Hello and Happy March!
If I gave you a magic bullet to solve some of the most challenging issues with your dog would you use it?
Dogs originally had a very structured role by performing a job for their family such as herding livestock, hunting, performing rescue duties, and hauling heavy items. They dutifully executed their daily tasks and ended their days with purpose.
Their families normally fed them food from the farm, whole chickens, beef, whatever was fresh. Because of their uniquely designed physiques and intricate muscles, they enjoyed the work and thrived on the fresh foods.
In modern times, these types of tasks for dogs are rarely needed or performed and the food choices have been reduced to dry, canned or processed foods devoid of nutritional value. Our dogs roles have been redefined; they must love us, keep us entertained, provide comfort and just plain be around us. Yet, they still biologically require that physical experience to fulfill their sense of purpose.
Their bodies and minds need to be moved, motivated and
challenged daily so they remain emotionally and physically balanced. This is one reason the walk with their human is so important.
Without the walk, there is no reason to eat; without the walk, they constantly search for their role in the pack;
Without the walk, their energy builds and they become frustrated, destructive and sometimes aggressive.
When our pets exhibit any of the above behaviors, owners frantically seek to find a remedy. They purchase every type, style and flavor of food to find the one they will eat,
falling prey to the commercial food companies array of toxic chemical additives, sugars, salts and rendered fat sprays to make food more palatable. They call upon experienced trainers to advise them on commands or tools they can use to rid their dogs of the unwanted behaviors. Owners even resort to drugging their dogs,
further suppressing the pent up energy and frustration that caused the offending behaviors in the first place.
When I witness folks trying every possible solution to create balance with their dog I ask them, " How often to you walk your dog?" The answers vary from not at all to very little, and having a backyard for the dog to roam in is not a substitute.
The answer to most of the challenging behavior issues with your dog is HE/SHE NEEDS TO BE WALKED DAILY for a minimum of 45 mins to 1 hour. He needs to have that sense of purpose. She needs that job and small dogs need to walk as much as big dogs.
If you have problems walking your dog on a leash, elicit the
counsel of a good trainer. Remember, you are in charge; allowing the dog to lead creates imbalance in your relationship.
Diane at Dogtrain offers great advice. Find someone who will help you meet your needs with your dog. If you have time constraints, consider a doggie backpack to use with your dog to drain her energy or use a treadmill.
Make a commitment to yourself and your dog to complete this ritual daily; you WILL see a difference in his/her behavior. Also, consider a
Holistic Food Diet comprised of fresh proteins, vegetables, fruits and other vital nutrients so
your dog won't just survive, it will THRIVE.
It's time to add meaning and purpose back into your dogs life. His/Her well-being depends on it and you will be the beneficiary of the positive results.
BARF = Biologically Appropriate Raw Food
Veterinarian Approved
