As dog trainers, we often encounter cases where pet owners struggle with their dog’s unwanted behaviors—barking, aggression, destructiveness, or even withdrawal. What many don’t realize is that these behaviors may not be training problems at all, but rather symptoms of underlying medical conditions.  

   

Dogs, like people, experience discomfort and illness that can affect their mood and behavior. A dog that suddenly growls when touched might not be “stubborn” or “dominant” but could be in chronic pain. A dog that refuses to go outside could be suffering from anxiety or sensory discomfort.  

   

Over my 20+ years as a professional trainer, I have found that often times, a sudden change in a pet’s behavior can be caused by an underlying medical condition. This is why it’s crucial for dog owners to consider medical factors before attempting to modify behavior through training alone.  

   

Medical Conditions That Can Affect Behavior  

   

1. Chronic Pain (Arthritis, Injuries, Dental Issues)  

   

Pain is one of the most overlooked reasons for behavior changes in dogs. A normally social dog that becomes reactive or aggressive when touched could be experiencing pain from arthritis, hip dysplasia, or even a hidden injury. Dental pain can also cause irritability, especially if a dog resists having their face touched.  

   

What to look for:  

• Sensitivity to touch  

• Sudden aggression or withdrawal  

• Reluctance to jump, run, or play  

• Changes in posture or gait  

   

2. Allergies and Skin Conditions  

   

Dogs with food or environmental allergies may scratch excessively, lick their paws, or chew at their skin, leading to frustration and stress-based behaviors. Some dogs become hyperactive or irritable due to the discomfort.  

   

Signs to look for:  

• Excessive licking, chewing, or scratching  

• Hair loss or skin irritation  

• Recurring ear infections  

• Gastrointestinal issues (diarrhea, vomiting)  

   

3. Clinical Anxiety and Neurological Disorders  

   

While some dogs are naturally cautious, clinical anxiety is a medical condition that requires more than basic training. Dogs with anxiety disorders may react with excessive fear, compulsive behaviors, or even aggression in situations that wouldn’t normally warrant such reactions.  

   

Signs to look for:  

• Extreme fear of noises, people, or environments  

• Panic behaviors like excessive drooling, pacing, or escape attempts  

• Compulsive behaviors (tail chasing, excessive as licking, shadow chasing)  

   

Dogs communicate their discomfort through behavior, and it’s our job to listen. A professional with years of experience and a positive based approach can help. If your dog is showing new or escalating behavioral issues, don’t assume it’s purely a training problem—consider the possibility of a medical issue. By working together with veterinarians, trainers, and behaviorists, we can ensure that your pet gets the right attention to thrive both physically and emotionally.  

   

At Evolutionary Dog Training, we take a science-based, compassionate approach to understanding and improving your dog’s behavior.  We’ll assist you in determining the most suitable approach, which may involve training, medical care, or a combination of both, to help your dog regain its positive behavior.