How to stop your dog from scratching the door?
Whether you are having a mini Aussie doodle, Shih Tzu, Chihuahua, or Cane Corso, each of them can scratch your door. Ok, there won’t be major damage from small breed dogs but still, it’s not good behavior.
Several reasons can lead to destructive behavior. If you’re tired of dealing with scratched doors and want to find a solution, we’ve laid out effective methods and techniques worth trying.
Why is your dog scratching a door?
Dogs are acting that way because things are not going in their favor. Potentially, they’re feeling stressed or simply want to go out.
If your companion is left home alone 9-5 while you’re working, it could result in destructive behavior. They are not getting enough attention from you and couldn’t see that scratching is bad. Dogs act instinctively and strive to socialize with humans.
During your absence from home, your dog can feel scared of many things especially if he is still a puppy or in his early life stages.
Another reason why your dog is scratching a door can be a lack of proper training. Dogs haven’t been taught alternative and acceptable behaviors. Proper training and reinforcement can help redirect their attention elsewhere.
Teach them to sit, lie down, or go to their designated area when they feel the urge to scratch the door. Reward them with praise, treats, or playtime when they exhibit these behaviors.
However, there is a solution for every issue and all damaged doors. But, please don’t punish your dog it could increase their anxiety.
Identifying the possible causes for your dog’s door-scratching behavior is crucial for finding a solution that works.
How to stop a dog from scratching a door?
Ignore their overreactions. Our furry friends can learn very fast which behaviors are rewarded. So if you consistently ignore bad behavior and reward good behavior, you can help your dog to learn why behaving calmly when left alone is important.
Ensure your dog remains entertained. Try to use positive reinforcement, such as treats or toys, to create positive associations with being alone.
Make sure your furry friend gets enough physical activity. Daily walks, visits to the dog park, or playing fetch are excellent ways to tire out your dog and prevent boredom-induced door scratching.
Don’t make a big deal of your home departures and arrivals. Act calm when you leave or come home, as this can increase your dog’s anxiety.
What else you can do to stop your dog’s scratching behavior?
Another approach is to create physical barriers that restrict your dog’s access to the door. You can install a baby gate or use a pet door gate to prevent your dog from reaching the door.
- process of installation is easy and you can use 2 methods
- adjustable size
- double lock design
- perfect fit
- install at the bottom of stairways, doorways, hallways
- durable
- reduce stress
- adjustable angles
- keeps your dog occupied
- metal and aluminum
- 4 sizes
- all types of interior and exterior walls
If none of these tactics and efforts of alternative solutions are not resulting in your favor and the scratching behavior continues, it is time to seek professional help.
Professional dog trainers or veterinarians can provide more specific insights and guidance for your dog’s behavior.