Each and every dog has certain basic needs that must be fulfilled.  Most problems develop when one or more of a dog’s needs are not met. Most behaviors that people call problems are normal dog behaviors….but when they interfere with your day to day life, pose a safety risk or lead your dog into doggie dysfunction, you should seek help.

Your dog’s basic needs are shelter, sustenance (food/water), medical care, companionship/affection and physical and mental exercise.  It is important to meet your dog’s needs to keep it healthy, happy and problem free. 

Shelter:

Since dogs are domesticated animals they rely on us to care for them.  Dogs were created to live with people and should do just that…they should live WITH us.  A dog that does not learn to live harmoniously in the house with its owner, is destined for trouble.  Living harmoniously means the dog needs to know the rules regarding everything in the house; people, other animals, food, furniture, etc.

The following problems can develop when a dog’s needs related to shelter are not met:

·       House soiling

·       Destruction

·       Digging

·       Barking

·       Escaping

·       Social problems

·       Anxiety

·       General bad behavior

Sustenance:

It’s not as simple as putting out food and water…..when the right food is given at the right time, and in the right way, all is right in the household…BUT a lot can go wrong when it’s not right!

The following problems can develop when the proper sustenance is not provided:

·       Health problems like itching, hyperactivity, and obesity

·       Possessiveness and guarding behaviors

·       Fights between dogs living together

·       Lack of appetite

·       Begging, food stealing, and counter surfing

·       Not listening, no motivation

·       Biting

Medical Care:

All you need to do is get your dog to the vet once a year and you’re done, right?  Sort of.  Dogs should see the vet at least once a year to maintain good health.  Dogs should be given medications to prevent heartworm, fleas and parasites.  Some dogs need to see a professional groomer also, to maintain their good health and prevent skin irritation, painful matting, and more.

The following are problems that can prevent owners from meeting the medical and grooming needs of their dogs or cause significant difficulties in doing so:

·       Anxiety, sickness or fear related to the car

·       Anxiety, fear or aggression related to other dogs, vet and/or the groomer

·       Anxiety, fear or aggression when being handled and examined

Companionship/Affection

Dogs are social animals.  They thrive on attention and they hate being alone.  The greeting you receive when you return home should tell you how important you are to your dog.  The company a good dog can provide is priceless.  The company of a good dog owner is priceless too…

The following problems related to companionship and affection can develop:

·       Nipping and biting

·       Play without boundaries

·       Neediness, annoying demands for attention, and an inability to calm down

·       Jumping

·       Hyper behavior indoors

·       The need to hold the dog too often or not being able to hold your dog at all

·       Fear, Anxiety or aggression towards people

Physical/Mental Stimulation:

Most breeds of dog were created with a purpose in mind. Terriers were used to kill vermin around the house and farm. Herding dogs worked long days moving livestock and keeping them safe from predators. Hounds and Retrievers were great helpers on the hunt.  If a dog isn’t taught what to do and when to do it, it will often find troublesome ways to keep itself busy.  Terriers bite ankles and attack toilet paper rolls. Collies and Shepherds can be overly protective and controlling.  Hounds and retrievers are known for raiding the trash.  Dogs need suitable outlets for their mental and physical energy. 

The following problems can develop from improper or insufficient physical and mental exercise:

·       Obesity

·       Barking

·       Biting

·       Boredom and related behaviors like destruction, digging, chewing and escaping

·       Jumping

·       Protectiveness, guarding of people, places or things

·       Behaviors related to social problems-fear, anxiety and aggression toward dogs, people or other animals

If you own a dog or are considering one, it is in your best interest to learn what your dog needs and how to properly provide for those needs or you could be in for a messy ride!

An educated dog owner is happy and has a well adjusted dog.