The Truth About Dogs, A Cat's Perspective
Continued
The bold dog's drive is best channeled in specialty training, like agility, field trials, herding, tracking and protection.
Without a special job to focus on, they can get into trouble. They can be aggressive. They do not make easy pets for most of us.
Shy dogs may need to be taught to enjoy social interaction.
McKeever cringed when he was hugged. He looked like he was being beaten when he did obedience. He was very dutiful as long as I was willing to do all the thinking. He needed other dogs around from which he could take his social cues. When fearful, he would consider biting.
The puppy that does not stand out from the crowd makes the perfect pet.
MacGuffin is very flexible. He will play top or bottom. He is eager to please. He is very tolerable. He does not try to outsmart me. He temperament tested a 3--right in the middle.
Dogs bond with their group through work or play.
Unlike cats, dogs are team players. They want instructions. They want a job. They want their role defined.
Peace and happiness for a dog comes from knowing its place in the group.
Dogs do not like to be equal. Morse and Robbie in the middle feel equal, so they have to fight it out. MacGuffin, on the right is at peace as head dog. Josh, on the left, is happy on the bottom.
Siding with the winner promotes peace, which is our goal.
Greet and feed the dogs in order of rank. Let the higher ranked dog go first. Have the top dog sit and the other lie dog. Always put yourself in the role of leader.
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