Dog psychology
Survival is intrinsic to all living things. Nearly all mammals live in small groups of the same species, working together to survive. As a mammal with a strong survival instinct the dog is a pack animal with an ingrained pack mentality. In the wild a pack of dogs is controlled and led by a strong, calm, assertive pack leader, known as the alpha dog, to ensure the pack’s survival.
As part of Mother Nature it is inbuilt in your dog to expect order in his life. He expects to work for his food and water, and to follow the rules and guidelines of an orderly pack, controlled by a trusted pack leader. Therefore, when your dog comes to live with you he is naturally looking for a calm assertive leader. When these qualities are not demonstrated he can very quickly assume the role of pack leader and display unwanted and/or dominant behaviour. If not addressed and dealt with this dominant behaviour can lead to aggression.
Dog’s are not born fighters, or unstable. It is only humans who create these unwanted behaviours in them. A dog’s world is very simple – you’re either balanced or unbalanced, a leader or a follower. The beauty of dogs is that they live in the moment. They don’t think back to days gone by, or worry about the future. This is why by learning dog psychology and consistently and patiently using the techniques taught by Doggie Decorum, you will see your dog move on from his unwanted, unbalanced behaviour.
Thank you for respecting your dog enough to want to learn his language, and make life with him as enjoyable as it can be.
