I learned something shockingly obvious at a dog trainers’ conference I went to recently.
This was the annu
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Sue Sternberg, a well-known dog trainer and advocate based in Roundout Valley, New York, works with shelter dogs to help them become more adoptable.
During her presentation, she remarked that dogs, even with the best of owners, are expected to do absolutely NOTHING 90% of the time.
Think about that.
Dogs don’t watch TV, use the computer, read a newspaper or book, grocery shop, do laundry, cook meals, clean the house, pay bills, or have a hobby.
While some lucky dogs do go to work with their owners, they are not actually earning a living. They are also expected to do NOTHING at work.
Its hard for us to imagine what that must be like.
Its no wonder that dogs must acquire the skill of doing NOTHING. Many parts of NOTHING have to be taught to them.
Here is what NOTHING consists of:
1. Stop moving.
2. Sit or lie down.
3. Stay in one place.
4. Be calm.
5. Chew only what you are given.
6. Don’t whine or bark.
7. Don’t fidget or lick or scratch.
8. Just be. Looking cute is a plus. Sleeping is expected.
All of the above are pretty standard operating procedures for dogs ages 7 and older that are not Jack Russells. But the average puppy, or even 2 year old dog, finds these requirements fairly challenging.
So…during that 10% of the time your dog is doing SOMETHING – eating, drinking, playing, walking, interacting with the human family – make that hairbreadth of the day meaningful and stimulating. Click here for some ideas to help you enjoy your dog 100% of the time.