The Dog Behavior Answer Book - Arden Moore [23]
But a dog who openly flops on his back with belly exposed and muscles tight, while staring directly at you and perhaps talking or growling slightly, is a confident dog calling the shots and demanding that you pay attention and do what he wants. At eight months, Byline is at an age when he is trying to determine his ranking in his “pack” — that is, in your household. You need to be in charge. If Byline starts to stare and tighten his muscles while you are rubbing his belly, stand up and have him sit for you. When he does, praise him briefly and then walk away. These actions tell Byline that you are the leader.
I strongly encourage you to enroll Byline in a basic obedience class taught by a professional trainer who uses positive reinforcement techniques. Byline is at a challenging adolescent age and would benefit greatly from this type of class. He will learn good doggy manners that will last him a lifetime.
Loves to Lick
Q I adore my golden retriever, but she showers me with affection. She is constantly licking my face, my hands, even my toes! Why use the bathtub when she’s around? How can I tone down her greetings and still let her know I appreciate her?
A You have what I call a “Licky Lou” type of dog. When I first adopted Chipper, she was a sloppy, persistent kisser as well! I’m happy to see that you are concerned about not snuffing out her enthusiastic joy for you. That is very important. Don’t worry, it is possible to teach her other ways to show her affection.
First, recognize that your dog is doing what comes naturally. Puppies instinctively lick their mothers’ chins and faces in their constant quest for chow. (Hey, these are fast-growing critters!) Many experts suggest this behavior dates back to the days when female wolves would hunt and devour their prey before returning to their litters, because it was easier to travel on a full stomach than lug a heavy rabbit home. Their hungry pups would lick their faces to cause them to regurgitate this barely digested food.
But face licking goes beyond the need to eat. Puppies are also conveying that they recognize and honor the elevated stature of adult dogs. Pay attention the next time you go to a dog park or other place with friendly dogs. Notice the ones who come up to others, lower their posture a bit, and gently kiss the muzzle of the other dog. It is their way of saying, “Hey, you rule. Now, wanna play chase?”
BREED BYTE
small dogs are gaining in popularity, but big dogs still rule. According to the American kennel club, the three most popular breeds are the Labrador retriever, the golden retriever, and the German shepherd. where does the most popular itty-bitty dog rank? In fifth place, with the Yorkshire terrier finishing just behind the beagle.
When it comes to licking people, sometimes the motivation may be a bit of leftover gravy that draws the attention of our dogs. However, the main reason some dogs shower their owners with kisses is what Aretha Franklin sings about: R-E-S-P-E-C-T. Even as they age, many dogs regard their people as leaders of their pack, the two-legger who deserves admiration. Take it as a canine compliment. Your dog is seeking your attention and your approval.
The amount of canine kissing depends on a dog’s personality. Strong-willed and adventure-seeking dogs tend to dole out kisses less frequently than sociable, happy-to-meet-all dogs who lick to acknowledge that you outrank them. Some breeds, like golden retrievers, are very mouth-oriented and express themselves by unleashing a kissing barrage.
So, how do you stop succumbing to impromptu doggy baths? Forget about pushing your dog away after that first “kiss.” Odds are this action will only motivate her to deliver more licks because she thinks she failed to communicate her message the first time. Or, she may perceive it as a signal to play and heap on more sloppy kisses.
Your best options are to teach your dog the