Dogs are social and pack mentality animals, which means they have to be around some
type of other "animal" to estaliblish their "place" in relationship to the other(s), even
if it's human(s).
Dogs that are kept indoors and not allowed the opportunity to exercise frequently and
socialize with other dogs tend to have problems barking and other behavioral issues. Once
their owners start getting them out more often around other dogs, many times these problems subside.
It is important for dogs to know which is dominant, or the "alpha" of the "pack,"
which you may have witnessed, especially if you've ever lived with or been around more
than a couple of dogs on a regular basis. This is very true to how dogs perceive their owners, too.
If you've ever watched dog expert, Cesar Millan, he often asserts himself (and other dog owners)
to "problem" dogs as the "alpha dog" to make them more passive (and mind better).
Another added benefit to getting outside with your dog is getting to know each other better in
an environment where the dog can be a dog. You each bond with the other and learn to communicate better.
In the process, you may find both you and your dog become much healthier and happier, together.
Read More
