Why Does My Dog Growl When I Pet Him? Explained

Introduction

If you have ever wondered why does my dog growl when I pet him, you are not alone. Growling during petting is one of the most misunderstood canine behaviors. While many owners assume it means aggression, a growl can communicate many different emotions, including discomfort, fear, overstimulation, excitement, or even contentment. Understanding the context behind the growl is essential for interpreting your dog's needs and preventing misunderstandings. This guide explains the different types of growling, what they mean, and how owners should respond based on veterinary and behavioral best practices.

By Ashleigh Anderson | Pet Care & Animal Wellness Expert

Last Updated: June 2026

Quick Summary

• Dogs growl during petting for many reasons, including pain, fear, overstimulation, resource guarding, and affectionate pleasure growling.

• Growling is a communication tool, not automatically a sign of aggression.

• Body language, timing, and context help determine whether a growl is friendly or a warning.

• Sudden growling, especially when paired with stiffness or showing teeth, should be evaluated by a veterinarian or qualified behavior professional.

• Punishing a growl can increase bite risk by removing an important warning signal.

What Does It Mean When a Dog Growls While Being Petted?

A dog that growls while being petted is communicating something important. The meaning depends on the situation, body language, environment, and the dog's emotional state. Growling exists on a spectrum ranging from contentment and excitement to discomfort and serious warning.

Many owners ask, "What does a low growl from a dog mean?" A low rumbling growl can indicate deep relaxation in some dogs, while in others it may be an early warning that they are becoming uncomfortable. Context is always the deciding factor.

A useful way to understand growling is through this chain:

Growl → Intent → Context → Appropriate Response

The same vocalization can mean very different things depending on what the dog is experiencing at that moment.

Dog Growling as a Form of Communication

Dogs use vocal signals much like humans use tone of voice. Growling is one of the primary ways dogs communicate boundaries, emotions, and intentions.

A growl is not an attack. It is often a warning system that allows a dog to communicate before escalating to stronger defensive behaviors.

Common messages communicated through growling include:

• "Please stop what you're doing."

• "I am uncomfortable."

• "I am protecting something valuable."

• "I am startled."

• "I am excited."

• "I am enjoying this interaction."

In our experience working with dogs of different temperaments, owners often focus on the sound itself rather than the entire behavioral picture. Looking at body language alongside the growl provides a much more accurate interpretation.

This explains why some owners ask:

• Why is my dog growling at me when I touch him?

• Why is my dog randomly growling at me?

In most cases, the growl has a specific trigger, even if that trigger is not immediately obvious to the owner.

The Difference Between a Warning Growl and a Pleasure Growl

Not all growls carry the same meaning.

A warning growl usually occurs when a dog feels threatened, uncomfortable, fearful, or protective. A pleasure growl occurs when a dog is relaxed and enjoying interaction.

Ashleigh Anderson recommends evaluating the entire body rather than focusing on the sound alone. A relaxed dog with soft eyes and a wagging tail may produce a low rumbling vocalization that sounds alarming but actually reflects enjoyment.

Common Reasons Why Dogs Growl When You Pet Them

Understanding the cause of the growl is the key to determining the correct response. Several common explanations account for most petting-related growling.

Pain or Physical Discomfort

One of the most important causes to rule out is pain.

Owners frequently report:

"My dog started growling at me all of a sudden."

Sudden behavioral changes often have a physical explanation.

Potential causes include:

• Arthritis

• Joint pain

• Hip dysplasia

• Ear infections

• Dental disease

• Skin irritation

• Muscle injuries

• Internal discomfort

A dog that growls when touched in a particular location may be protecting a painful area. Even gentle petting can trigger a defensive reaction if contact causes discomfort.

As of 2026, veterinarians continue to emphasize pain assessment as one of the first steps when evaluating sudden behavioral changes in dogs.

Signs suggesting pain-related growling include:

• Growling only when touched in specific spots

• Difficulty standing up

• Reluctance to jump

• Reduced activity

• Changes in appetite

• Increased irritability

If your dog suddenly begins growling during petting, a veterinary examination should be scheduled before assuming the issue is behavioral.

Fear, Anxiety, or Past Trauma

Fear is another common reason dogs growl during physical contact.

Dogs with histories of neglect, rough handling, inadequate socialization, or traumatic experiences may react defensively when touched.

