I recently had a couple of conversations with dog owners who always left their dogs outside. Their dogs were never brought into the house. One of them said, "Well, that is the way I was raised. Dogs were not allowed in the house." My heart goes out to those dogs. I do not train dogs that are not part of the family and are excluded from being in the home. Let’s explore why.
Dogs Are Social Animals: Why Your Dog Needs to Be with You
Dogs have been by our side for thousands of years — as hunting partners, herders, protectors, and most importantly, companions. But this relationship isn't just practical. It reveals something more profound:
Dogs are social animals. They’re wired to be with people.
Dogs Are Pack Animals at Heart
In the wild, a dog’s closest relative — the wolf — lives in packs. These family groups survive by working together, staying close, and communicating constantly.
Over time, as dogs evolved alongside humans, they didn’t lose their pack instincts — they just shifted their pack to include us. You are your dog’s family. You are their safety, connection, and belonging.
Connection Is a Need — Not a Luxury
When your dog follows you around, lies at your feet, or shows distress when you leave, they’re not misbehaving.
They’re showing you how much they need social connection.
Just like humans, dogs thrive when they feel like they belong. When left alone too long or too often, many dogs experience anxiety, confusion, or even depression. Some may bark excessively or chew things, not out of spite, but to signal that they’re struggling.
What Your Dog Needs From You
You don’t need to entertain your dog 24/7, but meeting their social needs is key to their happiness and well-being. Here’s how:
- Spend quality time together daily — through walks, training, play, or hanging out.
- Talk to your dog — your tone, attention, and presence all matter.
- Be nearby — even your calm presence in the room helps your dog feel secure.
Dogs feel safest and happiest when they know you’re there.
They Don’t Just Want a Home — They Want a Person
When you adopt a dog, you do more than give it shelter—you become its person.
They don’t want to be alone. They want to be with you. That’s not neediness. That’s who they are.
Want to Learn More About Understanding Your Dog?
At Good Dog Happy Owner, we help dog owners build strong, connected relationships with their dogs based on understanding, not just obedience.
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