Why Does My Dog...? UK's Most Searched Dog Behaviour Questions Answered

The Questions Every UK Dog Owner Is Asking Google

If you've ever found yourself typing "Why does my dog..." into Google at 2am, you're not alone. British dog owners are searching for answers to their canine companions' puzzling behaviours more than ever before. From grass-eating to lead-pulling, we've analysed the UK's most searched dog behaviour questions to bring you expert-backed answers that actually work.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll tackle the behaviours that keep UK dog parents up at night, explain the science behind them, and provide practical solutions you can implement today. Whether you're a new puppy parent or an experienced dog owner facing new challenges, these insights will help you understand your furry friend better.

"Why Does My Dog Eat Grass?" - The UK's #1 Dog Behaviour Question

This is hands-down the most searched dog behaviour question in the UK, and for good reason. Nearly every dog owner has watched their beloved pet munching on grass during a walk and wondered if something's wrong.

The Science Behind Grass-Eating

The good news? Grass-eating is completely normal behaviour for most dogs. Here's why your dog might be doing it:

• Digestive aid: Dogs may eat grass to help with upset stomachs or to induce vomiting when they feel unwell
• Nutritional instinct: Wild canines consumed plant matter in their prey's stomachs; modern dogs may retain this instinct
• Boredom or anxiety: Some dogs eat grass simply because they're understimulated or anxious
• Taste preference: Believe it or not, some dogs just enjoy the taste and texture of fresh grass
• Fibre supplementation: Grass provides roughage that can aid digestion

When to Worry About Grass-Eating

Whilst occasional grass-eating is normal, contact your vet if you notice:

• Excessive grass consumption (more than a few mouthfuls per walk)
• Frequent vomiting after eating grass
• Lethargy or loss of appetite
• Changes in stool consistency
• Eating grass treated with pesticides or chemicals

UK-specific concern: Many British parks and gardens use lawn treatments. Always ensure your dog is wearing a secure collar with ID tags and keep them on a lead in treated areas to prevent excessive grass consumption.

"Why Does My Dog Pull on the Lead?" - The Walking Struggle

Lead-pulling is one of the most frustrating behaviours for UK dog owners, particularly in busy urban areas like London, Manchester, and Birmingham. Searches for "how to stop dog pulling on lead UK" spike every January as New Year's resolution-makers commit to better dog training.

Why Dogs Pull on the Lead

Understanding the root cause is essential for solving this common problem:

• Natural pace difference: Dogs naturally walk faster than humans—their comfortable pace is about 4-5 mph compared to our 3 mph
• Excitement and stimulation: The outside world is thrilling! Every smell, sound, and sight is an adventure
• Lack of training: If pulling has always worked to get where they want to go, they'll continue doing it
• Inadequate exercise: Pent-up energy manifests as pulling and lunging
• Poor equipment: Standard collars can actually encourage pulling

Proven Solutions for Lead-Pulling

1. Invest in a No-Pull Harness
A properly fitted no-pull harness is a game-changer for UK dog owners. Unlike collars that can damage your dog's throat when they pull, harnesses distribute pressure across the chest and discourage pulling through their design. This is particularly important for strong breeds like Labradors and Staffies, which are incredibly popular in the UK.

2. The "Stop and Wait" Method
Every time your dog pulls, stop walking immediately. Wait until the lead goes slack, then continue. This teaches your dog that pulling doesn't get them where they want to go. Consistency is key—this method works brilliantly but requires patience.

3. Reward-Based Training
Carry high-value treats on walks. Every time your dog walks nicely beside you, reward them. Popular UK training treats include small pieces of chicken, cheese, or commercial training treats available at Pets at Home.

4. Pre-Walk Exercise
A quick 10-minute play session in the garden before your walk can take the edge off your dog's excitement, making them calmer on the lead.

5. Change Your Route
If your dog always pulls towards the same park or path, try varying your route. This reduces anticipation and gives you more control.

"Why Does My Dog Lick Me So Much?" - Understanding Canine Affection

"Why does my dog lick my face?" and "Why does my dog lick me excessively?" are amongst the top 10 most searched dog behaviour questions in the UK. Whilst we often interpret licking as kisses, there's more to this behaviour than simple affection.

Reasons Behind Excessive Licking

• Affection and bonding: Yes, licking is a sign of love! Dogs lick to show affection and strengthen social bonds
• Attention-seeking: If licking gets them attention (even negative attention), they'll continue doing it
• Taste: Your skin tastes salty and interesting to dogs, especially after exercise
• Stress or anxiety: Some dogs lick excessively when anxious or stressed
• Learned behaviour: If you've always responded positively to licking, your dog has learned it's rewarding
• Exploration: Puppies especially use licking to explore their world

When Licking Becomes a Problem

Excessive licking can indicate:

• Anxiety or obsessive-compulsive behaviours
• Skin allergies (if they're licking themselves excessively)
• Gastrointestinal issues (if accompanied by lip-smacking)
• Dental problems (if focused on licking objects or air)

If your dog's licking seems compulsive or is accompanied by other symptoms, consult your vet. UK pet insurance often covers behavioural consultations, so check your policy.

