Blog

Why setting boundaries can be all about negotiation

There has been much debate as to why humans started to keep other species as pets. Most of us these days keep dogs and cats to enjoy their company and to get pleasure from knowing that they also enjoy being with us.    

It is partly because of this that I find very sad when I come across situations where this key element of the pet/owner relationship has been badly damaged.

Playing games with your dog is an important part of relationship building and also provides improved mental stimulation. Meeting your dogs ’mental stimulation requirements’ is just as important as meeting your dog’s exercise requirements. There are many dogs that can be ‘run’ for long periods and still seem full of energy when returning home - this usually indicates a degree of under-stimulation—your dog may be physically tired but not mentally tired.

Over the last twenty years the pet dog has finally been recognised as a worthy subject for scientific scrutiny and thus has followed an explosion in studies relating to dog behaviour and the way in which dogs and their owners interact. In the name of scientific progress it can be assumed that our knowledge and understanding of the world as it relates to our dogs has therefore also increased dramatically.

'In Defence of Dogs'
John Bradshaw
Published by Allen Lane £20

John Bradshaw has written a thought provoking book, but why in “defence” of dogs? He must have agonised over a few titles* In Praise of Dogs? In Explanation of Dogs? For the Love of Dogs? For he does praise, explain and obviously love dogs throughout.

He makes it clear that dogs are in dire need of defending from the very humans they sought to befriend over ten thousand years ago; from the misguided, inconsiderate and ill-informed owners, trainers, “behaviourists”, breeders and legislators, however well intentioned.

Cats are suffering in silence while their canine friends grab all the media spotlight, but why?

Is it acceptable to use electric shocks to contain your pets?

Containment or invisible fences are currently being advertised in the UK and further afield, as an effective way of ensuring pets remain within a certain area e.g. a garden. Invisible fences are reputed to be more effective than conventional fencing for containing your pets, and give your pet freedom while keeping them safe too.

Sounds ideal! But let’s look at what invisible fences actually are.

The arrival of a new baby is a most joyous occasion, but may not be viewed as such by the four legged members of the family!

APBC members have been called upon as leading advisors to help provide training for Scottish councils in preparation for new dog laws.

The APBC has now made it even easier to access helpful and FREE information for pet owners.

Please visit the Information section from the menu bar above and choose 'Behaviour handouts' to download a series of handouts from this qualified and highly respected source. Or simply click the link below!

APBC Free Behaviour Advice Downloads