“Unleash the individuality of your four-legged friend – meet the dog that is in front of you, a complex being with a unique personality and behaviour that evolves with every moment”
There is a saying in the industry known as “The dog that is front of you”
Often I get asked about a particular breed or what the dog should be doing at a certain age. While this often can be a good question to get a general feel, there are no hard definite answers.
Based on the individual’s dog’s personality and how their life has been up till now, you may get a very different kind of behaviour than you may have been expecting. This does necessarily mean there is something wrong with the dog; it’s just “the dog that is front of you”
I often say “Personality first, breed second”
Some people may not realize is that, just like humans, dogs have their own individual personalities and can display different behaviours based on the moment in time.
For example, the dog that is sitting in front of you right now may be playful and energetic one minute, and then suddenly become quiet and reserved the next. This is because dogs, like people, have moods that can change throughout the day. Just like we can have a good day or a bad day, dogs can have moments where they are more or less energetic, social, or even aggressive.
Another factor that can impact a dog’s behaviour is their environment. For example, if they are in a new or unfamiliar place, they may be more nervous or cautious. On the other hand, if they are in a familiar place where they feel safe and comfortable, they may be more relaxed and confident.
Another huge topic this saying relates to is comparing your old dog to a new dog. (when an older dog has passed away or bringing a new dog into the house-hold) This can lead to possible disappointment and misunderstandings.
Each dog is a unique individual with their own personality, behaviour, and history. They have different strengths, weaknesses, and preferences that make them who they are. By comparing them, you risk missing out on the wonderful qualities and joys that each dog has to offer.
If it’s a situation of two or more dogs in the same household, instead of comparing your current dog to a new dog, focus on getting to know each of them as individuals. Appreciate their unique personalities and behaviour, and work to build a strong bond with each of them. This will help you to better understand and appreciate each dog’s strengths and weaknesses, and create a loving and supportive environment for both of them
So, if you’re looking at the dog in front of you right now, try to understand that they are more than just a cute furry companion. They have their own unique personality, and their behaviour may change based on a variety of factors. By understanding and appreciating this, you can deepen your bond with your furry friend and create a lifelong friendship that is filled with love, laughter, and lots of wagging tails!
We often get lots of questions from people who are new to having two or more dogs or have a new puppy/rescue after losing a previous dog. If you would like to chat more, let us know.
These are some of the areas we provide dog training for in Sydney – if you are not listed, please still contact us ! The Hills – Annangrove, Baulkham Hills, Beaumont Hills, Bella Vista, Box Hill, Carlingford, Castle Hill, Cherrybrook, Dural, Glenhaven, Glenorie, Kellyville, Kenthurst, Maraylya, Maroota, Nelson, Northmead, North Rocks, Rouse Hill, West Pennant Hills Blacktown and surrounding areas – Acacia Gardens, Dean Park, Doonside, Glendenning, Glenwood, Kellyville Ridge, Kings Langley, Kings Park, Lalor Park, Marayong, Marsden Park, Oakhurst, Parklea, Quakers Hill, Schofields, Seven Hills, Stanhope Gardens, The Ponds, Toongabbie, Vineyard, Riverstone
