It could be making things worse
A canine expert has issued a warning about a widespread practice many pet owners engage in when reuniting with their dogs following time apart. Following a lengthy shift at the office or a trip away from home, most dog owners are keen to lavish their four-legged companions with cuddles and kisses.
It’s touching to witness your beloved pooch leap about with delight as you step through the front door. However, Paws Crossed Shelter trainer Scott Salant, working alongside TrustedHousesitters, cautions that this heartfelt demonstration of affection might accidentally promote problematic conduct.
Canines rapidly pick up cues from their human companions’ responses, so if they detect happiness when they bound upwards, they’re prone to repeat this action in various circumstances.
Speaking last year, Scott explained: “This can make the pet get too excited, leading to behaviours like the dog jumping up. It could also make pets more anxious about their owners leaving them alone.”
Despite the widespread appeal of social media clips featuring delighted reunions between hounds and their families, it may be sensible to maintain a calm approach initially before showering your dog with fuss.
Scott additionally recommended that a weary dog responds better to instruction, as they can concentrate more effectively than those brimming with vigour but lacking physical activity.
He noted: “A dog that hasn’t had any exercise is more difficult to train as the focus may not be there. Burning off some of the energy before starting a training session is a good idea.”
Scott further advised that it’s crucial to socialise your pets throughout their lives, not just during their puppy years, as phobias can develop at any stage.
“The more stimuli we expose our pets to, the better able they are to cope with new stressors,” he explained.
In a similar vein, he debunked the common misconception that old dogs can’t learn new tricks, stating: “No matter the age, our dogs are always learning.
And when it comes to older dogs, patience is key(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
“Sometimes a little more patience is needed as an older dog may have lots of practice at doing the opposite behaviour than what you are asking of them, but with a little time and effort, they will learn what you want them to do!”
We recently reported how the dog a new pet parent takes home can actually reveal a lot about their personality. Ranging from values, to lifestyle, these factors can play a role in choosing a pet pooch.
This can often be explained as a coincidence, but a recent study which examined over 3,000 pup purchases, said their dog’s personality was “very similar” to their own.
Of course when it comes to picking a dog to love forever, there are no shortage of options, and some are said to suit certain lifestyles more than others.
For instance, dogs like the Dachshund are said to be easy-going and can be a welcome for busy pet owners.
Or these lazy breeds may be more ideal for owners who prefer to spend time lounging with their pet more than being super active.
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