Evidently, dogs are man's best friend, but do you ever wonder why they behave like that? Each breed has a set of specific behaviors due to their history, genetics, and original purpose. Whether it is a Border Collie trying to herd or a Beagle sniffing around with his nose, this behavior is from his ancestral origins. So, explore with me the top 10 dog behaviors and the influence that breed has on them.
1. Border Collies Herding Instincts
Border Collies are highly known for a strong mentality and herding nature. Originally bred as sheepdogs to run freely over the moors of Scotland, instinctively they have a tendency to herd everything that moves-meaning other pets or even small children may become the target of their actions. Their penetrating concentration, often termed stalking, and aptitude for predicting movement makes them sublime workers, but it could also make for behavioral problems if channeled into beneficial outlets such as agility or obedience.
2. Digging Instinct in Terriers
Terriers like the Jack Russell or Rat Terrier are notorious diggers. Bred specifically to hunt vermin, the digging instinct serves them well in catching rodents that tunnel underground. It might also mean that they have too much energy or get bored too easily because terriers can be headstrong and tenacious.
Giving them enough mental stimulation and exercise should help curb this instinct.
3.Guarding Instinct in Rottweilers
Rottweilers, as mentioned, are known for being guardians. They can be overly protective and guarding instincts can influence their digging instinct to search out what they consider threats. This characteristic can be used to your advantage especially when it comes to defending or protecting your family and pets from perceived threats.
Originally bred to herd cattle and protect property, Rottweilers have a very natural guarding instinct. They are often quite wary of others and guard their families very aggressively. This behavior results from their working dog heritage, but properly trained, they will be loyal, reliable guard dogs, not overly aggressive.
4. Nature Great for Swimming in Labrador Retrievers
The other reason the Labrador Retriever's popularity over so long a time has been so firm is that they like water. Originally bred to retrieve game from water for hunters, it explains why they have powerful swimming abilities and like fetching objects thrown into water. Their webbed paws and dense, water-resistant coat make them natural swimmers. One final attribute born of breeding for safely carrying game in their mouths is the gentle mouth of the Lab.
5. Baying in Beagles
Their distinctive baying and howling can be excessive if you don't know the breed. This trait is directly related to their history as scent hounds. Bred to track, particularly rabbits, their vocalizations alert hunters to their location while on the trail. Beagles have an extraordinary sense of smell, and their vocal nature is a product of their job as persistent, vocal trackers.
6. Racing in Greyhounds
Chased by instinct: The Greyhound is sleek, fast, and built for speed. Their love of chasing comes from their history as racing and hunting dogs. With a keen prey drive, this means they quickly chase off anything which moves-be it a squirrel, a rabbit, or a plastic lure on the racetrack. Though they often seem lazy enough at home, they never forget those instincts that chase your heels when provoked.
7."Talking" in Siberian Huskies
Siberian Huskies are known to vocalize well. It sounds like they are trying to talk to their owners. This has been done traditionally through long-distance sledding where the dog and the musher depend on each other in packs. They are not big barkers, though they do howl and whine and make a whole range of other sounds. These dogs can be strong-willed and independent natures that make them very charming but also challenging for inexperienced owners.
8. Couch Potatoes in Bulldogs
Although they seem to be pretty sturdy, the English Bulldog might be one of the laziest dog breeds in existence. Originally bred for bull-baiting, modern bulldogs are much milder and would prefer lounging in your house to anything more than the most tokenistic athletic exercise. Their placid temperament and low needs for exercising provide the perfect companion when seeking a serene and faithful companion. However, they can easily become too heavy, and many of their health problems can stem from a sedentary lifestyle, so exercising is still a necessity.
9. Clinginess in Chihuahuas
Chihuahuas rank among the smallest dog breeds and have developed a personal attachment to their owners. Clinginess can be attributed to its historical background of walking by the side of ancient people, such as Toltec and Aztecs. They are known for loving human attention and can attach highly to one person. Sometimes, they develop separation anxiety when left alone for too long. Hence, early training and socialization are extremely important.
10. Energy Level: Australian Shepherds are high energy dogs.
They are one of the ultimate herding breeds, next to Border Collies, and their seemingly boundless energy comes from centuries as working dogs on ranches. Intelligent, agile, and blessed with instinctive herding ability, they love to work and will be happy and contented as long as they have a job to do. In any other circumstances, they can become bored and destructive. These dogs need lots of physical and mental stimulation, which is perfect for active owners who enjoy sports like frisbee, hiking, or agility training.
Understanding breed-specific dog behaviors allows them to be appropriately cared for within the most ideal environment. From herding and hunting to guarding and swimming, each breed within this list has inherent traits which have been developed throughout centuries of time and human influence. Recognizing these traits can help your dog express them in good ways that result in a happy, well-adjusted pet. Whether you have a high-energy Border Collie or a Bulldog, knowing what makes your dog do what he does will deepen your bond with your furry friend.
Reviewed by Dog Lover51
on
September 19, 2024
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