Tips to Reduce Attention-Seeking Behavior in Dogs

Does your dog bark when you're on the phone, paw at you during TV time, or jump on you when you get home? These are classic signs of attention-seeking behavior—your dog's way of saying, "Hey, don't forget about me!"

While these behaviors might start off as minor annoyances, they can quickly turn into significant issues that test your patience and strain your relationship with your pet. So, why do these behaviors develop, and what can you do to curb them?

Attention-seeking behaviors are actions dogs use to get noticed by humans, such as barking, whining, jumping, pawing, or mouthing. If they successfully capture your attention, these behaviors can become irritating.

What Causes Attention-Seeking Behavior in Dogs?

According to veterinarians, these behaviors start as trial-and-error communication attempts. Dogs experiment with various actions to see which ones prompt a response from their owners.

For instance, if barking while you're on the phone gets you to interact with them, even just to quiet them, they'll learn that this behavior works. It doesn't take long for your dog to realize that barking whenever you're on the phone is an effective way to gain your attention. This is how a simple behavior turns into a persistent problem.

Tips To Stop Your Dog’s Attention - Seeking Behavior

Addressing your dog's attention-seeking will take time and patience. Initially, their behavior may even worsen as they escalate their efforts—what worked before, like whining, they'll try harder.

It’s important to stay consistent and patient. Here are some strategies to help manage your dog's behavior:

1. Reward Good Behavior

Encourage the behaviors you want by rewarding alternatives. For instance, if your dog jumps on you when you come home, teach them to sit as a greeting instead. Reward them for this behavior to reinforce it. If they seek play, teach them to bring a toy instead of using less desirable methods like mouthing.

Positive reinforcement helps your dog understand which behaviors are acceptable.

2. Ignore Unwanted Behavior

While teaching your dog new ways to communicate, it’s crucial to not reinforce negative behaviors. Ignore attempts to get your attention such as barking or jumping, but ensure this is fair. Make sure your dog's basic needs are met and that they aren’t in pain or unwell before choosing to ignore their attention-seeking.

Start by ignoring for brief periods, like thirty seconds, and gradually increase the duration. Consistency is key; if you give in, even once, it reinforces the unwanted behavior.

3. Control the Environment

Managing your dog's environment can prevent unwanted behaviors. For example, provide a chew toy before starting a phone call or use another room to make calls to avoid triggering their attention-seeking.

By avoiding situations that trigger these behaviors, you help your dog succeed. Creating a calm environment can also help reduce anxiety and the need for attention-seeking behavior.

4. Provide Enrichment

Meeting your dog’s needs reduces their need to seek attention. Establish a predictable routine for walks, playtime, and meals. Introduce activities like puzzle toys or snuffle mats to keep them engaged and mentally stimulated, giving them less reason to seek attention inappropriately. A well-exercised and mentally stimulated dog is less likely to engage in attention-seeking behavior.

4. Use Proper Training Tools 

Training tools like the Joyride Harness can also help manage your dog's behavior. A well-fitting harness can make walks more enjoyable and less stressful for both you and your dog. It helps reduce pulling and makes it easier to manage your dog in various situations, which can indirectly reduce attention-seeking behavior by providing a calm and controlled environment.

What if my dog feel scared? 

If your dog seems scared or anxious during training or when trying to curb attention-seeking behavior, it’s important to adjust your approach. Talk to them in a happy, soothing voice and remove them from the situation that’s causing stress. Use treats to encourage positive behavior. For example, if your dog is scared during training, let them perform an easy, fun trick like "sit" or "wave," reward them generously, and end the session on a positive note.

Allow your dog to approach scary things at their own pace and give them treats if they show interest from a safe distance. Don’t force them closer to what scares them, as it might make their fear worse. Gradual desensitization is key. Start by rewarding them for simply being in the presence of the scary object, then slowly decrease the distance over time as they get more comfortable.

When to seek professional help? 

If you've tried these strategies and your dog still exhibits attention-seeking behaviors, it might be time to consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can provide personalized advice and techniques tailored to your dog's specific needs. Sometimes, underlying issues like anxiety or medical problems can contribute to attention-seeking behavior, and a professional can help identify and address these issues.

Reducing your dog's attention-seeking behavior takes time, patience, and consistency

By rewarding good behavior, ignoring unwanted behavior, controlling the environment, providing enrichment, and using tools like the Joyride Harness, you can help your dog develop healthier ways to seek attention. Remember, the goal is to make training a positive and rewarding experience for both you and your dog.