Transforming Dog Behaviour for a Happier Home

In the wild, a dog’s ancestors lived by clear survival rules—hunting for food, forming packs for protection, and constantly moving to explore and patrol their territory. Every action had a purpose: barking warned of intruders, digging created a safe den, chewing strengthened their jaws, and chasing prey ensured survival. Even today, our dogs carry these deeply ingrained instincts, but now they find themselves in a world where food arrives in a bowl, their movement is often restricted, and their opportunities to express natural behaviours are limited.

This clash between a dog’s instinctual needs and our human expectations can lead to frustration, anxiety, and unwanted behaviours. A dog confined to a small home without enough exercise may develop destructive tendencies. A working breed left without a job to do might resort to herding children or obsessively chasing its tail. Even barking—once an essential form of communication—is often seen as a nuisance in a peaceful neighbourhood.

The challenge for dog owners is understanding these instincts and finding ways to meet them within the boundaries of modern life. Every dog has different needs depending on their breed, history, and environment, but all dogs benefit from mental stimulation, physical exercise, and a clear sense of purpose. When these needs are unmet, behavioural issues arise—not out of stubbornness or malice, but from confusion, frustration, or distress.

By recognising the natural instincts that drive our dogs’ behaviour, we can start to bridge the gap between their ancient past and their modern lives, creating happier, more balanced companions.