Should I be worried ?

[kateincornwall]

Reuben has just come home from his session with Anna and as he is her last drop off , she was happy to chat for a little while . She has assured me that he is not reactive around the other dogs , loves to play with them at chasing games or agility . She tells me that he can be cautious bordering on slightly nervy if he unsure of a situation or a new dog but definitely no nervous aggression, if anything he will display submissive behaviour . He isnt pushy with any of the others , has his favourites to play with but fine with all of them . As Reuben has been going to Playgroup for almost 18 months now , I have got to know Anna and am absolutely certain that she would tell me if a problem arose , so I feel much happier now x

 

[Boogie]

Good boy

 

[Oberon]

Dogs evolved in an environment in which it would’ve been rare to come across a dog you didn’t know. And if you did meet a new dog you would not meet it alone but in the company of other dogs you did know (humans are the same actually). This would’ve been true for most of the history of the evolution of wolves and dogs (and humans). These days dogs, especially if off lead, have to deal with every stranger (dog) they see marching up to them. Imagine walking down the street and having every single damn person come up to find out who you were...we expect our dogs to do this and to do it with a smile, every time. That isn’t a fair ask though.

This is why daycare or regular play with a group of known dog friends is so great. It’s a situation that dogs have the mental, emotional and social tools to cope with and feel safe in.

 

[kateincornwall]

This is why daycare or regular play with a group of known dog friends is so great. It’s a situation that dogs have the mental, emotional and social tools to cope with and feel safe in.

I so agree , especially during these times of avoiding people , walking in quiet places . It has been invaluable for Reuben , he squeaks with excitement when he sees the big van pulling up outside and I can have a quiet day with the little one , recharge the batteries x