Downside to smart dog?
QUESTION: What's the downside of having a smart dog? answered by Jean Donaldson ANSWER: Surprisingly, there are quite a few. Smart dogs actually learn to "work" the system, and they pick up the naughty stuff just as quickly as they learn the good-behavior stuff. Most importantly, though, smart dogs are the most easily bored and understimulated. Unfortunately, boredom and understimulation has serious welfare implications (think about how zoos get knocked for having unenriched environments for their captives). Severe problem behaviors can result, as the dog gives himself his own projects to do. Any dog, but especially the smart ones, need plenty of mental exercise. Jean Donaldson is the founder of San Francisco SPCA's Dog Training Academy and author of numerous books, including Culture Clash. Read more about Jean Donaldson in the DogTime expert center... 
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68 topics, 296 posts
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Dog puts his front paws in the table
One of my chows does this and we usually put his paws down and tell him NO. He still doesnt get it :( We're afraid he might reach foods he ... (continued) |
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Aug 22, 2008 4:01pm by cowgirlchick78 view |
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Puppy biting
Let me start by saying I have owned in my lifetime 12 dogs and have never been this frustrated before. Of course, I understand that most of... (continued) |
8 | 292 |
Aug 22, 2008 10:01am by esmeviolet99 view |
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My dog owns me
I have an 11 month old Boston Terrier/Beagle which we have had for 8 months. He is neutered. He shows no food aggression as I can take hi... (continued) |
2 | 68 |
Aug 21, 2008 8:57pm by esmeviolet99 view |
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is Jolie bored?
Hi, this is maybe a silly question.. Is it normal for my dog to be very calm in the house (maybe a good thing?) But she is very active outs... (continued) |
5 | 143 |
Aug 21, 2008 1:46am by Hinrik and J... view |
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Downside to smart dog?
