Can We Guess If Your Dog Runs Your Life?

About This Quiz

As the saying goes, dogs have owners, and cats have staff. However, there are some dogs out there who have managed to wrap their owners around their little finger (or claw, as the case may be). Perhaps their human feels guilty whenever they assert a boundary, or they think that loving discipline involves cruelty. The good news is that this is not the case; there is never any need to hit a dog to give it firm rules. The even better news is that dogs actually love rules! They are pack animals who respond to a set of expectations, and if those expectations are fair, consistent and clear, that makes for one safe and relaxed hound.

The corresponding difficulty is that if dogs don't have rules, rather like certain people, they can become neurotic and anxious. This is when behaviors can kick in such as chewing the furniture, relieving themselves indoors, and barking at people they've been told are welcome and friendly. It's not an ideal situation for a dog to be constantly on their guard and never knowing which way is up. 

Fortunately, you can, in fact, teach a dog new tricks, and more importantly, you can teach an owner new tricks. If your dog is emotionally fraught, establishing consistent rules will help. Sometimes, investing in some classes with a trainer is the best way to help both of you learn how to improve your relationship to one that gives you peace of mind (and saves on shoe leather), and helps your dog to be the happiest, healthiest, most chilled out pooch they can be!