Most Australian families will at some time own a dog. For many it becomes a part of family life to spend time with the dog - walking, playing or simply relaxing.
Owning a dog should be an enjoyable experience for both the dog and owner but unfortunately the number of dogs which pass through various welfare organisations indicates that many times the relationship between owner and dog sours. The sad fact is that many of the dogs which are branded as problem dogs and find their way to welfare organizations, and in many cases euthanasia, would not be problems if they had been in a different home.
Very few dogs are 'born bad' - excitable, energetic, noisy, prone to roam maybe, but not "bad". Most of the behaviour which is unacceptable to owners is perfectly normal behaviour for a canine, digging, barking, chewing, rummaging through garbage cans etc.
Some of the most popular and attractive breeds require a deal of dedication to become suitable pets in the average suburban backyard. It should be no surprise that breeds such as the Australian Cattle Dog and the Australian Kelpie are very active and easily bored. These breeds were bred to work in heat and dust over long distances and the dog who tired quickly was of no use to the stockman.
Breeds which were developed to work tirelessly required a very high activity level and although these breeds rarely perform their original tasks today, they still retain the energy levels of their forefathers. These breeds require the maximum of exercise, entertainment and supervision to prevent them seeking their own amusement. These breeds tend to pass on their higher activity levels when crossed with other breeds of more sedate nature and it is a tragedy that so many of these breeds or their crosses become unwanted.
Before purchasing a dog prospective owners should carefully consider the amount of exercise and supervision a dog will need and not purchase a dog who is likely to require more time than the owner has to give. By nature most dogs have the instinct to chase, some have the urge to fight, others to overturn garbage cans. These dogs would not be delinquents if confined to the owners property and taken for walks on a lead. Given the correct training and exercise most of the delinquents could make satisfactory companions proving the theory that there are few "bad" dogs but many 'unsuitable' or lazy owners.
Simply teaching the dog the rules of the household and some good manners can make the difference between a dog which is a lovable companion and one which is completely unruly. A dog which is kept in the backyard and never socialised or trained will naturally become over excited when the owners or children come in contact with it.
Many owners claim that their dog is stupid because it jumps up on them, but how can the dog know that this is unacceptable unless it has been taught? The sad result is that they will often get rid of this dog to get a 'more intelligent one' like their friends own.
Look closely at the 'more intelligent' dogs or the one which are wonderful companions and you will most likely find the difference is in the lifestyle of the dog and the training. The solution for your delinquent dogs behaviour is probably as close as your local dog obedience club.