Who counts - you or the dog? Read when children and now dogs are subtly pressured into following the paths that their parents choose for them, it will most likely play havoc on their natural process of maturation. It becomes impossible for them to develop their own distinct and unique identities, and instead of becoming self-sufficient they become dependent and unable to decide for themselves what is best and what they would really like to do. This unfortunately feeds into some peoples needs. One would think okay we all know those that do this through their children but dogs? Yes, there is a growing trend to gain self esteem through the accomplishments of their dogs even at the cost of taking the time to truly explore what makes them happy. We have over trained dogs be it in agility, conformation - all the sports. We convince ourselves that the dog loves it but we have all seen the dogs that dont. Still, they are winning but at what cost? They say the cost is the natural dogs spirit. Even in conformation the most well behaved dog vs. the spirited dog is often rewarded. Are we doing this for the dog or are you doing it to build our own self esteem? If it is the latter we should explore why we feel so inclined. We all need to feel like we have accomplished something and it is nice to get recognized when we do. But when we do things that are not fully exploring what the dog wants and/or we do everything to maintain that win at the cost of the dog or ourselves, then who are we really doing it for? Plus who are we fooling? Maybe Joan Weston you could write an article on this for Nathans Havanese Breed Magazine. I recently saw a dog that was so over trained that it took him days to allow the play back in and would only do so with permission given. The owner was proud of his accomplishments and used him to brag but he didnt play. Those of us with coated breeds know the dog that isnt allowed to play often has a stunning coat where one that has a spirit and is allowed to play does not. Where do we draw the line? Our dogs have such short lives and shouldnt they all be days filled with enjoyment?
Posted on: Tue, 30 Dec 2014 14:23:31 +0000
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