Dogs have been domesticated over 1000’s of years but the innate genetic drive from the wolf has never disappeared. Every dog today still has a percentage of the wolf.
Wolves “search” for their food. They “travel” to find food. They “find” food in small portions.
When we decided to domesticate the dog, we tried to domesticate them to suit our lifestyle. We provided a fenced space at our homes; we feed them big meals each day.
Yes we are excellent owners, but let’s stop and think if these are the perfect circumstances for an animal which is part wolf.
I receive many phone calls from the general public telling me that their dog has behavioural issues.
For example barking, digging and destructive chewing. These are not behavioural issues, these are normal wolf dog behaviour.
Most of the time when I visit these families, one of more of the most important components to have a balanced grounded dog is missing:
- Dogs need exercise (travel),
- Dogs need to work (search) for food,
- And dogs need “change of environment” regularly.
99% of the time once I balance exercise, mental stimulation, feeding and training, these so-called behavioural issues vanish.