15/02/2020
Does your dog sleep all day? Some dogs are low energy and more prone to restful periods than others. However, it’s important to ask the question: What are my dog’s alternatives?
Canis Lupus Familiaris, or the domestic dog, shares both its name and genetics with the wolf (Canis Lupus). Although domestication has wrought some differences, their basic needs remain the same. Being an intelligent and social species, their primary needs are similar to ours. Companionship, mental stimulation, exercise, good nutrition and shelter from extreme elements are vitally important to a dog’s happiness.
Wolves roam miles a day and spend hours collaborating with their pack in strategic hunting activities. They defend their territories and engage in complex social behaviours such as establishing and maintaining packs, finding and keeping a mate and protecting, nurturing and teaching their young to survive. They live very busy lives.
The life of the domestic dog in Western society has undertaken a recent and rapid evolution. Up until the mid 1900’s most dogs were allowed to roam the neighbourhood, exploring, mating, socialising and returning home at the end of the day for a meal with their family.
While the many benefits of confinement to the home (safety being number one) are difficult to deny, any castle can become a prison when its inhabitants are denied access to enrichment, exercise and companionship.
The behavioural problems associated with an unbalanced life are represented frequently in excessive barking, digging, separation anxiety, aggression, obsessive compulsive disorders, depression, anxiety and inappropriate chewing among many more manifestations. Some dogs are their own worst enemies, however, and suffer in silence.
Fortunately, the pendulum is swinging back in recognition of the above as we see a rise in enrichment toys, dog sports, doggy day care centres and dog parks.
What are your dog’s alternatives? If you’re drawing a blank, perhaps it’s time to consider providing some.
