TYPES OF DOG HUMAN RELATIONSHIPS To help our clients and their dogs , we must first understand what type of relationship they have and their reason for having dogs , ( this does not apply to dogs who are abused or neglected as that is a different topic for discussion ). Is their goal more for function or is it emotional ; of course it can be both , but generally there is a primary goal . Learning this early in the training process can assist you in understanding their expectations and their canine companion relationship .
Ownership These are individuals who speak in terms of ownership . Generally , the dogs are used for utilitarian purposes , such as working on a farm , or hunting dogs kept in a professional kennel . Of course , these dogs can have a strong relationship with their humans , but their sole purpose is primarily utilitarian . The owner believes in “ one command ,” period . This relationship is based on a utilitarian function .
Ego Sometimes the primary reason for having a dog is mainly ego driven , as dogs can be a projection of one ’ s ego . It is helpful to know if this is the driving force in the relationship and analyze how best to communicate with these clients .
The Traditional Pet For these dog owners , their dogs are considered pets , and sometimes included in daily activities . The dogs ’ general needs are met , but there is no strong emotional attachment or sacrifice of resources . This family or individual may or may not choose to get another “ pet ” after this one , and generally needs help coping with specific behaviors that are usually the result of minimal to no socialization or training .
Sentient Parent These individuals treat their dogs like a member of the family but also as sentient beings , who have individual rights that require respect . For example , they do not believe in issuing commands , but establish themselves in the role of a parent ; providing safety , meeting the dogs ’ physical as well as emotional needs , and giving the dogs choices when appropriate . They believe that dogs have emotions and individual personalities that should be honored , if at all possible . Their interactions are positive , gentle , and patient . They have a relationship with their dogs built on trust and respect with a strong emotional bond .
So , unless and until you know what type of client you are dealing with , everyone is likely headed for a frustrating experience . There can be conflict if your perception of the human-dog relationship is different than your clients . Understanding this difference will aide you in communicating more effectively . Not all clients need or want to evolve to the level of a Sentient Parent ; but providing education certainly can increase the clients ’ perspective and provide insight into their dogs ’ relationship . Teaching how dogs communicate , their emotional reactions , and dealing with specific personality traits can help them understand what the best way is to solve a behavior or training issue . Understanding your client ’ s expectations can be a natural first step in rehabilitating behavior issues and the human dog relationship . Most people do not understand that a relationship with a dog is a two-way street . Are any of your clients driving one way on this journey ?
THE SEVEN PERCENT RULE There is a gold standard in communication that divides human communication into the following percentages :
• 55 percent body language
• 38 percent tone of voice
• 7 percent verbal
Think how helpful this information could be when teaching your clients how to communicate with their dogs ?
To help our clients and their dogs , we must first understand what type of relationship they have and their reason for having dogs , ( this does not apply to dogs who are abused or neglected as that is a different topic for discussion ). Is their goal more for function or is it emotional ; of course it can be both , but generally there is a primary goal . Learning this early in the training process can assist you in understanding their expectations and their canine companion relationship .
Conversely , dogs are masters at observing and understanding human non-verbal behavior . Unfortunately , humans are not as sophisticated , aware , or as sensitive as dogs are to us . This is where miscommunication between the two species can occur , which may result in conflict and possible harm to the dog , either physical or
The APDT Chronicle of the Dog | Winter 2022 51