The World from the Dog's Standpoint  
Behavior  
Socialization and the Learning Process in Young Puppies  
The Five Critical Stages in a Puppy's Life  

The dog is a remarkable animal. Consider this unusual trait: he is the only animal that gives his friendship and loyalty for nothing more than a word of praise or a scratch behind the ears. He is unique among all other animals in this respect.

Man and dog have been friends for more than 10,000 years. It has been a lasting friendship, starting out as a collaboration for mutual benefit. The dog volunteered his services as a hunting companion, and was tossed a bone or chunk of meat for his help. Next, he took to sitting outside the caves, waiting for any cast-off bones or meat. While he waited, he chased away any predatory animals that skulked nearby.

Our hardy ancestor, the caveman, was quick to see the advantage in having the dog stay around the caves. The dog was not only a big help in hunting and guarding the caves, but he also acted as a scavenger and kept the cave grounds clean. All in all, it was a satisfactory arrangement for both dog and man.

Gradually, as man and dog learned they had nothing to fear from each other, their relationship became more intimate. The dog graduated from being just a watchdog and hunting aide to the more exalted position of trusted friend. He moved into the caves, sharing the food and hearth of the cave family. And when he moved closer to man, an emotional bond was formed. The dog was no longer a mere animal servant or chattel, but a member of the family.

Our dogs today are not much different from those of the Ice Age. Despite the variation among the breeds, modern dogs are still basically predatory animals, geared to run and hunt. They have the same fundamental instincts and behavior of the prehistoric and wild dogs. Our modern dog is, after all, nothing more than a tame wolf.

But by his long association with man, the domestic dog has often been forced to adapt to an abnormal environment. He does this willingly, even though it may make great demands on him. However, by his willingness to live with man and serve him, the dog has put himself in a position of dependency. He no longer has complete freedom and must look to man for the physical necessities and his emotional well-being.

If we are to have a pleasant relationship with our dogs (and uphold our part of the friendship pact), we must see to it that these physical and emotional needs of the dog are fulfilled. And to meet these needs, we must understand our dogs-their instincts, behavior and whatever else makes them "tick."