Working dogs in Canada used to help their human partners by warning of approaching predators or ice weaknesses.
Now a dog’s main occupation is the indoor family pet.
Fifty years ago, estimates suggest about three million dogs shared Canadian homes; today, nearly six million do. Meanwhile, we have moved into cities in unprecedented numbers.
A dog’s life now takes place in houses and apartments, in parks, and on sidewalks thronged with people, bikes and other dogs.
Yet as we bring dogs ever-more into our family spaces we tend to forget that dogs are, well, dogs.
Our tolerance for natural canine behaviour is shrinking.
We frown on barking. We dislike dog-dog disagreements and detest biting with a passion.
It is likely that our dog’s manners are not worsening; it is more likely that our expectations for dog behaviour are tightening as more and more former working dog breeds are living as pets.
It is up to us to provide them with the stimulation and exercise they need. Want a Weimaraner? Be prepared to provide at least an hour’s active, off-leash exercise daily.
Prefer a paws-on-the-floor pooch? Training is needed to ensure your pup’s etiquette.
A combination of puzzle toys in the house, fulfilling exercise and fun training games can help ensure a social and mannerly mutt.
Submitted by Helen Prinold, Dog Friendship Inc.
