The Empathy of Dogs

by the K9 Guy, 03-23-17

A Google search finds empathy defined as "the ability to understand and share the feelings of another." Every day I see news stories that showcase a dog's ability to understand and perceive things about their owners, surroundings, situations. They seem to understand in ways that should leave humans humble. While many celebrate these abilities, I don't find much thoughtful discussion of these abilities. I think about it regularly.

Every 1st visit with a new client, I discuss how dogs respond to the people and energies around them. Dogs are very skilled readers of body language. They also have amazing scenting abilities. As a human being's emotions change, so too does his/her body chemistry. Confident, calm, and happy smells different to a dog than anxious, worried, or angry.

When it comes to training, there's a saying that "energy travels down the leash". This in reference to a dog's abilities noted above. Almost daily I see dogs that have plenty of innate energy. That energy may be hyper, it may be anxious. But dogs with challenging energies don't do well if owners are adding more emotional charge to situations.

Often I find owners caught in a problem behavioral loop with their dog. The dog did something that is upsetting or frustrating (a fight, a bite, reactive behaviors on walks, etc.) to the owner. Afterward, when a like situation presents to the dog, the owner may be worried or anxious about how their dog will respond. Without realizing it, they're often giving their dog cues and signals that further energize or stress the dog. This problematic loop almost assures further problem interactions.

A good trainer should help owners train their dog(s). But a good trainer will also help owners develop better interactive skills with their pets. A good part of this comes by helping owners develop the confidence and understanding to teach in all situations. With good skills and confidence an owner can successfully guide their dog through challenging situations (teach), rather than add unstable energy that only undermines success.