Almost all dog behavior problems stem from improper training, and the reason poor training is so prevalent is that most dog owners do not understand how their dogs think. People often mistake dogs for being more "human" than they really are. Sure, dogs and people have quite a bit in common. But in order to realize why your dog isn't learning, you have to think like a dog.

Dogs live in the moment. If a dog tears into your favorite stuffed animal while you are away, it will probably have no idea why you are angry when you get home. Even if he's lying in his bed surrounded by the remnants of a $1,000 collector's item teddy bear, he still will not understand why you are upset. But if you see the dog lunging for the teddy bear on your bed, and you startle him with a firm, "NO," a trained dog will get the idea.

Prevent Dog Behavior Problems with Common Sense
No matter how well you have trained your dog to obey commands, his instincts will always remain. That fuzzy stuffed animal may appeal to your dog's ancient hunting mind. You cannot change that. Remember those cartoons where an angel and the devil sit on opposite shoulders of a character, each whispering their own advice? If you, as the master, are the angel, then the dog's natural inclinations play the role of the devil. In most cartoons, the devil's persuasiveness is just too much for the cartoon character--and many cartoon characters are dogs!

No matter how well-behaved your dog is, do not tempt him or her. When the dog is home alone, close the doors to the rooms you want to be off limits. If you do not want your dog eating off the table, do not leave a plate of juicy hamburgers hanging off its edge. Many civilized people cannot resist eating what they are not supposed to, so how can you expect more from a dog?