Unlocking the Secrets of What Our Dogs Truly Need: A San Diego Perspective
You know that warm feeling when you glance at your furry friend and feel like the luckiest dog parent in San Diego? That undeniable bond you share with your four-legged companion is something truly special. But ever wondered what your dog really needs from you? Well, just like the diverse breeds of our beloved pets, their needs can vary widely.
We often receive calls from dog owners seeking guidance, much like a recent call we got from a concerned owner. His dog was a free spirit, chasing cars and wandering far from home, even making uninvited visits to other homes. The owner had a valid concern—keeping the dog safe and out of harm's way was top priority. And to achieve that, he knew his dog needed to learn. After all, the children adored their four-legged friend, and the dog's safety mattered.
Dogs, as we all know, come in an array of temperaments and traits. It's not just about different breeds; individual dogs exhibit unique personalities. Some are bundles of energy, others laid-back and easygoing. While some may curl up for a snuggle, others prefer a little "me-time." And yes, there are the incredibly bright ones and, well, the ones who might not win a Nobel Prize. The differences are astounding.
Dogs are diverse in their own way. Some dogs naturally stay close to home, even without fences. That's right, and it may surprise you to learn that there are breeds known for their wanderlust tendencies, which if you have one are usually notorious escape artists.
It would be fantastic if our dogs could share their thoughts and tell us precisely why they do what they do. But alas, dogs can't talk, and we're left to make educated guesses about their behaviors. When it comes to training and understanding dog behaviors, we rely on well-established concepts from fields like evolutionary psychology and ethology, as well as anecdotal evidence from experienced trainers.
Our recent caller pointed out that some farm dogs do stay home, and he was correct. Some dogs are inherently inclined to stay close. But are these dogs safer than the wanderers? Statistically, yes. Dogs that stay close to home are less likely to encounter traffic dangers. However, it's crucial to remember that even the most home-oriented dogs occasionally get curious and venture out, even if just briefly. It's in their nature to follow their senses and explore their surroundings.
The key here is to resist the temptation to moralize about our dogs' behaviors. Dogs don't share our human morals and values, and expecting them to do so can lead to frustration and misunderstanding. Our San Diego dog owners are well aware that our canine companions are like babies in some ways. "Should" and "ought to" are words that may sound reasonable to us, but they don't work with dogs any more than they would with a baby.
In both cases, it's about understanding that dogs aren't small, furry humans. Dogs have their own unique needs, instincts, and motivations, and it's our job as responsible pet parents to provide the right guidance, training, and safe environments. So let's embrace the diversity of our furry friends in San Diego and continue to learn, grow, and understand their needs as we embark on this incredible journey together.
Happy Dog Training!
