The influence of dog breed and socialization
Choosing a pet, especially a dog, depends largely on the breed and socialization of the dog.
Indeed, some dog breeds are more independent and others are closer to their owners. It's therefore essential to consider these factors when adopting a dog. In this article, we'll look at the different factors to consider when choosing the ideal dog breed for you, as well as how a dog chooses its owner .
Socialization from an early age
It's essential to begin socializing a dog from a young age. This will help him adapt easily to his environment and feel comfortable around other animals and humans. A well-socialized dog will be less likely to develop unwanted or aggressive behaviors.
To do this, it is recommended to gradually expose him to different types of stimuli, such as walks, meetings with other dogs as well as training and education sessions.
The Most Independent Dog Breeds
Some dog breeds are known for being more independent than others. These breeds include the Siberian Husky, the Shiba Inu, and the Akita Inu. These dogs tend to be more distant with their owners and prefer to explore their surroundings rather than constantly seeking attention and petting.
It is therefore important to respect their need for independence and educate them accordingly, offering them intellectual challenges and getting them used to being alone for short periods from a young age. To do this, you can offer them educational toys such as an automatic ball launcher , for example.
Dog breeds that are closer to their owners
Conversely, some dog breeds are known for being very close to their owners and for their attachment to them. These breeds include the Labrador Retriever, the Golden Retriever, the Border Collie, and the Poodle. These dogs generally have a strong need for interaction and mental stimulation between the dog and its owner .
It is therefore essential to provide them with an environment rich in activities and challenges, as well as to spend quality time with them, playing, petting them and training them regularly. Rewards, such as treats and toys, can also be used to strengthen their bond with their owner and encourage them to learn new behaviors. For this, you will find many toys and accessories in our online store, such as dog balls , rope toys or even soft toys for dogs .
The criteria for choosing a dog
In the relationship between a dog and its owner, it's essential to consider several factors to ensure a harmonious coexistence. Here are some criteria that can influence how a dog chooses its owner.
The character of the master
The owner's temperament plays a crucial role in dog adoption. Dogs are often attracted to people with similar characteristics. For example, a calm and composed dog will be more comfortable with an owner who has a calm personality, while an energetic and playful dog will prefer a dynamic and active owner.
Dog training and education are also essential to establish a healthy and strong relationship between dog and owner.
The master's way of life
The owner's lifestyle is another important factor in choosing a dog. A dog must be able to adapt to its owner's daily routines and activities, particularly regarding walks, feeding, and time spent together. Dogs have specific needs depending on their breed and size, and it is essential to choose a dog that suits your lifestyle.
For example, a sporty and active owner will be happy with a dog that likes to run and play outside, while a sedentary owner will prefer a dog that is happy with short walks and relaxing moments at home. It is therefore very important to take this into account before adopting a dog, as much for the well-being of the dog as that of the owner. If you are sporty and would like to run with your dog, then don't miss our canicross accessories and our personalized dog collars in case of loss.
If you have a hyperactive dog , check out our dedicated article on this topic which will help you calm your dog and channel his energy.
The physical criteria of the master
Finally, the owner's physical characteristics can also influence the choice of a dog. Dogs can be sensitive to their owner's appearance, particularly with regard to size, gender, and age.
For example, a small dog may feel more secure with a smaller owner, while a larger dog may be more comfortable with a larger owner. Similarly, some dogs may be more receptive to an owner of the opposite sex or the same age as them, depending on their socialization and previous experience with humans and other animals.
The importance of education and training
Learning to live in harmony with your pet is essential for everyone's well-being. Therefore, educating and training your four-legged friend is essential for establishing a healthy and balanced relationship.
By properly training your canine friend from a young age, you give him the best chance of growing up sociable, respectful and happy.
Basic commands to teach your dog
For successful training, it is important to start by teaching your dog basic commands such as "sit," "down," "heel," and "recall."
These basic commands will help your dog understand what you expect of him and respond appropriately to your requests. Don't forget to reward your dog with treats or petting when he obeys, to reinforce his learning and motivation. A treat ball, for example, will be a perfect reward for your pet.
Check out our articles on dog training to teach your dog the "sit" command or how to teach your dog the "down" command for more information.
Training techniques to avoid
For effective and respectful training of your pet, avoid techniques based on dominance and fear, such as choke collars or physical punishment.
