For many people, owning a dog is non-negotiable for many reasons. Some may wish to have an additional security measure in place, as large dogs are a deterrent to many would-be home invaders, who may then simply choose easier pickings for their attempts. To others, a dog is a four-legged companion who provides emotional support, a reason for getting out and exercising, hours of fun and laughter together, and unconditional love, no matter what.
Dogs are often preferred to cats as companions
Dogs are generally known for their often-pleasing characters, their ability to follow commands once they have been properly trained in acceptable behaviour, and their enthusiasm – as opposed to cats, who tend to be rather aloof and more independent and simply refuse to lower themselves to being trained by those they consider to be their human servants.
Owning a dog means much more than just “having” a dog
So, for owners who care for their dogs and are responsible “parents”, a well-trained and obedient dog is a pleasurable addition to the family unit. Unfortunately, for those who live with dogs who are not given adequate training and sufficient discipline and are left by their owners to run free and do as they please, they can be a nightmare. Not everyone feels the same way about dogs, so sharing a house with a dog owner who does not provide much-needed training or discipline can be stressful and incredibly annoying. Being jumped on the moment you step out of your door, having dogs under your feet in the kitchen every time you enter it because they do not have a set feeding routine, or trying to come and go generally without constantly having to push off an over-enthusiastic dog is enough to make you want to run for the hills – VERY quickly!
Dog Trainers exist for a VERY good reason!
The reason for this rant? It all comes down to the absolute NEED for proper training and sufficient exercise for dogs – no matter their size. Dog trainers are there for a very good reason, and that is to make that four-legged member of the household a pleasure to be around (mostly) because they know how to behave in a civilized manner. Dogs who, when told to “Stop!” or “Sit!” or “Down!”, do exactly that on command, and do not reduce the visitor to high aggravation levels just trying to move away from them without falling face-down on the way. Dogs who do not constantly jump up on you and try to knock plates and cups out of your hands, who understand when the word “No!” is said and accept what it means.
Dog Walkers are there to share the burden of exercising your dog
Much of this is due to a lack of proper training, but can also be blamed on inadequate exercise routines, making them overactive and with no means of burning off their excess energy. That is where dog walkers come into the picture. If owners do not have the time, means or inclination to give their dogs sufficient exercise by way of long walks or other ways of play which are physically tiring every day, then they should employ someone to do this for them. Sometimes responsible older children or young teenagers are only too happy to take dogs out for exercise without expecting payment, simply because they enjoy the play as much as the dogs do. If you have one of these gems in your area and who you trust to supervise your dog, where both the dog and the walker are happy in each other’s company, by all means, take up the offer! If not, hire a professional dog walker who is trained to take care of your pet responsibly and safely. Dog walkers are treasures of the finest kind, animal lovers who genuinely care for their charges and will ensure that no harm befalls them whilst under their control.
Train, rather than Punish!
Professional dog trainers begin their training routines with puppies from about three months of age, which is when most learning begins. Leave a dog without training for a year or more, and it will become increasingly difficult to change its habits and routines. There will come a time when commands mean nothing to the dog, who simply has no concept of what is being conveyed to them and therefore learns nothing from the experience. In such cases, frustrated owners or handlers will resort to more physical forms of discipline or punishment, which is both cruel and unnecessary. Why physically punish a dog for something it has done when it has never been taught to understand that this behaviour is unacceptable? Beatings and physical restraints are unnecessary if the dog is sufficiently trained in its formative months, so why resort to this type of conditioning? I am a strong believer in the humane treatment of animals at all costs and see no call for punishment for poor behaviour when it is easier to teach and reward good behaviour from an early age. The fact that punishment is not a necessary means of training also factors into my thinking.
Taking the best care of your dog is not a simple matter
The bottom line is simply that taking care of a dog is a far more complex and involved issue than many owners will acknowledge. Like bringing up children, it requires love, dedication, routines, gentle teaching/learning practices, understanding, a balanced and measured approach and an acknowledgement of personal responsibility in the matter. If you feel that you are unable to give your best attention to your canine family member and ensure that he or she is a welcome and well-behaved member of the household – one who does not drive visitors away through poor behaviour – then find a good dog trainer and/or dog walker who will be able to help you. For more information, please see Uptasker’s Dog Trainers and Dog Walkers articles and listed contacts.
