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6 Significant Dog Instincts And Traits
from:Domestication:
Canines were probably the first species to be domesticated by
humans. It's a generally accepted theory that the worlds first
dogs were tamed wolves. Dogs share biological similarities with
wolves. They look much alike. Anatomically, they have almost
identical teeth, adapted for seizing and tearing. Their actions
are similar and they have extremely sensitive senses of smell
and hearing. Domesticated canines are loyal to and dependent
upon their masters. They have taken a subservient place in human
society. The only reward many dogs seek is a kind word and a pat
on the head. Still, the study of dogs and wolves teaches us many
traits that haven't changed much since before they were
domesticated.
1. Instinct:
Instinct is an inborn tendency to behave in a way that is
characteristic of a breed.
2. Body Language:
Postural display is yet another characteristic of canines.
* When meeting a strange dog or person, non socialized dogs will
raise their hackles (hair on their backs and necks). This is
more noticeable in short haired dogs, which makes them look
larger than they normally are. It is meant to intimidate other
dogs and people who pose a threat. Oftentimes hackle raising is
combined with pulling back their lips to show their teeth.
* A dogs ears and tail positions are among other postural
displays that will tell what a dog is thinking. For instance,
most dogs will tuck their tails between their legs and their
ears will fall when submitting to a greater power.
* Rolling over on their backs is another action of submission a
dog will portray.
* Kneeling, or putting their front legs on the ground and
lowering their front quarters is an indication they want to
play. Combining this with a wagging tail displays friendliness.
* A superior more dominating dog will usually assume another
significant body posture toward another dog. Standing tall on
stiff legs, the superior dog will strut around the powerless
one, often stressing this posture with frequent growls and
snarls.
* Another instinctive habit seen in many dogs, is turning in
circles before lying down. Some experts say this circling goes
back to the days when dogs turned around and around to pack down
the grass to make a soft bed. Others think the habit is more
likely connected to their checking the ground for the scent of
its enemies, since the dog has its nose to the ground during the
turning around.
* Digging is another inborn trait in that dogs will occasionally
dig dens under porches or yards. Terriers were known to pursue
their quarry underground by digging, and this too is an
inherited behavior.
* Chasing cars and/or other animals is not a bad habit, but just
another instinct in many dog breeds.
* Attacking small animals is an inborn hunting trait derived
from the time these small rodents were the dogs main food
source. These inherited instincts are so natural that they
cannot be stopped or changed completely, no matter how much
effort is used.
3. Sense of Smell:
Sniffing or smelling the wind is another characteristic long
established by wolves and other wild canines. This serves as a
dual purpose; to detect the scent of prey and to distinguish
predators in the area. Some breeds have a more keen sense of
smell than other breeds. Domestic canines have 40 times more
olfactory (sense of smell) cells than humans have.
4. Sense of Hearing:
With their erect ears dogs can hear the faintest sound and are
excellent in early warnings of danger. Able to differentiate the
distinct sounds of different cars in the distance, pet dogs
often announce the arrival of their owner even before they can
be seen.
5. Sight:
Dogs have highly developed visual capability. Their fields of
vision is different and in some ways inferior to that of humans,
but for their purposes, it is quite adequate.
6. Memory:
Dogs have an excellent memory which gives them the capability to
learn quickly. In addition to a good memory and learning
ability, a dog has the capacity to think and reasoning
capabilities with which to solve problems. Dogs are a cunning
and intelligent animal with a complex mind.
Although dogs' instinctive actions and personalities are
influenced by heredity, like other intelligent mammals, they are
the products of genetics, experience, and training.
About the author:
Lamar Deane offers important information on How to Select The
Right Dog Breed For You.
Get Outstanding Savings On Dog Treats.
Whether you're training with positive reinforcement or simply bonding with your companion, choose a treat that suits your dog's size, age, health, activity level, chewing style and taste.
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