Do Dogs Need Jobs?

 

In years gone by, dogs were frequently regarded as tools of a trade – often ’employed’ as herding, or guard dogs. In modern times, many more dogs are kept as companions, sharing our homes and living alongside us. But, do dogs need jobs? Holidays4dogs delves into this interesting question.

 

Many breeds of dog have strong instincts to work. We’re not suggesting Fido should go out and get a job – (although wouldn’t that be handy?!) – but dogs can definitely benefit from having something constructive to do.

Border collies, for example, are bred for their herding ability. In a pet home, this can often mean they end up herding people, cars, joggers etc. A spaniels instinct is to hunt game, which means they can be difficult to recall and are always on the go, looking for the scent of animals. Terriers, being the expert ratting dog are fantastic at destroying things, chasing small prey and cats.

Whoops. One very bored dog.

German shepherds might be loyal family companions but can be suspicious of strangers. Of course, there are companion type dogs too. Chihuahuas, for example, were kept as ladies companion dogs and were used like living hot water bottles. While tiny dogs might be more reluctant to have a job – they are still capable of learning new skills and require mental stimulation, just as much as their ‘fellow workers’.

How can dogs benefit from having a job to do?

Instinct.

As we’ve outlines above, many dogs have a strong instinct to herd, guard or, hunt. This instinct can remain very strong in some breeds. It means, if they are not able to perform these instinctual behaviours in some way or another, it can result in undesirable behaviours developing within the home.

Preventing boredom.

Dogs are intelligent animals and experience a range of emotions. As a result, they can become bored and frustrated with nothing to do and limited opportunities to exhibit normal patterns of behaviour. This can result in destructive behaviours such as excessive barking, chewing or, digging.

Mental stimulation.

Providing dogs with tasks, jobs or training exercises gives dogs the opportunity to use their brains – something they’re actually very good at. In addition, providing your dog with mental exercise strengthens the bond between you and your dog.

What sort of jobs can dogs do?

Some dog genuinely do have careers. From police dogs, to guide dogs, support dogs, sniffer dogs, cancer detecting dogs and wildlife protection dogs – many dogs are employed in increasingly complex roles.

Of course, the average pet owner can’t provide their pets with such a glittering career path. However, there are plenty of things you can do at home, which will provide your dog with engaging tasks. Or, you might even enjoy getting to specific dog sports. Doing so, will greatly benefit their physical and emotional welfare.

Here’s a few ideas.

Retrieving –

– gundog breeds just love bringing things back and they enjoy carrying things around. Teaching retrieve is relatively easy and great fun for dog and owner alike. You can mix things up by hiding toys for them to find – this might be around the home, garden, or out and about in the vegetation. If you want to learn more about retrieving and other gundog skills – you could join a club, or attend a course.

Agility – 

Creating an obstacle course at home can be done with things found around the home. Alternatively, you can buy garden agility kits. Or, you might like to join an agility club and keep fit yourself too!

Herding –

Herding games are great for those breeds of dogs with an innate instinct to round things up. We are NOT saying get a flock of sheep, or allow your dog to chase livestock!

However, there are activities that simulate herding and so are fantastic ways for dogs exhibit natural behaviour in a controlled but stimulating environment. Some herding games involve using large rubber balls (the kind used in human fitness and birthing) and it’s called Treibball. Find out more here.

Trick training – 

Trick training is another fun activity which will get your dog thinking. The list of things you can teach is endless – from giving a paw, to putting their toys away. If you want to progress to more formal training you could give heelwork to music , competitive obedience or, working trials.

are dogs really that clever
Swimming – 

Swimming is great exercise for dogs, but you can also get involved in aqua sports. Retrieving from water is also a great activity for energetic dogs that love water. Do remember, however, not all dogs can swim and some don’t like water – so take your dog’s breed and capabilities into account. There are water trials specifically for Newfoundland dogs and clubs can be found in various locations around the UK.

Bikejoring/cani-cross –

While these activities are more physical, than mental, they are still a fantastic way to use some of your dog’s energy. You can do this at home, but there are also lots of clubs and events where you can get more involved. Get free training guides and find out more here.

Scent work/tracking –

All dogs love using their noses. It’s one of the primary ways they navigate their world and humans have used this to their advantage for a very long time. Scent games give dogs a good mental workout and you can easily set this up at home.

Simply hide a toy (easy to begin with ) or treats in a room and let your dog find it. You can also use empty boxes to hide items. If you want to try scenting or, tracking, as a sport there are plenty of opportunities UK wide.

how well can dogs smellOther enriching activities –

Enrichment for dogs is so important to maintain well-being and happiness. Providing puzzle toys and long lasting chews (which dogs find calming) are essential for keeping dogs occupied and mentally stimulated. Sniff walks are another essential activity for dogs, so sometimes, let your dog decide on the walking route.

Final thoughts.

All in all, dogs need to engage their brains on a regular basis – ideally daily. Al the activities above are suitable for most breeds of dog – poodles and chihuahuas, for instance, will happily play scent games or, tracking. Providing simulated activities for dogs allows them to carry out natural behaviours which contributes to their mental welfare and ‘sense of purpose’.