The growl serves as a protective signal intended to create distance from something the dog perceives as threatening.

Fear-based growling is often accompanied by:

• Lip licking

• Yawning

• Whale eye (showing the whites of the eyes)

• Ears pinned back

• Lowered body posture

• Avoidance behaviors

Owners often say, "My dog growls at me for no reason."

However, the reason is usually emotional rather than physical. The dog may be experiencing anxiety that is not immediately visible.

In our experience with rescue dogs, fear-based growling often decreases significantly when owners respect boundaries and build trust through predictable interactions.

Overstimulation During Petting

Some dogs become overstimulated when petting continues beyond their comfort threshold.

Petting releases positive emotions initially, but excessive stimulation can eventually create discomfort. This phenomenon is sometimes called petting-induced aggression, although it is more accurately described as sensory overload.

A dog may enjoy the first few minutes of petting but become irritated as stimulation accumulates.

Areas many dogs commonly dislike being touched include:

• Top of the head

• Tail base

• Paws

• Rear legs

• Sensitive skin regions

Warning signs before an overstimulation growl include:

• Tail flicking

• Head turning

• Lip licking

• Body stiffening

• Sudden freezing

• Looking away repeatedly

Recognizing these early signals allows owners to stop petting before a growl occurs.

Resource Guarding — Growling When Petted Near Food or Toys

Resource guarding is a normal canine behavior rooted in survival instincts.

Dogs may growl when approached or touched near:

• Food bowls

• Treats

• Bones

• Toys

• Sleeping areas

• Favorite resting places

This explains why some owners ask:

"Why does my dog growl when I pet him while eating?"

The dog is communicating ownership and requesting distance from a valued resource.

The safest approach includes:

• Avoiding direct interference during meals

• Teaching positive associations with human presence

• Working gradually through structured training exercises

• Seeking professional guidance for severe guarding behavior

Punishment often worsens resource guarding because it increases anxiety surrounding the protected item.

Territorial or Protective Behavior at Night

Some dogs growl more frequently at night because their environment feels different after dark. Reduced visibility, unfamiliar sounds, and increased alertness can make dogs more protective of their sleeping space or territory.

This often explains questions such as:

• Why does my dog growl at me at night when I pet him?

• Why is my dog suddenly growling when I approach his bed?

Nighttime growling can occur for several reasons:

• Sleep-startle response

• Territorial behavior around resting areas

• Anxiety caused by unfamiliar sounds

• Reduced visibility leading to uncertainty

• Pain that becomes more noticeable while resting

Dogs awakened suddenly from deep sleep may not immediately recognize who touched them. This temporary confusion can trigger a defensive growl.

Signs of sleep-related growling include:

• The growl occurs immediately after waking

• The dog relaxes once fully alert

• The behavior is limited to sleeping situations

• No aggression is shown during daytime interactions

Owners should avoid startling sleeping dogs and instead use gentle verbal cues before initiating physical contact.

Can a Dog Growl Affectionately?

Yes. Dogs can growl affectionately, and many owners are surprised to learn that not every growl is a warning.

Pleasure growling is a recognized behavior in many dogs. Some dogs produce a low rumbling sound when receiving attention, belly rubs, cuddles, or other enjoyable forms of interaction.

This type of growl often resembles a cat's purr in function. The dog is expressing satisfaction rather than discomfort.

The key distinction is body language. A happy dog communicates relaxation throughout its entire body, while an uncomfortable dog displays tension and avoidance.

Ashleigh Anderson recommends evaluating what the dog does immediately after growling. A dog seeking more interaction is usually communicating something very different from a dog attempting to create distance.

Signs Your Dog's Growl Is a Happy Sound

A pleasure growl is usually accompanied by relaxed and welcoming body language.

Owners often ask:

"Why does my dog growl when I pet him but wag his tail?"

In many cases, the answer is simple: the dog is enjoying the interaction.

Common indicators of an affectionate growl include:

• Loose body posture

• Soft facial expression

• Relaxed ears

• Gentle tail wagging

• Leaning into petting

• Seeking additional contact

• Rolling onto the side

• Exposing the belly voluntarily

• Closing the eyes during petting

A relaxed dog may vocalize while simultaneously displaying every sign of comfort.

