Have you ever thought about the decisions your furry friend makes on a daily basis? While we choose between watching a movie or getting some sleep, hitting the gym or going shopping, our dogs rely on us to make decisions for them - what to eat, where to sleep, when to go out, and who to play with. This lack of autonomy can sometimes leave them feeling unhappy. By offering our dogs more choices, we can improve their well-being and often see better behavior as a result.
Why is Choice Important for Dogs?
Animal behaviorist once addressed that very few dogs are inherently prepared for a life as a "pet dog." Their autonomy and instincts are often overlooked, leading to behaviors like terriers digging or herding dogs nipping at children's heels, which are sometimes labeled as "behavior issues." Dogs face a human-centric world filled with challenges, and it is our responsibility as pet owners to help them by providing more choices to support our furry companions.
How to Empower Your Dog with Choices
1. Allow them to be excited and possibly destroy their own things.
2. Let them enjoy the outdoors in a fenced area without constant supervision.
3. Take them on a 5-meter leash for a hike in a secluded forest, away from human influence, giving them time to connect with their true selves.
4. Let your dog lead the way on walks, following their nose.
5. Provide multiple sleeping spots instead of just a crate.
6. Let them choose their toys for the day.
7. Allow them to decide if they want to be petted, and if they walk away, respect their choice.
8. Not all dogs are social butterflies, so instead of forcing them to interact with guests, let them relax quietly under the table.
9. Listen to your dog when encountering strangers or unfamiliar dogs, and choose a different path if needed.
10. If there are no mandatory training sessions, let your dog have a day off.
Many dogs exhibit undesirable behaviors due to a lack of choice or control. Pay attention to your dog's body language, give them the freedom to opt-out if they don't want to do something, and never ignore their attempts to communicate with you. By providing opportunities and skills for making better choices, we can empower our dogs to lead happier and more fulfilling lives.
