Dogs dig for lots of reasons – boredom, anxiety, hunting instincts or simply to cool down. The first step is to make sure your dog is getting plenty of exercise and mental stimulation each day, as under-stimulated dogs are far more likely to dig out of frustration. You can also create a designated digging zone in your yard (like a sandpit) and encourage them to use it by burying toys or treats. Supervise outdoor time, redirect the behaviour when you see it start, and block access to garden beds if needed. If the digging seems excessive or driven by anxiety, chat to your vet for tailored advice.

Excessive barking can be driven by boredom, fear, excitement or attention-seeking. Start by ensuring your dog is getting enough daily exercise, enrichment and play. Identify what triggers the barking and work on gentle desensitisation: reward calm behaviour when the trigger is present and avoid accidentally reinforcing barking. Teaching a “quiet” cue can help, but punishment tends to make barking worse. If your dog barks due to anxiety or if you’re struggling to manage it, speak to your vet for extra support.

Toilet training is all about routine and positive reinforcement. Take your dog to the same toilet spot after meals, naps, play sessions and first thing in the morning. Use a consistent cue like “toilet” and reward them immediately when they go in the right place. Watch for signs they need to go, such as circling or heading to the door, and act quickly. Accidents will happen – just clean the area thoroughly with an enzyme cleaner to remove odours. With patience, consistency and praise, most dogs learn quickly, though every pup progresses at their own pace.

If your dog’s spending more time licking or chewing their paws, it can signal anything from simple irritation to a hidden issue. They may have a foreign object like a grass seed lodged between their toes, causing swelling and discomfort. Other common reasons include allergies, skin infections, parasites or anxiety – licking becomes a reflex to relieve itch or discomfort. If the behaviour is frequent, focused on one paw or accompanied by redness, swelling or limping, it’s time to chat to your vet. They can check for underlying causes, advise on treatment and guide when paw-licking is simply a habit rather than a problem.

Teaching your dog to “sit” is one of the easiest ways to introduce them to basic obedience. Start with your dog standing in front of you and hold a treat close to their nose. Slowly lift the treat up and back – most dogs naturally sit to follow the movement. As soon as they do, say “sit,” give the treat and offer praise. Practise in short, frequent sessions, gradually phasing out treats as your dog becomes more reliable. Once learned, “sit” becomes a great tool for calming excited behaviour in busy environments.

Crate training helps your dog feel safe and secure, and it’s a useful tool for settling, sleep routines and toilet training. Begin by introducing the crate slowly, keeping the door open and placing treats, toys or meals inside to build positive associations. Once your dog enters willingly, close the door for short periods while you stay nearby, gradually increasing the duration. Never use the crate for punishment and always ensure your dog has exercised and gone to the toilet beforehand. With patience and consistency, the crate becomes a cosy retreat rather than a confinement space.