In our experience, large breeds are especially prone to producing low rumbling sounds during enjoyable physical contact. These vocalizations can sound intimidating even though they are completely harmless.

Why Does My Dog Growl But Still Wants to Be Pet?

When a dog growls yet actively seeks more contact, the growl is often pleasure-based rather than defensive.

A dog that:

• Moves closer after growling

• Nudges your hand

• Leans against you

• Follows you when petting stops

• Requests additional attention

is usually communicating enjoyment rather than discomfort.

This behavior creates confusion because humans often associate growling exclusively with aggression.

The easiest way to evaluate the meaning is to observe what happens after the growl.

A dog attempting to continue the interaction is generally not trying to end it.

Why Does My Dog Growl When I Cuddle Him?

Cuddling can trigger both positive and negative growling depending on the individual dog.

Some dogs genuinely enjoy prolonged physical closeness and may produce contented grumbles during cuddling sessions.

Others feel restricted when hugged or held tightly.

Dogs are naturally side-by-side social animals rather than face-to-face hugging animals. Because of this, some dogs tolerate cuddling while others find it stressful.

Signs of cuddle-related pleasure growling include:

• Relaxed muscles

• Slow blinking

• Leaning into the owner

• Staying close after cuddling ends

Signs of cuddle-related discomfort include:

• Turning the head away

• Lip licking

• Stiff posture

• Attempts to leave

• Showing the whites of the eyes

Many owners who ask, "Why does my dog grumble when I pet him?" are hearing a softer version of pleasure growling.

Why Does My Dog Groan or Moan When I Pet Him?

Groaning and moaning are different from growling, although owners sometimes confuse the sounds.

Most groans occur because the dog is relaxed, comfortable, or settling into a pleasant position. However, groaning can occasionally indicate pain or physical discomfort.

Understanding the difference helps owners determine whether the sound is normal or requires further investigation.

What Groaning and Moaning Signals in Dogs

Low groans often function much like a human sigh.

A dog may groan when:

• Receiving enjoyable petting

• Settling into a comfortable bed

• Stretching

• Relaxing after exercise

• Enjoying close physical contact

However, groaning can also occur when a dog is experiencing discomfort.

The following table helps distinguish common canine vocalizations.

Owners should pay attention to patterns rather than isolated sounds.

If groaning appears only during comfortable situations, concern is usually unnecessary. If it occurs during standing, walking, or lying down, veterinary evaluation may be appropriate.

Why Do Dogs Moan and Groan Generally?

Dogs groan for many reasons unrelated to petting.

Common causes include:

• Stretching muscles

• Settling into sleep

• Recovering after exercise

• General relaxation

• Age-related joint stiffness

• Breed-specific vocal tendencies

Senior dogs often groan more frequently because aging joints become less flexible.

Breeds known for expressive vocalizations may also groan more than average, even when perfectly healthy.

As dogs age, owners should monitor whether groaning is accompanied by:

• Limping

• Reduced mobility

• Difficulty climbing stairs

• Reluctance to exercise

• Changes in sleeping habits

These signs suggest the groaning may be linked to physical discomfort rather than simple relaxation.

Why Does My Dog Growl When Playing?

Growling during play is extremely common and is usually normal.

Many owners become concerned when they hear their dog growling during tug games, chase games, wrestling, or interactions with other dogs.

In most situations, play growling is simply part of healthy canine communication.

Dogs often use growls to regulate excitement and signal playful intent.

This behavior explains common questions such as:

• Why do dogs growl while playing?

• Do dogs play growl?

• Why does my puppy growl when playing?

The answer is usually yes. Healthy play frequently includes vocalizations.

Play Growling vs. Aggressive Growling — How to Tell the Difference

Body language provides the clearest distinction between playful and aggressive growling.

Play Growling

• Play bow posture

• Bouncy movement

• Loose muscles

• Frequent pauses

• Self-handicapping behavior

• Relaxed facial expression

• Role reversals during play

Aggressive Growling

• Stiff posture

• Hard stare

• Raised hackles

• Escalating intensity

• No play bow

• Forward body weight

• Continued tension after play stops

Healthy play remains balanced and reciprocal.

Aggressive interactions become increasingly tense and one-sided.

Is Play Growling Normal in Puppies?

Yes. Play growling is developmentally normal in puppies.

