Doggie Urban Myths
Here are some of the common misconception's and myths about the dog that can blind us to dogs simply being dogs:
- My dog is stubborn/stupid
Your dog is probably neither. More likely what he is doing is more fun and enjoyable than what you're suggesting.
- My dog looks guilty when he has done something wrong
Anthropomorphic non-sense. Your dog is probably checking out your state to see if he is going to be in trouble or not. Remember when you arrive to find your possessions chewed your dog is not relating your upset to that past event but to your arrival right now and what he is doing in the moment, such as sitting, greeting you etc. So guess what? your dog continues to chew but doesn't greet you anymore. Smart dog.
- Tug of war games make dogs dominant/aggressive
No evidence for this whatsoever. In fact you are more likely to bond with your dog playing this sort of game. Think of it not as competition but as co-operation and the toy as prey. Naturally rules need to be applied just as in most activities.
- Dogs need to be wrestled to the ground to prevent 'dominance'
Oh dear. Sure fired way of developing a fear based aggression this one. Maybe not the first time or the second but there's a bite coming your way soon...
Watch out for the pack merchants, because yet again there is no real scientific evidence that domestic dogs pack, want to pack or are even slightly interested in packing. In actuality more evidence of a human need, not a doggy one.
- Aversive' s (pain/punishment) gives you a well trained dog.
No. They give you an abused dog, are morally bankrupt and an indication of lack of animal psychological understanding. Used frequently during the Spanish Inquisition I believe.
- Your dog just wants to please you
How ego-centric is that? Your dog is a social animal but has his own interests at heart. Quite rightly too.
Get comfortable with your dogs dogginess!
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