Texas A&M research reveals even well-loved pets often display mild aggression, anxiety, or attachment issues
A new study led by Texas A&M University has revealed a surprising truth about man’s best friend: more than 99% of dogs in the United States exhibit at least one behavior that could be considered problematic.
While most of these behaviors are minor—like barking at the doorbell or whining when left alone—they are still important for owners and veterinarians to recognize and address before they potentially escalate.
The Most Common Behavior Issues Among U.S. Dogs
According to Dr. Bonnie Beaver, a veterinary behaviorist and professor at the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences at Texas A&M, the most prevalent issues reported were:
- Separation and attachment behaviors (85.9%)
- Aggression, such as growling or snapping (55.6%)
- Fear and anxiety-related behaviors (49.9%)
These findings are based on data from the Dog Aging Project, which includes detailed surveys filled out by thousands of dog owners across the country. In total, over 50,000 dogs were enrolled.
But Dr. Beaver emphasizes that the numbers don’t necessarily mean most dogs are poorly behaved or dangerous—just that nearly every dog shows at least one behavior that owners might find inconvenient or mildly concerning.
Why These Behaviors Go Unmentioned
Despite the high prevalence, many of these problems go unreported. One reason, Dr. Beaver says, is that dog owners simply don’t mention them during vet visits. “They may not think something like barking at delivery drivers is worth bringing up,” she explained.
In fact, only about half of veterinarians routinely ask pet owners about behavioral issues. That gap in communication can mean missed opportunities for early intervention.
To help bridge that gap, Dr. Beaver recommends using questionnaires before appointments. Giving owners time to reflect on their dog’s behavior increases the likelihood they’ll bring up something that’s been bothering them.
When Behavior Becomes Dangerous
Not all behavior problems are harmless. Aggressive behaviors, in particular, can pose risks—especially in homes with children. Dr. Beaver warns that aggression is often misunderstood and frequently stems from fear or environmental stress.
“Dogs don’t bite out of nowhere,” she said. “They’re reacting to something, whether it’s a stranger approaching too quickly or a child grabbing their ears.”
She urges parents to supervise all interactions between kids and dogs. Children under the age of seven are the most likely to be bitten, often because they miss the subtle signs a dog is stressed or overwhelmed.
Understanding What Your Dog is Trying to Say
Ultimately, understanding dog behavior starts with education. Canine body language, such as a tucked tail, raised hackles, or lip licking, can offer early clues to how a dog is feeling.
“There are tons of resources available, including videos, illustrations, and articles from veterinary experts,” Dr. Beaver said. “Dog owners should take the time to learn what their dog is trying to communicate.”