Puppies learn social skills through interactions involving:

• Growling

• Mouthing

• Wrestling

• Chasing

• Bite inhibition practice

During normal development, puppies use vocalizations to communicate excitement and establish social boundaries.

Most puppy play growling is harmless when accompanied by loose body language and frequent play breaks.

Owners should supervise play while allowing puppies to practice normal communication behaviors.

When growling becomes paired with persistent biting, inability to settle, or escalating intensity, intervention may be needed.

When Play Growling Becomes a Problem

Play growling becomes concerning when excitement escalates into genuine conflict.

Warning signs include:

• Increasing intensity over time

• Lack of responsiveness to interruption

• Snapping

• Resource guarding during play

• One dog repeatedly attempting to escape

• Persistent bullying behavior

Owners can prevent escalation by:

• Scheduling regular play breaks

• Redirecting excessive arousal

• Ending play before frustration develops

• Rewarding calm behavior

• Monitoring interactions closely

The goal is not to eliminate normal play growling but to ensure that play remains safe, balanced, and enjoyable for everyone involved.

Other Physical Responses During Petting — Yawning, Panting, and Snarling

Not every unusual response during petting involves growling. Dogs communicate through a combination of vocalizations, facial expressions, body posture, and physiological reactions. Yawning, panting, and snarling can all provide important clues about how a dog feels during interaction.

Understanding these signals helps owners recognize when a dog is relaxed, overstimulated, anxious, or approaching a behavioral threshold.

Why Do Dogs Yawn When You Pet Them?

Dogs often yawn during petting as a form of communication rather than because they are tired.

Canine behavior experts commonly classify yawning as a calming signal. Popularized through the work of dog trainer and author Turid Rugaas, calming signals are behaviors dogs use to reduce social tension and communicate peaceful intentions.

A dog may yawn during petting because:

• It feels mildly stressed

• It is attempting to self-soothe

• It wants interaction to slow down

• It is becoming overstimulated

• It is transitioning into a relaxed state

Many owners notice that their dog yawns repeatedly while being touched and wonder whether the dog is enjoying the interaction.

The answer depends on context.

Contentment yawning is usually accompanied by:

• Relaxed posture

• Soft eyes

• Calm breathing

• Leaning into contact

Stress-related yawning is often accompanied by:

• Lip licking

• Looking away

• Turning the head

• Body tension

• Repeated yawns in quick succession

In our experience, repeated yawning during petting is often an early signal that a dog would appreciate a break before becoming uncomfortable enough to growl.

Why Does My Dog Pant When I Pet Him?

Panting during petting can have several explanations ranging from excitement to stress.

Dogs regulate body temperature primarily through panting, but panting also occurs during emotional arousal.

Common causes include:

• Excitement

• Anticipation

• Anxiety

• Warm environmental temperatures

• Physical exertion

• Stress

Some dogs become highly excited when receiving attention and begin panting despite being physically inactive.

Signs of excitement-related panting include:

• Loose body language

• Tail wagging

• Seeking additional interaction

• Bright facial expression

Stress-related panting often appears alongside:

• Pacing

• Avoidance behavior

• Dilated pupils

• Ears pinned back

• Restlessness

Owners who ask, "Why does my dog get excited when I pet him?" are often observing normal physiological arousal rather than a behavioral problem.

However, excessive panting without a clear explanation should always be discussed with a veterinarian, especially in older dogs.

Why Does My Dog Snarl When I Pet Him?

Snarling is more serious than growling.

A growl is primarily an auditory warning. A snarl includes visible facial changes such as curled lips and exposed teeth.

Dogs typically snarl when their discomfort threshold has increased beyond a simple warning growl.

Common triggers include:

• Pain

• Fear

• Resource guarding

• Feeling trapped

• Repeatedly ignored warnings

When owners ask, "Why does my dog growl and show teeth when I pet him?" the dog is communicating a strong desire for the interaction to stop immediately.

A snarl should never be ignored.

Important differences include:

A snarling dog is not necessarily aggressive. In many cases, it is attempting to avoid biting by clearly communicating discomfort.

Red Flag Behaviors — When Growling During Petting Signals a Serious Problem

Most growling is normal communication. However, some patterns indicate underlying medical or behavioral concerns that require professional evaluation.

Recognizing red flags early can prevent escalation and improve outcomes for both dogs and owners.

