How To Love A Dog
Dogs are Pack Animals!
When we bring a dog into our home to be a companion and protector, we often
do not understand how the dog sees the world. Dogs, by nature, are pack
animals. They see their people family as their new "pack".
All packs, to them, must have a leader, and a structure of authority (NOT
dominance), in order for them to understand what is expected of them. They
will happily and willingly follow the right 'leader'. This is what they
live for. They will fit into the pack in a way they see as 'their
job'. If there is no obvious leader in their family, they will take that
job on themselves. Since this is not really their natural 'place' in the
pack, it is a very scary and confusing job for them. They may even become aggressive
and overly protective out of insecurity. All the family members
must take their 'place' in the pack for your dog to understand.
If a dog is kept outside, tied up, or not allowed to interact with their
'pack', they often become frustrated and confused. They may bark, dig,
whine or develop other bad habits. Remember, in nature, being 'banished'
from the pack is the worst thing that can happen to them.
In order to be a strong, loving leader in their 'pack', we have to to
communicate in a way they understand. When a dog misbehaves, it is
not because they are 'bad', it is because they do not yet understand what is
expected of them. Usually, this is because WE do not understand what is
expected of us.
How to Love A Dog
NEVER . . .
Never . . yell at your dog. You must be a calm, confidant
pack leader, and when you yell, they see you as out of control.
Correct their behavior quietly, but firmly. You may need to repeat the
correction a few times, but your dog will quickly understand what is
expected. They want to please you.
Never . . physically threaten your dog. If you raise your hand
or any object to threaten them, again, you are out of control in their eyes.
They will be frightened, and immediately forget what they may have done.
Calm, firm, consistent correction is the only way they can understand.
Never . . ignore your dog . Remember, they need to be part of
the pack. If you come home from work, feed the dog, then put him outside,
he will feel "banished" and bored. A few minutes each day of
playing ball, a walk, practicing a new trick, just a little undivided attention,
will make him happy to fit into your busy schedule.
What Your Dog Needs
Exercise: Daily (or frequent) walks or exercise are critical to a
happy dog. A 15-30 minute brisk walk (or run), longer if possible, will give him the exercise
he needs. Young dogs especially need to burn off energy before they can
focus on learning. It also gets him out of the house, keeps him from
getting board, and lets him learn how to act in other environments.
Training: After the exercise, spend a few minutes on training.
Good leash training is important to your dog's safety, or if he's already good
on a leash, work on a something new. This training is your dog's
'work', and is needed for him to feel confident.
Always have your dog walk to your side or behind you, remember YOU must be
the "pack leader". Do not let him pull you, and do not pull
back. When leash training your dog, place the lead high on the neck just
behind the ears (not down at the base). Keep the leash short, but not
tight, keeping his head up. Have him sit while you close the door to
leave. Walk confidently and looking forward, not down at him. When
he strays, immediately give a quick tug, then loosen the leash. After
several tugs, he will understand what you want, and that you are the
leader. No treats, bribes or dragging necessary.
Play Time and Affection: Now it's time for fun. Your dog
has burnt off excess energy on his walk, done his work, and is now ready for his
reward. Food treats are less effective than some fun time with his
"pack leader". Play ball, Frisbee, or just pet and praise him
for the good job he's done. A little cuddle time will let him know he's
loved. Then let him hang out with you!
Remember, exercise first to burn off energy so he can focus. Training
second, he needs to have a job to do. Then the reward, love and affection.
This may all sound like it takes too much time. But in 30-60 minutes a
day, you can make the world a wonderful place for your dog. If it's not
possible daily, then try for a few times a week on a regular schedule. The
most important thing for your dog is that he understands what is expected of
him, and that he is included in the pack. Once he understands, he will
follow your lead unconditionally, and become the loyal, loving member of your 'pack' that he was meant to be.
