Have you ever thought about how your dog might grade your work as their caretaker? Would you receive that coveted A+ for being the owner that remembers all of the big and little things? Or are you more of a solid C+, remembering the basics like mealtimes and walks, but not always thinking much beyond that? While I believe most dog owners would give themselves high marks, their canine companions might be a little less likely to hand out those easy A's. Just for fun, let's take a look at the subjects on which our dogs might rate our efforts:
First Period: Cooking & Food Service
Your dog would like to know why you feel the need to measure their food with an actual measuring cup rather than simply measuring with your heart? They also want to know how you thought they wouldn't see you dividing treats in half and eating cheese without sharing.
In all seriousness: While food should be measured to accurately assess the daily calories your dog is consuming, how they receive those calories should vary. Don't just feed your dog in a bowl. Instead, choose slow feeder bowls, lick mats, puzzle balls, snuffle mats, and food puzzles, rotating them regularly. And remember, dogs have been joining us for our meals for over 30,000 years, so go ahead and reward that steadfast devotion with a small token of your appreciation, meaning a small bite of that cheese.
Second Period: Language Arts
Your dog would like you to know he's not barking incessantly, nor without reason. There is a squirrel on the fence, a cat in the yard, a neighbor kid going by on a bike, and an Amazon delivery truck across the street. You need to know about these things and since you clearly aren't getting it at one bark, several are needed to make the point. Things are happening, people. Keep up!
In all seriousness: Most dogs bark for a reason. Whether that reason is important to you or not, acknowledge them. Tell them you saw it (or heard it) and then ask them to be quiet and redirect them to another task.
Third Period: History
Your dog would like you to know that while it is true that you've always come back every time you've left the house, SOMETIMES you are gone longer than expected and that can be quite upsetting.
In all seriousness: Dogs live in the here and now and celebrating the return of a pack member is a joyous occasion. Relish in the fact that you were missed, you are loved, and your absence was truly noted. Just because you only went to the mailbox doesn't matter to your dog. They love that you are back and want to make sure you know.
Fourth Period: Science
Your dog would like you to know that while they enjoy the sound of your voice, a good belly rub or butt scratch, and a game of fetch or tug-of-war, science shows that the real way to their heart is through a good snack. Don't skimp on the treats!
In all seriousness: It really has been studied. If you are teaching your dog a new behavior, or reinforcing an existing behavior, giving them a treat increases learning. Sure, they love being told they did a good job and receiving a physical reward from you (a pat on the head, for example), but the real, tangible reward for them is that food/treat. Keep treats on you at all times!
Fifth Period: P.E.
Your dog would like you to know that you've been hurrying them along on their walks, skipping all the good sniffs. In addition, you've cut their walks short more than once, and rarely changed the route or destination. This is the area where they feel you need the most work.
In all seriousness: Don't yank your dog along on their walks; they need to sniff. Sniffing reduces anxiety, helps them to blow off steam, allows them to assess what's happening in their neighborhood, and serves as a form of mental stimulation. You know that phrase, "Take the time to stop and smell the roses?" Your dog considers that their credo. So, while you are stopping and letting them sniff, change up your walking routes, or add in a fun hike or new destination. This will help to keep you, the person on the end of the leash, more entertained, and ultimately provide your dog with a plethora of new smells to explore.
Sixth Period: Social Studies
Your dog would like you to know that while some dogs enjoy frolicking with other dogs off leash, such activities are not for *every* dog.
In all seriousness: Sociability is on a continuum from social butterfly to total introvert. While most puppies enjoy socializing with other dogs, particularly other puppies, even some puppies prefer the company of humans to other dogs and that's absolutely okay. Most adult dogs prefer to play with their humans than other dogs, and those that do enjoy playtime with other dogs, do so for much shorter bursts of time, preferring to just "hang out together" without an agenda. Dog parks are for young, healthy, social butterfly dogs. Leave the older dogs, the introverts, and the impressionable puppies at home.
So, what's your grade point average now that you know what classes you've been taking? Are you still an A+ or are you relieved to have earned a solid B? Did you figure out where you have room for improvement? Maybe you can ask your dog for some extra credit points by taking them on a hike this weekend with friends, allowing a lot of time to sniff and explore, with a bag of treats in your pocket, just because? Hey, it could work!
As always, if you have questions about your pet's behavior, you know where to find me.
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