The Unwritten Contract

I often see dogs that have apparently “gone off the rails”.

A typical scenario is “He’s just started ripping things up in the house when he’s left. He doesn’t need to be left for long - he’s just so destructive now”

Another example is “He will not stop barking - As soon as he’s left in the garden he just stands at the back door or the fence and barks his head off”

This usually results in the owner chastising the dog for his “unruly” behaviour. This can range from harsh words to unnecessary punishment

Here’s my viewpoint on this. In my crazy assed mind I see the relationship between dog and owner as an unwritten contract. This is a contract where the owner/leader agrees to be consistent and fair. The leader displays protection and guidance and always rewards loyalty and obedience. The dog and owner create a routine that is adhered to and in return, the dog looks forward to the good times and accepts the bad times with patience and diligence.

Most dogs will happily tolerate the dull times if the good times are enjoyable.

I honestly believe that things go wrong when a dog feels this contract has been broken. The owner displays a lack of consistency and the dog recognises the negative pattern with no “good bits”. This is where all negative, unwanted behaviour is rooted.

People call me thinking I can waive a magic wand and cure these issues with no input or work on their part. I’m truthful with them. I can’t change a dog’s opinion of their owner without the owner reviewing and adhering to their side of the contract. The dog’s opinion has been based on broken promises and inconsistent routines where the dog has continuously lost out.

The only way I see these situations being resolved is when the owner changes his ways and lives up to their part of the contract. Trust and respect is earned and cannot be blagged or bluffed. Most dogs will happily tolerate the dull times if the good times are enjoyable, especially if they occur at regular intervals.

If your dog is displaying inconsistent, destructive or noisy behaviour you should review the contract from the dog’s view point. Consistent daily routines that incorporate obedience training and fun with help in solving most of these issues

I must admit I have a low tolerance of owners that will not keep their side of the bargain. These people just don’t deserve to own dogs.

Owners who cant live up to their side of the contract should consider rehoming the poor dog rather than submitting it to a life of uncertainty and inconsistence.