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 Both the desire to be a part of a pack and the prey drive are still very strong,
functioning instincts of today's domestic dog. Dogs have been called "Man's Best Friend," not because Man is so good to the dog, but because the dog's pack instincts, like their wolf cousins,
have a strong desire to be a part of a highly organized social structure. It is this desire to fit in that aids them in accepting a human family and their lifestyle.
The dog will make every attempt to please you, his pack leader, his master, just so that he may be allowed to remain within your pack. Although some of his actions are described as annoying
behavior, it is his way of trying to be a part of the pack, while maintaining his individuality. Dogs are creatures of habit or repetitive conditioning. They will, like most people, test you on
occasion to determine whether you are a just leader. Training establishes that leadership position and helps the dog to learn the rules that are to be followed. Knowing the rules enables them to
function without the recourse of discipline, and once taught, they will attempt to follow them to the best of their ability. If you do not establish yourself as a fair leader and set specific rules
for the dog, then you have indicated to him that you are not worthy of leading the pack, and he will attempt to assume that position.
You have to take the time to understand the makeup of that dog.
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Whether your dog is a pedigree or mixed breed, you must take time to understand his makeup. Knowing his traits, temperament, activity level, drive, and inner workings, will give you an advantage
in training your dog.
Dogs with a pedigree are much easier to understand because they have been bred for certain traits and activities. There is much written about each of the known breeds, and you should study the
information that is available for that particular breed. Learn what has been programmed into him through selective breeding.
Dogs of mixed breeds, sometime present a little more difficulty in understanding, due to the make up of the various breeds that were involved in producing that dog. You should attempt to determine
which breed and traits are more dominant, and then learn those breeds and traits so that you have an understanding of what should be expected.
Knowing the purpose and characteristics of the dog(s) that make up your particular choice will help you to understand the actions of the dog. You must decide if you will be compatible with a dog
whose genetic influences make up the breed's natural characteristics, and that you have the time and patience to mold him to your lifestyle.
For example, the Labrador Retriever was developed to retrieve wounded or dead prey that fell into water. This does not mean that they will not retrieve in other areas, but this was the desire of
man, and the development took place. If you are looking for a family pet that will just lie around the back door, not swim in the fishpond or swimming pool, dig up the yard, or have enough energy to
run for hours, then the Labrador Retriever is not a good choice for you.
You should understand the dog's natural inherited traits and not just his individual personality or appearance. A dog's personality can vary as much as his human counterpart, but it is the genetic
influences that drive the dog for his intended purpose.
All of these things must be considered when choosing a dog, especially if you wish to live with him in harmony. He will attempt to please you, but you must show him what is expected of him in
order to achieve his respect.
If you have not yet chosen a dog, try our Breed Selector to see which breeds best suits your lifestyle, or discover if you have the right dog for you.
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