Grouchy Dog Is It A Warning
or Just Their Disposition

A grouchy dog can seem like they have a serious attitude problem but sometimes there is more to a growl or a bad disposition. Every dog has their own unique personality and characteristics and this definitely includes their temperament.

The first thing to consider is the breed of the dog you are considering. Each breed tends to have tendencies toward different temperaments and personalities.

Now while this can be used to help guide your decision, I don't recommend that you automatically stereotype each breed of dog, by saying that breed is a grouchy dog breed, because a great deal of a dog's temperament also comes from their upbringing and how they are treated and trained.

You should should consider their various activity level as well because this is also a part of their personality. For example, a smaller dog such as a Chihuahua is often very active at different times of the day and will run around the house as if possessed. Lol!

However, when they run out of energy, they will head right back to their favorite spot – often on their pet parent's lap – and have a nice long nap.

However, when they run out of energy, they will head right back to their favorite spot – often on their pet parent's lap – and have a nice long nap.

Whereas, a working dog like a Border Collie will tolerate some laying around in the house, they need lots of exercise and activity. They will demand your attention and playtime each and everyday and usually several times a day.

They need a large area to run and jump and have fun in each and everyday. If you cannot provide that, then neither of you will be happy and you definitely will have a grouchy dog. I often hear people talking about a grouchy dog or how it has a bad disposition. Well, I personally believe that no dog is truly born that way, they are made that way.

If you take the time to choose a dog that is truly a good match to you and your lifestyle, then neither of you will irritate the other and will make for happy roomies.

So know yourself before choosing. Does a hyper dog running around drive your crazy or are you kinda hyper yourself? Maybe you like to lounge around on the couch and a more laid back dog is what your looking for?

Remember to consider size as well. One fairly laid back dog is a St. Bernard but do you have room for a extra large dog like that? On the other hand a Basset Hound is generally laid back and loves to spend their afternoons snoozing on the couch but if you love to get up and go, a Basset Hound is probably not for you.

Sometimes you will hear that certain dogs are difficult to train or are bullheaded or even can't be trained. Generally what you are talking about here is a really smart dog that is highly independent and thinks they can do it quite well without your input! LOL!

For example, a border collie is an outstanding working dog and they train easily but if you don't stay on top of their training and continue to work with them on a regular basis, they tend to start adding their own little working habit flares into the herding routine. Just ask Rodeo's dad – NOT a good subject! LOL!

A dog with that type of background would be better off in a home with a limited number of people and no other animals and especially no children. They can definitely be taught to overcome their aggressive behavior but will never forget it.

Which is why it's important to know as much about the dog you are getting as possible. Where was it born and who raised it? Did it come from a pet store where it potentially could have had a bad experience or exposed to poor or even disrespectful store personnel?

What happens is that the dog may not even be reacting to something that bad in the present situation but it reminds him of something from a memory that he fears and that is based on old memories.

It's important if this is the case, that you take the time to stop and quietly and slowly reassure your dog. Be kind and gentle to show him that you can be trusted and that you would never hurt or punish him in a physical manner.

However, if you are doing things like withholding their dinner and or water that is just cruel and you should never ever withhold basic necessities from your dog!!! The dog will only react badly and will actually resent you and probably defy you even worse as a way of dealing with your mistreatment, in other words you will definitely have a grouchy dog.

It's important if this is the case, that you take the time to stop and quietly and slowly reassure your dog. Be kind and gentle to show him that you can be trusted and that you would never hurt or punish him in a physical manner.

To avoid bringing on grouchy dog behavior or encouraging old bad attitudes, don't enforce bad training or discipline techniques. If you withhold a treat during training for misbehavior that is reasonable as long as you are not asking for perfection.

However, if you are doing things like withholding their dinner and or water that is just cruel and you should never ever withhold basic necessities from your dog!!! The dog will only react badly and will actually resent you and probably defy you even worse as a way of dealing with your mistreatment.

My point is, that becoming a pet parent is an adventure and certainly doesn't come with any promises or guarantees. It is your responsibility to make a good matching dog choice and love and care and give that special dog a good home. If you cannot make that commitment, then try a virtual pet online until you're ready for the real thing.

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