Homeland K-9 Dog Training Academy

Most owners can say “my dog has the life.” This is so true in most homes where the pet is part of the family. Most dogs just sleep, play, and eat…doesn’t sound like a bad life, does it? But have you ever thought about further fulfilling your dog’slife by giving him/her work to do? Believe it or not most dogs are designed for a purpose. We have domesticated them and put them in a position where little is expected of them in most cases but you might be surprised to learn that your dog wants to work! Because of this sometimes a specific breed turns out to be a poor choice for a pet for certain families. For example, a herding dog doesn’t always make the best family pet if there are no expectations of them. If the herding dog lounges around all day they will become bored and will start to try to entertain themselves. This often results in behavior that you find frustrating or stressful.

I am not saying that dogs like border collies can’t be pets. In fact, they can make great pets for families who have the time and energy to also give them a purpose besides napping. Keeping active with your dog can not only help them fulfill their purpose in life but will also help build and maintain the bond between you and him/her.

I have a dog “Knox” that I say works for me. He is not a family pet, I purchased him to be a demonstration dog for my business. He actually lives at the kennel at Homeland K-9. He has what I consider a job. A lot of people have commented “you don’t take him home with you?” No, I don’t. He does go to my house but he doesn’t stay there. His purpose is at the business. Don’t feel sorry for him. He is a super happy and friendly dog and he doesn’t know another life.

Knox practices his obedience and specialty training with me every day multiple times a day. He doesn’t just lay around in the kennel, I keep him busy. He is rewarded with a tug toy or his food. He loves showing off and loves working for me. Anyone who has ever seen him do his demonstrations can tell right away that he is happy and his purpose in life is being fulfilled. Knox and I have an amazing bond and sometimes I can’t believe the friendship and control I have with this 80lb. bully mix. With his energy level and drive he would not be as happy if I had kept him laying around at home.

I believe this is true of most working dogs. Your pet wants to work for you and to perform the tasks that they were designed for. This true whether it is service work, therapy, scent detection, protection, or retrieval. It is your job to help fulfill the purpose in your pet’s life and to build the bond you have with them through training and work that they will truly enjoy.