Pack animals, often a term used when speaking about a group of animals. It is assigned to a group of animals that live together for survival. Dogs thrive in packs, the fact that we have isolated them from their species means we have to fulfill that innate need to be apart. Don't be fooled, dogs still yearn to be in their natural environment, however happy they seem. They simply decide to put up with us. As the now new established pack, you and your dog, the human needs to establish themselves as the pack leader. The alpha. The alpha in a pack provides, shelter, safety, and resources. So as the human you must do the same in the form of food, feeding your pup. Providing shelter where the dog can relax and feel protected enough to relax and enjoy their surroundings. Safety is provided when the dog trusts that you as their owner will protect them. This does not discount the times where the dog will protect its "family." This refers to the everyday ongoings. As the Alpha, you have established yourself with consistency, creating patterns of behaviors that the dog recognizes as an effort to be the leader.
Dogs do tend to survive and thrive in a setting with at least another dog around. It is the natural tendency to want to have a counterpart. Dogs should not live as a sole dog in a home. There is absolutely no need to get as crazy as we did, with our pack of 18! However, bringing another four-legged fur baby in the home brings the dog back to its roots.
Teaching manners to the dog helps the dog learn how to behave properly. Ultimately, they want you to be happy with them. Using positive reinforcement will encourage your dog to do as they are asked and want to. This will foster a mutual respect between you and your dog which helps build the bond that will last their lifetime. Dogs needs are not complicated at all. Setting boundaries with rules and expectations, providing the basic necessities, and providing companionship is about all it takes to earn the love of a dog.
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