Dogs & Love
There is no question that love is a wonderful thing to give our dogs, and giving it is great therapy for us humans as well. But dogs, need more than love from us. In order to be healthy and happy, they also need structure, guidance and protection, as well as love.
Isn’t love alone enough?
We all love to spoil our dogs, but too much freedom, love at inappropriate times and a lack of structure can not only reinforce inappropriate behavior, it can make your dog feel insecure and anxious. For example, you might be walking down your neighborhood street when your dog sees an unfamiliar dog. She barks and pulls forward toward that dog. Protect her, let her know that you're on top of the situation, distract with treats or a happy voice. This is guidance and providing structure and protection.
A good bond with your dog along with guidance lets your dog know that all is well and that you are in control, in a positive way. This allows your dog to relax so that she can enjoy life and not worry about the next scary dog or person to approach, as an example.
Isn’t love alone enough?
We all love to spoil our dogs, but too much freedom, love at inappropriate times and a lack of structure can not only reinforce inappropriate behavior, it can make your dog feel insecure and anxious. For example, you might be walking down your neighborhood street when your dog sees an unfamiliar dog. She barks and pulls forward toward that dog. Protect her, let her know that you're on top of the situation, distract with treats or a happy voice. This is guidance and providing structure and protection.
A good bond with your dog along with guidance lets your dog know that all is well and that you are in control, in a positive way. This allows your dog to relax so that she can enjoy life and not worry about the next scary dog or person to approach, as an example.
Do You Need to Use Physical Force?
No! The opposite. Physical force tends to break the bond with your dog and lower trust, greatly. Setting your dog up for success and putting her in situations where she can win and then validating those behaviors are most successful and bond building for you and your dog.
Reward calm behavior
A good example here is if you have a dog that tends to be hyperactive, reward behavior that's calm. Use a calming voice while praising. Set up the environment where it's not too stimulating. Find chew toys that help to work out some of that energy.
Help your dog to practice staying calm in different situations.
The gift of guidance and structure...and love.
Remember, use your treats and things that your dog likes to help her be willing to work with you in a partnership. Use your thinking, not force. Also, work with the dog you have, not the dog you think she should be. Set up situations to accentuate all the behaviors that are appropriate for you and her. It's really about partnership. She will relax and feel secure knowing that you are there for guidance and even protection. Your relationship with your dog will improve and trust will develop, strengthening your bond all at the same time.
Marthina McClay, CPDT-KA
| loveleadership.pdf |