Sudden-Onset Growling — Medical Causes to Rule Out First

A dog that suddenly starts growling during petting should be evaluated medically before behavioral explanations are assumed.

Owners frequently report:

• My dog started growling at me all of a sudden.

• My dog is growling at me for no reason.

• My dog suddenly hates being touched.

In many cases, the dog is experiencing discomfort that has not yet been diagnosed.

Potential medical causes include:

• Arthritis

• Hip dysplasia

• Dental pain

• Ear infections

• Neurological disorders

• Spinal problems

• Cognitive dysfunction syndrome

• Hypothyroidism

• Internal injuries

• Skin conditions

Veterinarians consistently emphasize that sudden behavior changes often have a physical component.

Ashleigh Anderson recommends scheduling a veterinary examination whenever a previously tolerant dog develops unexplained growling behavior.

Dog Growls and Shows Teeth When Petted — What This Means

When a dog growls and shows its teeth during petting, the interaction has moved beyond mild discomfort.

This behavior represents a higher-level warning signal.

The escalation pathway often follows this sequence:

Discomfort → Growl → Snarl → Snap → Bite

The dog's goal is usually to increase distance rather than initiate conflict.

Owners should never:

• Continue petting

• Punish the growl

• Physically restrain the dog

• Force interaction

• Challenge the dog

Instead:

• Stop touching the dog

• Create space

• Assess potential triggers

• Seek veterinary or behavioral guidance if necessary

Ignoring repeated warnings significantly increases bite risk.

Recognizing Red Flag Behavior Patterns

Some growling patterns deserve immediate professional attention.

Red flags include:

• Unpredictable growling

• Growling that escalates rapidly

• Growling accompanied by snapping

• Lunging behavior

• Growling directed at multiple family members

• Growling that appears increasingly frequent

• Redirected aggression toward people or pets

• Growling associated with resource guarding children

Professional support may be appropriate from:

• Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists (CAAB)

• Veterinary behaviorists

• Certified professional dog trainers using evidence-based methods

Early intervention often prevents more serious behavioral complications.

How to Respond When Your Dog Growls at You

The correct response to growling focuses on understanding the cause rather than suppressing the symptom.

Growling provides valuable information about a dog's emotional state and comfort level.

What to Do Immediately When Your Dog Growls

The first step is simple:

Stop the triggering action.

If petting triggered the growl:

• Stop petting immediately

• Give the dog space

• Observe body language

• Identify possible triggers

• Avoid confrontation

Many owners mistakenly believe they must "correct" the growl in the moment.

However, punishment often teaches the dog that warnings are unsafe, which can increase the likelihood of biting without warning in the future.

Veterinary behavior professionals generally agree that growls should be respected and investigated rather than punished.

Should You Growl Back at Your Dog?

No. You should not growl back at your dog.

The idea that humans should growl back to establish dominance is based on outdated training concepts and is not supported by modern behavioral science.

Growling back can:

• Increase anxiety

• Escalate conflict

• Damage trust

• Confuse the dog

• Increase defensive responses

Dogs do not interpret human growling as a meaningful leadership signal.

Instead, they often perceive it as unpredictable or threatening behavior.

A calm and controlled response is always more effective.

How to Correct Growling Behavior Long-Term

Long-term improvement depends on identifying the underlying cause.

Management strategies include:

• Avoiding known triggers

• Respecting boundaries

• Providing predictable routines

• Reducing environmental stress

Training strategies often involve:

• Desensitization

• Counter-conditioning

• Positive reinforcement

• Confidence-building exercises

For example, a dog uncomfortable with handling may gradually learn that touch predicts rewards and positive experiences.

Professional assistance should be considered when:

• Growling is worsening

• Biting has occurred

• Children are involved

• Medical causes have been ruled out

Many owners ask, "Will my dog forgive me if I yell at him?"

Dogs do not hold grudges in the human sense. However, they do form associations. Repeated yelling can damage trust and increase fear, making behavioral problems more likely rather than less likely.

Breed and Age Considerations

Breed traits and life stage can influence why a dog growls during petting.

Although individual personality matters most, some patterns appear more frequently in certain groups of dogs.

Why Does My Chihuahua Growl When I Pet Him?

Chihuahuas are often highly sensitive to handling.

