Why Do Dogs LOVE Doing the Wrong Thing? (And How to Stop Them!)

Why Do Dogs LOVE Doing the Wrong Thing? (And How to Stop Them!)

Some dog behaviors are just too much fun to resist—at least from your dog’s perspective. Chasing cars? Exhilarating! Barking at the mailman? The highlight of the day! Digging a hole to the center of the earth? A masterpiece in progress!

These are what we call self-reinforcing behaviors—actions that are so rewarding for dogs that they’ll keep doing them, even if you’re standing there saying, “Buddy, NOOO!”

But don’t worry, you’re not doomed to a life of yelling “STOP THAT” on repeat. Let’s break down some of the biggest self-reinforcing behaviors and how to put a stop to them—without losing your sanity.

1. Barking at the Mailman (or Any Random Stranger!)

Why They Love It:

To your dog, the mail carrier is an intruder who shows up every single day. So, they bark. And what happens? The “intruder” leaves! Your dog thinks, Wow, I’m amazing at my job! Barking works!

How to Fix It:

• Break the cycle – If your dog can’t see the mailman, they won’t feel the need to bark. Close the blinds, block access to windows, or use frosted glass film.

• Change the meaning of the mailman – Toss treats before your dog starts barking so they associate the mail carrier with good things, not an impending invasion.

• Teach a quiet command – Reward them when they stop barking instead of just yelling “SHHH” (which, let’s be honest, they think means “BARK LOUDER”).

2. Chasing Cars, Joggers, or Anything That Moves

Why They Love It:

Chasing feels good. It taps into their natural prey drive, gives them a rush of excitement, and—if they manage to make the car or jogger disappear—it feels like victory.

How to Fix It:

• Manage the environment – Use a leash or fence to remove the opportunity. A dog that can’t chase is a dog that won’t chase.

• Teach an alternative behavior – Instead of lunging, train them to check in with you when they see movement. Reward them for looking at you instead of fixating on the target.

• Burn that energy! – Dogs that get enough exercise and mental stimulation are way less likely to need a high-speed chase for fun.

3. Digging Up Your Lawn Like They’re Looking for Buried Treasure

Why They Love It:

Digging is fun, cooling, and sometimes even rewarding (hello, buried treats and cool dirt!). Plus, some breeds (looking at you, Terriers!) are just hardwired to dig.

How to Fix It:

• Give them a legal digging spot – A sandbox or a designated “digging pit” can help satisfy their urge without destroying your yard. Bury toys to make it extra appealing.

• Supervise outdoor time – If your dog is a serial digger, don’t give them unsupervised yard access.

• Exercise their brain – Puzzle toys, nose work games, and training sessions can help redirect their energy away from excavation projects.

4. Counter Surfing (a.k.a. Your Dog’s Side Hustle as a Food Thief)

Why They Love It:

Stealing food is the ultimate jackpot. And once they’ve scored just once, they’ll keep trying forever.

How to Fix It:

• Remove the temptation – If there’s never food on the counter, there’s no reason to check. Keep surfaces clear.

• Teach impulse control – Use commands like “leave it” and “off” to teach them that waiting = better rewards.

• Reward good behavior – If they stay on the floor instead of counter-surfing, toss them a treat for making the right choice.

5. Pulling on the Leash Like a Sled Dog in Training

Why They Love It:

Pulling gets them where they want to go—faster!

How to Fix It:

• Don’t let pulling work – If the leash goes tight, stop moving. Only walk forward when the leash is loose.

• Use a front-clip harness – These discourage pulling by redirecting your dog toward you instead of letting them drag you forward.

• Reward good walking – Praise and treat your dog when they walk nicely beside you.

Final Thoughts: Make the Wrong Thing Boring & the Right Thing Fun!

Dogs do what works for them. If a behavior is fun, rewarding, or just plain instinctual, they’ll keep doing it. Your job? Make the unwanted behaviors boring and unrewarding while making the good behaviors more exciting and beneficial.

It takes patience, consistency, and sometimes a sense of humor (because let’s be real, dogs are extra sometimes). But with the right strategies, you can break those self-reinforcing habits—and maybe even save your sanity in the process.

Now, go forth and outsmart your clever canine!