"Why Does My Dog Follow Me Everywhere?" - Your Canine Shadow

British dog owners frequently search "why does my dog follow me to the bathroom?" and "why is my dog so clingy?" This behaviour, known as "Velcro dog syndrome," is incredibly common, especially in breeds like Cocker Spaniels, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Labradors—all top UK favourites.

Understanding Clingy Behaviour

• Pack mentality: Dogs are pack animals; staying close to their "pack leader" is natural
• Breed characteristics: Companion breeds were specifically developed to stay close to humans
• Positive reinforcement: If following you results in attention, treats, or walks, they'll continue
• Separation anxiety: Some dogs follow excessively due to anxiety about being left alone
• Boredom: An understimulated dog will seek entertainment by following you

Is It a Problem?

Following behaviour is usually harmless and even endearing. However, if it's accompanied by:

• Destructive behaviour when left alone
• Excessive barking or whining
• House soiling when you're away
• Pacing or panting when you move to another room

...your dog may have separation anxiety and would benefit from professional training or behavioural therapy.

"Why Does My Dog Bark at Nothing?" - Phantom Noises Explained

UK dog owners living in flats and terraced houses are particularly concerned about barking, with searches for "how to stop dog barking at nothing" and "why does my dog bark at night UK" being extremely common.

What Your Dog Is Really Hearing

Your dog isn't barking at "nothing"—they're responding to stimuli you can't detect:

• Superior hearing: Dogs hear frequencies up to 65,000 Hz (humans only hear up to 20,000 Hz)
• Distant sounds: Dogs can hear sounds four times farther away than humans
• Wildlife: Foxes, hedgehogs, and cats are common in UK gardens and trigger barking
• Neighbours: In terraced housing, dogs hear activity through walls
• Delivery drivers: The postman, Amazon deliveries, and food couriers are constant triggers in UK neighbourhoods

Managing Alert Barking

For UK-specific situations:

• Postman training: Desensitise your dog to the letterbox by practising with a friend posting treats through it
• White noise: Particularly helpful in flats to mask neighbour sounds
• Window film: Prevents your dog from seeing every passerby on busy UK streets
• "Quiet" command training: Reward silence rather than punishing barking
• Mental stimulation: A tired dog is a quiet dog—invest in puzzle toys and interactive games

"Why Does My Dog Sleep So Much?" - Understanding Canine Sleep Patterns

New dog owners especially worry about their pet's sleep habits, searching "how many hours should a dog sleep UK?" and "is my dog sleeping too much?"

Normal Sleep Patterns

Dogs sleep significantly more than humans:

• Adult dogs: 12-14 hours per day
• Puppies: 18-20 hours per day
• Senior dogs: 16-18 hours per day
• Large breeds: Often sleep more than small breeds

This is completely normal! Dogs are crepuscular, meaning they're most active at dawn and dusk. During the day, especially whilst you're at work, sleeping is their primary activity.

When to Worry

Contact your vet if your dog's sleep patterns change suddenly or if they show:

• Difficulty waking or extreme lethargy
• Sleeping significantly more than usual (20+ hours for adults)
• Restless sleep with frequent waking
• Changes in appetite or behaviour
• Signs of pain when moving after sleep

Essential Equipment for Managing Dog Behaviour

Having the right tools makes addressing behavioural issues much easier. UK dog owners are investing in quality equipment that supports training and safety:

Training Essentials

• No-pull harnesses: Essential for lead training and preventing pulling
• Training leads: Longer leads (2-3 metres) give dogs freedom whilst maintaining control
• ID collars: UK law requires dogs to wear ID tags in public spaces
• Treat pouches: Keep rewards accessible during training walks
• Interactive toys: Mental stimulation reduces problem behaviours
• Grooming tools: Regular grooming sessions strengthen your bond and reduce anxiety

Safety Equipment for UK Dog Owners

• Car safety harnesses: Required by UK law; prevents injury and distraction whilst driving
• Reflective gear: Essential for dark winter walks (UK sunset can be as early as 3:45pm in December)
• LED collars: Increase visibility during early morning and evening walks
• Poo bag dispensers: UK law requires cleaning up after your dog; fines up to £1,000

What's Coming Next in This Series

Now that you understand your dog's behaviour better, you'll want to give them the perfect name! In our next article, we'll explore the UK's most popular dog names for 2025, from classic British choices to trending celebrity-inspired names.

Coming soon:

• Part 3: The Ultimate Guide to Dog Names: UK's Most Popular Choices for 2025 (Discover whether Luna, Bella, or Milo will top the charts!)
• Part 4: Dog Health & Wellness Trends: What UK Pet Parents Need to Know (From pet insurance to preventative care)

Missed Part 1? Catch up with our article on The UK's Most Searched Dog Breeds in 2024-2025 to discover which breeds are trending and why.

Your Questions Answered

Understanding your dog's behaviour is the foundation of a happy, healthy relationship. Whether your dog is eating grass, pulling on the lead, or following you to the bathroom, these behaviours are usually normal expressions of canine nature rather than problems to be solved.

The key is observation, patience, and having the right equipment to support positive behaviours. With quality dog accessories designed for British dog owners, you can address training challenges whilst keeping your furry friend safe, comfortable, and stylish.

Ready to tackle your dog's behavioural challenges? Explore our complete range of training accessories and no-pull harnesses designed specifically for UK dog owners. From busy London streets to peaceful countryside walks, we've got everything you need for better behaviour and happier walks.