Yes, very easily! In fact, most people do reinforce attention seeking behaviours even if they do not realise it. For example, when a dog barks at you as they may want something, you look immediately at them, so therefore the behaviour of barking was reinforced as it got your attention. Simply even telling your dog to stop or pushing them away can still be reinforcing for the dog as it got your attention. If you are unsure who or what is reinforcing the behaviour, set up a camera and watch everyone’s actions. Where or what does your dog gain reinforcement from?
For more articles on Attention Seeking Behaviour in Dogs click here.