Several factors contribute to this tendency:

• Small body size

• Increased vulnerability

• Strong attachment to owners

• Territorial tendencies

• Fear-based defensive behaviors

Because they are physically small, Chihuahuas may feel threatened more easily than larger breeds.

Many also experience accidental reinforcement of growling. For example, if a Chihuahua growls and is immediately picked up or given attention, the behavior may become more frequent.

The solution is not punishment but consistent, positive handling experiences that build confidence and trust.

Age-Related Growling — Puppies vs. Senior Dogs

Age significantly influences the reasons behind growling.

Puppies

Puppy growling is often related to:

• Play

• Exploration

• Excitement

• Learning social boundaries

• Temporary overstimulation

Most puppy growling is normal developmental behavior.

Senior Dogs

Senior dogs are more likely to growl because of:

• Arthritis

• Reduced mobility

• Hearing loss

• Vision loss

• Cognitive dysfunction

• Chronic pain

As dogs age, tolerance for handling often changes.

In our experience caring for senior dogs, many older pets benefit from gentler petting sessions, orthopedic bedding, and regular veterinary assessments to identify pain before it affects behavior.

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Conclusion

Understanding why does my dog growl when I pet him starts with recognizing that growling is a form of communication, not automatically a sign of aggression. Dogs growl to express many different emotions, including discomfort, fear, overstimulation, resource guarding, excitement, and even contentment.

The meaning of a growl depends on the surrounding context, body language, and circumstances. A relaxed dog that leans into petting may be expressing pleasure, while a stiff dog showing avoidance signals may be communicating discomfort or stress.

The most important takeaway is to never punish a growl. Growling provides valuable information about your dog's emotional state and comfort level. Instead of suppressing the behavior, identify the underlying cause and respond appropriately. When growling appears suddenly, becomes frequent, or escalates to showing teeth, veterinary or behavioral evaluation is recommended.

In short, the answer to why your dog growls when you pet him depends entirely on context. By observing body language and respecting your dog's signals, you can strengthen trust, improve communication, and create safer interactions for everyone involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Why does my dog growl when I pet him but still wants to be pet?

A dog that growls while continuing to seek attention is often displaying pleasure growling. This type of growl is usually accompanied by relaxed body language, tail wagging, leaning into contact, and requesting more petting. If the dog remains engaged and seeks further interaction, the growl is more likely a sign of contentment than a warning.

Q2: What does a low growl from a dog mean when you pet them?

A low growl can mean either contentment or mild discomfort. The determining factor is body language. A relaxed dog with soft eyes and loose posture is often expressing enjoyment, while a dog with a stiff body, hard stare, or avoidance signals may be issuing a warning. Always evaluate the entire situation rather than focusing on the sound alone.

Q3: Why did my dog suddenly start growling at me for no reason?

Sudden-onset growling is frequently linked to pain, illness, or physical discomfort. Conditions such as arthritis, dental disease, ear infections, neurological disorders, and joint problems can cause previously friendly dogs to become sensitive to touch. Veterinary evaluation should be the first step whenever growling appears unexpectedly.

Q4: Is it okay to keep petting a dog that growls?

No. A growl is a communication signal that indicates the dog is experiencing some level of emotional or physical response. Continuing to pet a growling dog ignores that signal and may increase the risk of escalation. The safest response is to stop petting, give the dog space, and assess the situation before interacting again.

Q5: Why does my dog growl and moan at the same time when I pet him?

Dogs sometimes combine low growls, grumbles, and moans when they are deeply relaxed. If the dog appears comfortable, seeks additional contact, and shows relaxed body language, these sounds are often pleasure-related vocalizations. However, if the sounds occur alongside signs of pain or discomfort, veterinary assessment may be necessary.

Q6: How do I know if my dog's growl during play is normal?

Normal play growling is typically accompanied by loose body language, play bows, bouncy movement, role reversals, and frequent pauses in play. The growling stops when the play ends. Aggressive growling is more likely to involve stiffness, hard staring, escalating intensity, and a lack of playful behaviors.

Q7: Why does my dog growl when I pet him while he's eating?

This behavior is commonly caused by resource guarding. Dogs instinctively protect valuable resources such as food, treats, toys, or resting spaces. The growl is a warning signal intended to create distance. Resource guarding should be addressed through positive training and management strategies rather than punishment, which can increase anxiety and worsen the behavior.