Understanding Canine Behavior: A Guide to Respecting Our Dogs
I am deeply saddened by the recent tragic incident in Malton, where a 10-year-old girl lost her life after being mauled by the family pet. My heart goes out to her family and loved ones during this unimaginably difficult time. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of understanding and respecting our canine companions for who they are, not who we might want them to be.
it’s super tempting to ‘baby’ our dogs and tell ourselves that they understand human concepts and constructs but they don’t and as cute as it may seem, it’s really not harmless.
I know that we all believe that our dog is the best dog to ever exist, and nobody is wrong about that, though we must remember every dog has the capacity to act like, well, a dog.
The Perils of Anthropomorphism:
Anthropomorphism, or the attribution of human characteristics to non-human entities, can be a significant barrier to truly understanding our dogs. When we view their behaviors through a human lens, we risk misinterpreting their actions and motivations. This can lead to frustration, confusion, and even dangerous situations.
Observing behaviours objectively is the only way to truly understand your dog.
Without human translations and labels getting in the way, the relationship between you and your dog will evolve.
For example, it’s remarkable how few people know that a dog’s first response to discomfort is to walk away, which is also their gentlest response. If they are pulled back or can’t walk away then they will express their discomfort by using more expressive actions which can include growling and biting.
So when you’re dog trots away from something it doesn’t quite vibe with, they’re almost certainly not “throwing a strop” or “being defiant” and if you want your dog to trust you it’s best to let them wander off.
Another alarming assumption is that pulling on a leash demonstrates that a dog is "being stubborn" or "trying to dominate," but dogs are not pack animals in the same way wolves are. They are social creatures, but their social structures are more fluid and less hierarchical. Pulling on the leash is often simply a sign of excitement or a desire to explore.
Context matters, so remember to consider breed, age, health, and past experiences, as you interpret behaviour.
The breed has not been disclosed of the dog that took the little girls life in Malton, which isn’t important because there’s real value in calibrating all of our canine relationships.
Dogs are not humans: They experience the world differently and have their own unique ways of communicating.
Observe, don't assume: Pay attention to your dog's body language and behavior without jumping to conclusions.
Consider their perspective: Try to understand their motivations and needs.
Seek professional help: If you're struggling to understand your dog's behavior, consult a qualified dog trainer or behaviorist.
Remember, safety first: Always prioritise the safety of both your dog and the people around them.
By understanding and respecting our dogs for who they are, we can build stronger, safer relationships with them. Let's honor the memory of the young girl who lost her life by committing to learn more about our canine companions and promoting responsible dog ownership
