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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57 minutes ago by sfreptile view |
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Rescue dog - terrible recall!!
Hi, We have a 9 (ish) month old Battersea rescue dog. Had him for about 3 months - he's an ASP (All Spare Parts), but p... (continued) |
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Nov 15, 2009 7:59pm by Pup-Eez view |
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Sleeping through the night
I have a seven month old golden retriever. He sleeps in a crate in our bedroom. He likes being in his crate as he often l... (continued) |
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Nov 15, 2009 7:50pm by Pup-Eez view |
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Corgie on the CLOCK IN TX
Take a look at this Ear Hound..he is on the clock at a shelter in Texas. Can anyone help him? http://www.petfinder.com/petn... (continued) |
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Nov 14, 2009 7:28am by Kristen view |
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