THE 3 TYPES OF DRIVES IN DOG, AND THE BREEDS TO HAVE THEM

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Written By: Gabby Reed, (Founder & Head trainer of WBCS).

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Understanding the intricate world of canine behavior is a pivotal aspect of being a responsible dog owner and an effective trainer. In this blog post, we'll delve into the three primary drives in dogs and explore the breeds that naturally excel in each category. By comprehending these drives – Prey, Pack, and Defense – owners can foster a deeper connection with their furry companions and tailor training methods to suit their unique needs.

Prey Drive: The Prey Drive is closely associated with hunting instincts, attacking, finding, tracking, and stalking – characteristics commonly observed in hunting dogs. It's crucial for owners of these breeds to recognize and channel this innate drive appropriately. Here are some notable breeds that exhibit a strong Prey Drive:

• German Short-Haired Pointer

• Border Collie

• Cattle Dog

• Husky

• German Shepherd

• Pitbull-Terrier

• Rhodesian Ridgeback

• Labrador Retrievers

Pack Drive: The Pack Drive is centered around socializing, playing, and interacting, making these dogs excellent family companions. Owners of breeds with a prominent Pack Drive can enhance the bond by engaging in activities that cater to their sociable nature. Here's a list of breeds known for their Pack Drive:

• Golden Retriever

• Yorkie

• Beagle

• Basset Hound

• Great Dane

• Cocker Spaniel

• Shih Tzu

• Bichons

• Doodles

Defense Drive: The Defense Drive is marked by loyalty and a natural inclination towards protecting oneself and others. Breeds with a strong Defense Drive often make formidable guard or protection dogs. Owners should foster a sense of security and provide appropriate training to ensure a balanced temperament. Notable breeds with a prominent Defense Drive include:

• Doberman

• Rottweiler

• Belgian Malinois

• German Shepherd

• Bullmastiff

• Boxer

• Akita

• American Pitbull

• Pyrenees

In conclusion recognizing and appreciating the inherent drives in our canine companions is a cornerstone of effective dog ownership. By tailoring training methods and activities to suit these drives, owners can foster a harmonious relationship with their dogs, leading to well-adjusted, happy, and fulfilled pets. Always remember that each dog is an individual, and understanding their unique drives is key to unlocking their full potential in terms of behavior, training, and companionship.

Wishbone Canine Services offers multiple courses for all types of breeds. To learn more, go to our "Services" page to check them out!