There really is a fine line in our communication with our dogs. There have been two very cute and funny videos going around the internet, with both getting lots of downloads on YouTube. In fact, the owners and their dogs of the Labradors were featured on one of the major morning news network shows recently.
The dogs sure did act guilty according to human standards. If any of us had acted in a similar fashion we’d have been labeled guilty just by our response.
Has it ever occurred to us though that because our dogs are so very much tuned into OUR behavior and how WE react or respond to things that they are merely responding or acting accordingly?
This article explores the theory behind that: What Really Prompts The Dog’s ‘Guilty Look’
Veterinary ethologist, Dr. Myrna Milani, who has been a favored guest on our internet radio show, Animal Talk Naturally, explores this same concept in a different way: Human-K-9 Communication Breakdowns.
While I am no expert or authority in canine behavior, as someone who loves dogs and wants to have the best relationship with any that may grace my home, I think it would behoove all of us to take a deeper look into canine behavior and for once, consider how they think and respond to things from their perspective.
It’s fun to laugh at these videos and see them as “cute” but to make them into something they’re not well, I think we all could do a much better job at working to understand our canines considering how much effort they put into doing the same on our behalf.
Have a pawsitively tail waggin’, NATURALLY healthy day!
Photo Attribution: Shadrach the Neo Mastiff by Dr. Kim Bloomer, Copyright 2010 All Rights Reserved.
Kim Bloomer, V.N.D., N.D. is an animal naturopath as well as being certified in small animal nutrition, with years of experience in animal wellness. Dr. Kim is a published author, writer, blogger, host of the DOGgone Truth podcast. Dr. Kim offers Animal Naturopathy Mentoring and Courses. Subscribe to her DOGgone Newsletter for updates or to her blog via email. Copyright ©2005-2024 Aspenbloom Pet Care, Dr. Kim Bloomer, All rights reserved. No part of this article may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the Author/Publisher. This article is intended to be educational. However, it is not intended to be a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified animal health professional. Dr. Kim Bloomer and Aspenbloom Pet Care, do not assume any legal responsibility for misuse of the products discussed in this article. The only essential oils referenced on this website are Young Living.
They do look very cute when they have done something wrong. But we should look further into why canine behavior is like ours. Very good article.
I agree Shyanne – thank you for sharing!
Dr. Kim