We know there are still probably a lot of unanswered questions, but this will be the final installment of the “Why Do Dogs Do What They Do” series. We’ve tried to hit on the most frequently asked questions so pet guardians can have a better understanding of some behaviors and some health issues.
We would like to thank Sydney Warner, BS Psychology, ABCDT, Dip.CVST, IAABC-ADT, Elite FFCP, Certified Dog Trainer, Canine Behavior Consultation, and Owner of Clever Critters, LLC, and Brendan Simmons and Vanessa Gori, who are both Veterinary Technicians and Owners of Honey B’s Pet Sitting and Pet Care Services, LLC, for contributing their knowledge about dogs to these posts.
Should I feed my puppy/dog kibble only, canned food only, or a combination? Is there a better diet I can provide?
Clever Critters: It is a good idea to provide variety in your dog’s diet. Not only is it enriching, but it will reduce the novelty of various flavors and could assist in training and teaching dogs to take medications cooperatively.
If my dog has a high prey drive, can he/she be trained not to chase?
Clever Critters: Yes! Though this is definitely a very difficult skill for many caregivers to teach, and there is never a guarantee that a specific dog would never chase again. The behavior comes from an instinctual need, and some dogs will be more difficult to teach this based on genetics, learning history, and having their needs met (enrichment). There are phenomenal courses using humane methods that are very effective.
Is it okay for my dog to sleep in bed or be on the couch with me?
Clever Critters: Yes! Dogs are a social species and have been heavily domesticated to be with humans. Being on the bed or couch is comfy, closer to you, smells like you, maybe achieves access to other desirables, and more. Studies have shown that many people and dogs benefit from having the dog sleep in the bed. The only time it is not “okay” is if there are aggression concerns where the couch or bed are factors or triggers that need to be assessed and addressed.
My rehomed dog only pees inside, even when I walk him. What can I do?
Clever Critters: Tricky question. When assessing behavior concerns there are a lot of factors that must be taken into account before developing an effective and ethical behavior change plan.
- Some, but not all of the possibilities could be the dog never learned to potty outside or on a leash or on walks, the dog could be nervous about being out on walks and feel safer at home to put themselves in such a vulnerable position, or maybe the dog is too easily distracted on walks and “forgets” to pee until they get home. There is also always the possibility of a medical factor contributing.
- Reach out to your vet and to a humane-certified behavior consultant to help further assess with you and develop a behavior care plan that addresses your dog’s specific needs.
Are probiotics good to give a dog? Should I do it daily or only when he/she seems to be having digestive issues?
Clever Critters: Probiotics are highly recommended, especially for dogs that are working through chronic stress or anxiety. There are many different strands and not all of them are best for behavioral needs, so working with your veterinarian is important when choosing a probiotic. Some dogs that are anxious have contributing health concerns, especially gut health, and addressing those underlying medical conditions is crucial for helping their mental health as well as their physical health.
Why do some dogs get along and some just don’t “play well” with others?
Clever Critters: Dog sociability is a spectrum. Just like people don’t get along with everyone, neither do our dogs. Generally, dogs are more social when they are under 2 years old because developmentally that is important for socialization. Once they begin to reach sexual and social maturity their preferences for dog-dog interactions may change or be changing. Learning history also plays a large role in this. Dogs that have a negative association (single or multiple events) with other dogs are more likely to become less dog-social or more dog-selective. Breed can play a part, but ultimately it is individual preferences based on a wide variety of factors influencing their social needs.
Why do dogs like some people, but seem to dislike others?
Clever Critters: Dogs are a social species and were domesticated alongside and purposefully to be with humans. However, it seems we often forget that they are sentient creatures who, like us, don’t like everyone they meet. This could be due to poor or lack of socialization during vital developmental periods, aversive learning history, not respecting the dog’s personal space or listening to their communication, and plenty of other considerations.
What should I do if I find a stray dog wandering around without a collar?
Clever Critters: Do not approach unknown dogs. Assess their body language and behavior to determine if it is safe for you to try and rescue the dog, or if it would be better to get professionals involved by calling Animal Control services. It is not wrong to allow professionals to do this as it is the safest option for you and perhaps even for the dog. Never reach out to let a dog sniff your hand. They can already smell you and may perceive this as invading their space. You can use food if you have any to try and lure the dog into a yard or other safe space for professionals to pick it up.
- Friendly dogs that want to interact with you may be easy to leash and easy to encourage towards you. Positioning your body to be lower down (such as squatting or on one knee) and facing away with your side presented is less threatening and more inviting.
- I always carry a spare bag of treats and leashes, including martingale leads, in my car just in case. It’s been handy a few times!