Dog preferences

Dogs have preferences about with which dogs they would like to be friends with.  Humans should understand this well.  We too have a tendency to be more attracted to certain people.  I’m not talking about in a romantic sense, just with whom we like to spend time.  And dogs also have preferences about which dogs that they do not like or wish to play with.  We should accept this and remember no human ‘likes’ everyone.  No amount of coaxing will change their preference although a friendship may develop over time with repeated exposure.  It is also possible that some dog will remain archenemies.

Although it is possible to train your dog to be less reactive around other dogs, it is pointless trying to force a friendship where it doesn’t naturally occur.  It is important for a dog to be able to avoid meeting if they do not want to meet.

Bitches during the time they are on heat can quickly forget their regular doggy friends as they go about making themselves available to a suitable mate.  Once her heat is over and she is no longer in season, she may happily return to her regular play buddies.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)