Dogs bring immense joy and companionship into our lives, but sometimes, they also have behaviors that can be frustrating for their owners. Whether it’s chewing up furniture, barking incessantly, or rolling in something foul, dogs have a knack for causing chaos. Here are ten common things dogs do that can drive their owners mad—and how to handle them.

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1. Chewing on Everything

Two dogs looking guilty after destroying pillow — Source: Canva by smrm1977 from Getty Images

One of the most common complaints from dog owners is destructive chewing. Shoes, furniture, remote controls—nothing is safe from a dog’s powerful jaws. Puppies chew to relieve teething pain, while adult dogs might chew due to boredom, anxiety, or lack of proper training. Providing chew toys and ensuring they get enough exercise can help curb this behavior.

2. Constant Barking

Dog barking beside his owner — Source: Canva by Capuski from Getty Images Signature

While barking is a natural way for dogs to communicate, excessive barking can be a major nuisance. Dogs may bark out of boredom, fear, excitement, or as a form of protection. Training, socialization, and addressing the root cause of their barking can help reduce unnecessary noise.

3. Jumping on People

Female owner playing with dog at home — Source: Canva by Ivan Babydov from Pexels

Dogs often jump on people as a way of greeting, but this can be annoying or even dangerous, especially for children and elderly individuals. Teaching them the “sit” command and rewarding calm behavior can help prevent this habit.

4. Begging for Food

happy dog with tongue out — Image by Pexels from Pixabay

Few things are more irritating than a dog staring at you with those pleading eyes while you eat. Many owners give in and offer scraps, which only reinforces the behavior. The best way to prevent begging is to ignore it and ensure your dog has its own mealtime routine.

5. Rolling in Smelly Things

dog on its back — Photo by James Haworth on Unsplash

Dogs have a bizarre love for rolling in the most disgusting things they can find—dead animals, garbage, or even feces. It’s an instinctual behavior, possibly linked to disguising their scent. Regular bathing and keeping a close eye on them during walks can help mitigate this issue.

6. Digging Up the Yard

dog dig — Image by Mark Miller from Pixabay

Dogs dig for various reasons, including boredom, hunting instincts, or seeking shelter. While some breeds are more prone to digging than others, owners can try providing designated digging spots or increasing exercise and mental stimulation to curb the habit.

7. Stealing and Hiding Items

dog with sock — Photo by Graham Smith on Unsplash

Many dogs have a habit of stealing socks, shoes, or even food from the table and hiding them in their secret stash. This behavior can stem from playfulness, boredom, or an instinct to hoard resources. Providing engaging toys and training them with positive reinforcement can help curb their thieving tendencies.

8. Ignoring Commands

dog 1407468 1280 — Image by Sven from Pixabay

Few things are more frustrating than a dog that refuses to listen. Some dogs are stubborn, while others may not have been trained consistently. Ensuring consistency, rewarding good behavior, and using positive reinforcement can improve obedience.

9. Chasing Everything That Moves

Dogs playing outside in a backyard — Source: Canva by Sharon Gucker from Getty Images

Dogs have a natural prey drive, and many love to chase after cars, bicycles, squirrels, or even other pets. This behavior can be dangerous, both for the dog and others. Training them with commands like “leave it” and keeping them on a leash in high-traffic areas can help manage their impulses.

10. Peeing in the House

dog being told off — Source: Canva by SeventyFour

Housebreaking issues are one of the most frustrating problems for dog owners. Whether due to excitement, marking territory, or incomplete training, accidents in the house can be aggravating. Consistent potty training, rewarding outdoor bathroom use, and addressing any medical concerns with a vet can help eliminate this behavior.

11. Shredding Important Stuff—Not the Junk

english cocker spaniel — Photo by Joanna on Unsplash

Your dog could have chewed up that old slipper in the corner. Instead, they went for your passport, your expensive headphones, or that hand-written letter from Grandma. Somehow, they always find the one thing that actually matters.

12. Sleeping Horizontally on the Bed

old english bulldogs — PC: Wikipedia Resarf-28

You were invited to share the bed, right? Too bad your dog took that as an invitation to stretch out sideways like a furry battering ram. Bonus points if they manage to kick you in the kidneys at 3 a.m. and look offended when you move.

13. Ignoring You at the Park… Until It’s Time to Leave

border terrier dog — Photo by Emil Priver on Unsplash

At home, they’re glued to your side. At the park? Suddenly you don’t exist. Calling their name turns into a game of “catch me if you can”—until it’s time to leave. Then they magically reappear, often muddy, soaked, and thrilled with themselves.

14. Spinning in Circles Before Doing… Anything

Belgian Malinois dog — Photo by Gerrie van der Walt on Unsplash

Need to go out? Eat? Poop? Your dog must first perform their ceremonial spin routine. Whether it’s a full tornado on the leash or 15 dramatic circles before lying down, this little quirk can be hilarious—or infuriating—when you’re already running late.

15. Bolting Out the Door Like It’s the Indy 500

german short haired pointer dog — Photo by Marie-Pier Fillion on Unsplash

Open a door a crack, and whoosh—they’re gone. It doesn’t matter if it’s just to grab a package or check the mail. That sudden bolt into the great unknown gives you a mini heart attack every time. It’s not rebellion—it’s just… excitement overload, apparently.

Is Your Dog Guilty of These 15 Annoying Behaviors?