05/30/2026
Listen up!!
While the first 3 domains focus largely on the inputs that influence welfare, the Fourth Domain also asks us to look at behavior itself as evidence of welfare.
In other words:
▪ Is this animal doing what they would naturally be doing if captivity were not preventing it?
▪ Are the behavioral interactions this dog is having with the environment, other dogs, & people reflective of their natural history, behavioral ecology, & natural motivations?
▪ What does that actually LOOK like in dogs?
▪ How can we effectively support natural canine behavior when, as an industry, we have barely identified which natural behaviors dogs need to express for good welfare in the first place?
Worse still, many of the natural behaviors dogs are most motivated to perform have been mislabeled as “behavior problems” when expressed in modern pet environments.
Too often, our efforts have focused on suppressing these behaviors rather than understanding what they were for in the first place or why they are important now.
We were never taught to see many of these behaviors as welfare needs.
But animal welfare science is changing that.
We now have the frameworks, principles, & evidence to begin flipping the script on canine behavior entirely.
Not by creating less dogness in the name of “good” behavior.
Not by shaping unnatural performances.
But by creating healthier, more complete expressions of true dogness.
Over the next few weeks, we’ll be exploring these Behavioral Interactions.
We’ll discuss how to identify these behaviors & provide some hacks to support them appropriately in modern life.
Because the expression of natural behavior can be evidence that welfare needs are being met.
And their absence, as well as “behavior problems”, can be evidence that they are not.
This series will also pave the way for the public release of the complete Total Welfare Ethogram, & the Total Welfare client management and behavioral diversity tracking app this July.
We will be redefining our field - together - as welfare literate & competent professionals in 2026.
Whatever your next step is, get ready to take it.
The dogs are counting on us.
Images Commissioned By: Trick Woofs
