What Was Your Dog Bred To Do? How It Influences Training Results and Long-Term Success
What Was Your Dog Bred To Do? How It Influences Training Results and Long-Term Success
Ever wonder why your Border Collie can’t stop herding your kids, or why your Beagle seems to have a nose for everything? It all comes down to what your dog was bred to do! Understanding your dog’s genetic makeup isn’t just a fun fact—it’s key to unlocking successful training and a happier home life.
The Power of Genetics in Dog Behaviour
Studies from sources like Nature and the Broad Institute reveal that while breed plays a significant role in shaping behaviour, it’s not the whole story. Genetic predispositions for behaviours like herding, hunting, or guarding are deeply ingrained in many breeds. However, behaviour isn’t just hardwired—environment and upbringing are critical pieces of the puzzle too. For instance, assuming all Chihuahuas nip because of their breed might lead us to overlook their actual needs, reinforcing unwanted behaviours rather than addressing the root cause.
Breed Traits and Their Impact on You
Working Dogs
- Bred For: Guarding, pulling sleds, and rescue missions.
- Challenges You Might Face: Without enough mental and physical stimulation, they might start guarding food, toys, or even your favorite spot on the couch—turning everyday items into “must protect” resources.
Herding Dogs
- Bred For: Controlling and moving livestock.
- Challenges You Might Face: Boredom can lead to herding behaviours directed at your kids, guests, or even other pets, like nipping at heels or excessive chasing.
Hound Dogs
- Bred For: Hunting by sight or smell.
- Challenges You Might Face: Hounds are notorious for selective hearing. A Beagle might catch a scent and completely ignore your calls, leaving you trailing behind.
Sporting Dogs
- Bred For: Retrieving game for hunters.
- Challenges You Might Face: Without enough exercise, these dogs can become destructive, chewing on furniture, shoes, or anything they can get their paws on.
Non-Sporting Dogs
- Bred For: Various roles, from companionship to guarding.
- Challenges You Might Face: Some non-sporting breeds might prefer lounging over exercising, which can lead to weight gain and stubbornness about going for walks.
Terrier Dogs
- Bred For: Hunting and killing vermin.
- Challenges You Might Face: Left unstimulated, terriers might turn your yard into a minefield of holes or become escape artists in pursuit of small critters.
Toy Dogs
- Bred For: Companionship.
- Challenges You Might Face: Their small size can make them more insecure, leading to defensive behaviours like being snappy or overly protective if not properly advocated for.
How Genetics and Environment Work Together
While genetics provide the blueprint for your dog’s behaviour, how you raise and train them shapes the outcome. A dog’s temperament is a blend of their genetic predispositions and the environment you create for them. For example, a Labrador might be bred to be friendly, but without proper socialization, even a Lab could become skittish around children.
Understanding what your dog was bred to do allows you to tailor your training approach, setting both of you up for success. Whether it’s channeling your Border Collie’s herding instinct into agility training or giving your Beagle plenty of scent-based games, working with their natural tendencies leads to a happier, more balanced dog.
Genetics and Training
Understanding the genetic makeup of your dog is crucial in tailoring a training approach that works with, not against, their natural instincts. For instance, using food rewards in ways that resonate with their breed-specific behaviours—like incorporating chase games for herding dogs or scent-based hunts for hounds—can dramatically enhance their food motivation and training results. It’s vital to work with a trainer who grasps these nuances. At Street Wise Canine, we specialize in breed-specific training, ensuring your dog’s natural instincts are respected and utilized for effective results.
Conclusion
Your dog’s breed isn’t just a label—it’s a key to understanding their behaviour and needs. But remember, while breed traits provide a starting point, the real magic happens when you consider both their genetic predispositions and their life experiences. By creating a training plan that suits your dog’s unique personality, you’ll enjoy a more harmonious life together.
Street Wise Canine Dog Training
Proudly serving Norkfolk County, Ontario.
Referenced Studies:
1. “Breed Differences in Canine Aggression” (2014) - Applied Animal Behaviour Science
2. “Genome-wide association study of behavioral traits in German Shepherd dogs” (2016) - Nature Scientific Reports
3. “Breed and age influence on aggression and anxiety in dogs” (2013) - Veterinary Journal
4. “Dog genetics suggest behavior is more than just breed” - Broad Institute