Behavior

    Chewed furniture, shredded blinds, or constant digging can be more than “puppy problems.” Destruction is often your dog’s way of coping with unspent energy or frustration.


  5. Ignoring Commands

    If your dog suddenly stops responding to cues they used to know, it’s not stubbornness—it’s confusion. Inconsistency or unclear boundaries may be at play.



Whether you’ve got a brand-new pup or a long-time companion showing new behaviors, early intervention matters. These 5 dog behavior red flags can be dealt with easily.


📲 Schedule a free consultation and let Integrity Canine turn red flags into real results.

 
 
 

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