Questions tagged [instincts]
How do I keep my dog from chasing wildlife during a hike?
Category: Activities
Keeping your dog from chasing wildlife during a hike is an important aspect of responsible dog ownership and wildlife conservation. Dogs have a natural instinct to chase, which can be dangerous for both the wildlife and your dog. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you manage this behavior effect...
What are the misconceptions about dogs not needing to be trained if they are "sporting dogs"?
Category: Awareness
One of the most common misconceptions about sporting dogs is that they do not require formal training because their natural instincts and energy make them well-suited for activities like hunting, retrieving, or agility. This belief is not only inaccurate but can also lead to behavioral issues, frust...
How can we combat the belief that dogs don’t need to be trained if they are "hunting dogs"?
Category: Awareness
The belief that hunting dogs do not need training is a misconception that can lead to behavioral issues, safety risks, and inefficiency in the field. While hunting dogs often have strong instincts for tracking, retrieving, or pointing, these instincts alone are not enough to ensure they perform well...
What are the misconceptions about dogs not needing obedience training?
Category: Awareness
One of the most common misconceptions about dogs is that they do not need obedience training. This belief stems from several misunderstandings about canine behavior, natural instincts, and the role of training in a dog's life. Below, I will address this misconception in detail, providing scientific ...
What are the misconceptions about dogs not needing to be trained if they are "working breeds"?
Category: Awareness
One of the most common misconceptions about working breeds is that they do not require training because their natural instincts and intelligence will guide their behavior. This belief is not only incorrect but can also lead to significant behavioral issues and challenges for both the dog and the own...
What are the signs of a dog feeling protective of its owner during a visit to the vet?
Category: Behavioral Studies
When a dog feels protective of its owner during a visit to the vet, it may exhibit a range of behaviors that signal its discomfort or concern. These behaviors are rooted in the dog's instinct to guard and protect its family, especially in unfamiliar or stressful environments like a veterinary clinic...
What are the signs of a dog feeling protective of its food or resources?
Category: Behavioral Studies
Signs of a dog feeling protective of its food or resources, often referred to as resource guarding, can vary in intensity and presentation. Resource guarding is a natural behavior in dogs, rooted in their survival instincts, but it can become problematic if not managed properly. Recognizing the sign...
What are the signs of a dog feeling protective of its territory?
Category: Behavioral Studies
Dogs are naturally territorial animals, and their protective instincts can manifest in various ways. Understanding the signs of a dog feeling protective of its territory is essential for owners to manage their pet's behavior effectively and ensure safety for both the dog and others. Below is a detai...
What is the impact of breed-specific instincts on pack behavior?
Category: Behavioral Studies
The impact of breed-specific instincts on pack behavior in dogs is a complex topic that involves understanding both the genetic predispositions of different breeds and the dynamics of social hierarchy within a group of dogs. Breed-specific instincts are deeply rooted in the historical roles and func...
What are the signs of a dog feeling protective of its owner?
Category: Behavioral Studies
Dogs are naturally social animals with strong instincts to protect their pack, which often includes their human family. When a dog feels protective of its owner, it may exhibit a range of behaviors that signal its desire to guard or defend. Understanding these signs can help owners recognize their d...