Dog Behavior Explained

Welcome to OodleLife’s easy guides on Dog Behavior and Training, brought to you by our friendly dog experts. Here, we’re all about helping you and your furry friend live happily together.

We understand how important it is to know what makes your dog tick and how to teach them right from wrong. In this guide, we’ll show you how your dog’s actions are connected to how they feel inside, and we’ll share simple ways to train them effectively.

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Search our database of over 2500+ posts with up-to-date information from our dog experts and veterinarians.

Most Popular Dog Behavior Articles

Our team of dog experts at OodleLife has lots of experience and loves to share tips on everything from basic commands to helping your dog feel calm and secure. Our Veterinarian review team (learn more) keeps the content up to date with the latest health guidelines.

Whether you’re dealing with a pup who loves to chew shoes or an older dog that’s a bit set in their ways, we’ve got your back.

A close-up portrait of a loyal and affectionate dog in a grassy setting.

Will Dogs Protect Their Owners? The Truth About Canine Loyalty

Dogs are known for their loyalty, but will they actually protect their owners? It depends. Breed, training, and past experiences all play a role…

A group of furry pets - a dog, a cat, and a poodle-like dog - sitting together.

Where Do Dogs Like to Be Petted? The Best Spots for Bonding

Dogs have specific spots they prefer to be petted, and knowing these can strengthen your bond. The chest, shoulders, and belly are common areas…

A friendly Bernese mountain dog gazing directly at the camera from a grassy field.

Why Dogs Turn on Owners: The Hidden Triggers & Fixes

Dogs rarely attack their owners without reason. Most cases involve underlying triggers like pain (arthritis, injuries), fear (past trauma, loud noises), or poor training…

Close-up of a relaxed, curled-up dog resting on a soft, textured surface.

How Do Dogs Think? Exploring Their Emotional Intelligence

Dogs think through a blend of emotions, instincts, and experiences. They process the world using their cognitive abilities, from problem-solving and memory to sensing…

A close-up of a puppy's open mouth, suggesting the need to understand when a dog's teething phase may end to provide appropriate care and comfort.

When Do Dogs Stop Teething? Help Your Puppy Feel Better

Puppies typically stop teething around 7 months of age, transitioning from their baby teeth to adult teeth. This process can be uncomfortable, but with…

Two dogs walking on a forest trail, suggesting a discussion around animal behavior and environmental factors.

Why Dogs Bury Bones: Find Out Their Instinctual Behavior

Dogs bury bones due to instincts inherited from their wild ancestors, like wolves. This behavior reflects their natural drive to protect resources, preserve food,…

A group of three dogs, each with their own unique tail position and expression

Why Dogs Wag Their Tails: Decode Their Emotions and Signals

I’ve always been fascinated by how dogs communicate—watching their body language is like unraveling a secret code. My neighbor’s dog, Baxter, for instance, has…

A fluffy, golden-colored dog leaning against a wooden structure and looking up, with a blurred green background.

Why Do Dogs Howl? Key Information About Their Instincts and Emotions

Dogs howl as a natural instinct, deeply rooted in their ancestry as pack animals. It’s their way of communicating—alerting others to their presence, signaling…

Why Do Dogs Lick You? Uncover Their Affectionate Signals 1

Why Do Dogs Lick You? Uncover Their Affectionate Signals

Ever wondered why your dog licks you? It’s more than just a sign of affection. Dogs lick for various reasons, including to communicate, explore…

how to get a dog to sleep

How to Get a Dog to Sleep? [20 Strategies]

Getting your dog to sleep soundly and comfortably is vital for their overall health and well-being. As a responsible pet owner, you might have…

why do dogs like shoes

Why Do Dogs Like Shoes so Much? [Explained]

Dogs like shoes mainly for their smell, which is comforting and familiar. Shoes retain the owner’s scent, making dogs feel closer. Other reasons include…

4 month old puppy having accidents

4 Month Old Puppy Having Accidents: Expert Solutions to Common Issues

Raising a 4-month-old puppy can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. One common hurdle…

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Search our database of over 2500+ posts with up-to-date information from our dog experts and veterinarians.