Behavior problems directly affect the welfare of dogs. The existence of behavior problems is a main factor in the euthanasia and relinquishment of animals to shelters. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of behavioral problems, as well as identify rewards and punishments used by the owners for training and obedience in domestic dogs in Iran. We examined dogs referred to Tehran pet hospital and Alborz pet hospital. Data was obtained from 134 questionnaires successfully completed by the owners. The pet owners were asked about presence or absence of 12 behavioral problems in their pets and also about rewards, punishments and commands they used to treat their dogs. We mentioned 12 common behavior problems, 5 commands, 6 types of rewards and 8 types of punishment. The majority of respondents (128, 95.5%) stated that their dogs exhibited at least one behavior problem. The most common behavioral problem was licking objects (78, 58.2%). The most common commands used by the owners for training were come on, sit down and stay. The most common rewards that the owners used were hugging, kissing and playing with the dogs. The main types of punishment included noise punishment, not allowing the dog to be in the owner›s room and physical punishment. The evaluation of the prevalence of behavior problems and obedience in domestic dogs, as well as rewards and punishments used may be helpful to advise owners and improve dog training in small animal practice.

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