Instead, opt for positive and gentle training methods, such as positive reinforcement and clicker training, which encourage your dog to learn through fun and cooperation. You'll find a wide range of training accessories in our store, such as clickers and ultrasonic whistles for dogs , as well as treat pouches .
The benefits of obedience for the dog and its owner
An obedient dog is a happy and secure dog. With proper training, your pet will be able to behave properly in all circumstances, whether on walks, around other animals, or during visits to the vet.
Additionally, a well-trained dog will be easier to manage and integrate into your daily life, which will strengthen your bond and mutual happiness.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about: How does a dog choose its owner?
Does a dog suffer from a change of owner?
Yes, changing owners can be a stressful and confusing experience for a dog, especially if they are very attached to their previous owner. Dogs are animals of routine who value security and predictability. A drastic change, such as moving to a new owner, can disrupt their sense of security, causing anxiety and stress.
However, knowing how a dog feels when it moves to a new home can vary depending on several factors, including its temperament, age, breed, and past experiences. Some dogs adapt quickly to a new environment and new owners, while others may take longer to adjust.
During this transition period, it's important for the new owner to be patient and understanding. Establishing regular mealtimes, walks, and playtimes can help your dog feel comfortable and adjust more easily. Additionally, positive reinforcement, such as praise, petting, and rewards, can be used to encourage a dog to bond with a new owner.
Consulting a veterinarian or a canine behavior professional may be helpful if the dog seems to be having difficulty adjusting to a new home or is showing signs of distress, such as destructive behavior, loss of appetite, or excessive lethargy.
Who is the owner of the dog in a couple?
In a couple, the dog doesn't necessarily have just one "owner." Ideally, both should share the responsibility of caring for the dog and giving it orders. If the dog sees two people as authority figures, it's more likely to obey both, which contributes to a harmonious coexistence.
However, a dog may form a stronger bond or be more obedient with one of them for various reasons. For example, if a person spends more time with the dog, is more involved in its training, or attends to its needs more frequently, the dog may consider them its "primary owner."
It's worth noting that the dynamics of the couple can also affect the dog's behavior. For example, if two people disagree on how to train or handle the dog, it can cause confusion and stress in the dog. Therefore, it's crucial that the couple work together and be consistent in how they care for the dog.
If you have concerns about how your dog is behaving towards you or your partner, it may be a good idea to consult a dog behavior specialist for advice.
My dog follows me everywhere but not my partner, what should I do?
If your dog follows you around but not your partner, it may indicate that your dog is more attached to you or considers you their primary authority figure. If your dog is afraid of being alone when you're not around, this behavior may also be due to separation anxiety.
You can balance the relationship so that your dog feels equally comfortable and secure with your partner. To achieve this, there are certain steps you should follow:
- Spend more time with him: Your partner should try to spend more time with the dog, playing with him, feeding him, walking him, or grooming him. This helps create a stronger bond between them.
- Training and positive reinforcement: Your partner should be actively involved in the dog's training and education, using positive education techniques to reward good behavior. This could include treats, petting, or toys.
- Participate in daily routines: Your partner should also be involved in the dog's daily routines, such as feeding and walking. This can help the dog see your partner as a trustworthy and safe person.
- Give him space: If your dog follows you everywhere, it may be beneficial to give him space so he can relax and feel safe even when you are not there.
It's important to remember that it takes time to develop a strong bond and trust with your dog, so be patient and persevere in your efforts.
How do I know who the dog's owner is?
Determining who the dog's "owner" is can depend on several factors. There are no general rules, as it depends on the specific relationship between the dog and the person. However, here are some signs that a dog considers someone its "master" or primary authority figure:
- Obedience to commands: If a dog obeys certain people's commands more quickly and reliably, it may consider them its master.
- Dog follows person: Dogs tend to follow people they perceive as authority figures. If the dog constantly follows a person around the house, it may be its owner.
- Dogs seek comfort: If a dog turns to specific people when scared or anxious, it could be a sign that he considers them his owner.
- Excited by the arrival of the person: If a dog is particularly excited by the arrival of a particular person, jumping, barking, or wagging its tail excessively, this may indicate that it considers that person to be its owner.
- Dogs pay attention to people: Dogs who see people as owners pay more attention to their movements and commands, even in distracting environments.
If you have any questions about this blog post, please feel free to leave a message in the comments section. Our team is available to answer your questions and support you in your relationship with your pet.
