What Makes A Dog A Dog?

Regardless of a dog's breed, temperament or size, all dogs are derived from the wolf. Thus, understanding the wolf's behaviour, motivators and communication system have helped us to understand dogs.

As with their wolf ancestors, dogs need order and leadership. They are pack animals, so you must be the "pack leader." Your pet needs to know from the start that you are boss, which helps them to understand what you expect of them.

Here are a few fundamentals to help you understand a dog's nature, and so assist in training:

1. A dog is a dog. They do not communicate the way people do.
2. All dogs think in terms of the pack. They instinctively know that living with others, under the leadership of a dominant pack member, enhances their chances for survival. When you exhibit a leader's strong and consistent characteristics, your dog accepts you as the pack leader and thus respects and obeys you.
3. Dogs don't understand English (or any other human language). In addition to barking and growling, dogs rely heavily on body language. Learning to read your dog's body language is key to communicating effectively with them.
4. Dogs are neither spiteful nor deliberately naughty. A dog misbehaves or disobeys because: They do not understand what you want; they do not consider you their leader; or they are suffering from some kind of stress or fear.
5. Aggression is instinctual in every breed. Whether Chihuahua or German Shepherd, a dog's breed has nothing to do with aggression. Aggression is instinctual and caused most often by fear of something they cannot understand or does not recognise as normal. A frightened dog will either take flight or fight.
6. Correct your dog on the spot. Because dogs learn from association, a correction is effective only if it is issued at the precise moment the dog is either contemplating or actually doing something wrong.

Bark Busters Home Dog Training provides a solution to your dog's behavioural problems. Any dog, any age, any issue. Backed by our unique support guarantee. We come to your home and help you with all of the issues on your wish list for your dog. We help you understand not only why your dog is behaving the way they are, but we teach you how to communicate with your dog in a way that they understand. Contact your local Bark Busters therapist to see how they can help.

Recent Articles