Preserve the Nature in Your Dog

How to Preserve the Nature in Your Dog

 

 

Have you ever suspected that your dog has a sense of humor? Good news: You’re human. Our species is hardwired to see ourselves in others — even animals. The areas of our brains that respond to babies also light up when we look at our pets. It’s part of what helped us develop a relationship with wolves in the first place. But treating pets like people can also have certain drawbacks. Here’s how (and when) it’s beneficial to let dogs be dogs.

 

Three dogs outside in nature sitting on a rock

Begin with the Breed Background

Around 40,000 years ago, wolves started diverging as a species into the domesticated dogs we know today. Since then, they have developed a huge variety of personality quirks and physical differences. Helping them embrace their nature starts with understanding their breed. For example, it’s up to you to help your border collie expend their seemingly endless reserves of energy. Or, if you have a dachshund, you can satisfy their natural desire to burrow by leaving out a few blankets for them to hide under.


A dog laying on a trail outside

Don’t take animal instincts personally

Due to our tendency to see our pets as people, we often ascribe human emotions to their actions. When one dog steals a toy from another, we see jealousy. When they chew doors, we see mischief. When they don’t respond to our commands, we see disrespect. While dogs are intelligent, it’s important to see the animal instincts behind their behavior and respond accordingly. Reinforcing positive behavior is almost always better than shouting “No!” in response to bad behavior.


A dog eating from its bowl

Keeping a Natural Weight

It goes without saying that regular bowlfuls of kibble were in short supply in the wild. However, you can still give your dog a high-protein diet that will help them grow lean muscle and support their immune system. CRAVE™ dry dog food diets feature meat as the first ingredient, which caters to dogs’ instinctive desire for flavors like beef, chicken, lamb and venison.


A dog walking next to a human

Keep your dog active

One of the simplest ways to help your dog live a more natural life is to spend ample time in nature together. Whether you’re trotting on a trail or chasing a ball in the backyard, fresh air and exercise can do wonders for your dog’s mental and physical health.


Two dogs playing outside in the sun rolling in the grass

Allow Your Dog to Socialize When Possible

Helping your dog socialize can be challenging these days, but giving them opportunities for time around other dogs and people is important. Passing another dog on the sidewalk is better than nothing at all.


Bottom line? Educate yourself on what makes your best buddy tick. The more you understand, the easier it is to help them be themselves and live a happier, doggier life.

Back to blog

Articles You’ll Love

Crave Pet Foods

The Power of Protein In Crave™ Cat Food

Proteins are essential nutrients used to promote muscle development, aid in digestion, provide energy and support healthy immune systems in all animals.
READ ARTICLE
Crave Pet Foods

TAKE THE MYSTERY OUT OF DOG FOOD LABELS

When you go grocery shopping, you read the nutrition labels on food packaging to help you decide what you want to buy.
READ ARTICLE
Crave Pet Foods

THE POWER OF PROTEIN IN CRAVE™ DOG FOOD

Proteins are essential nutrients used to promote muscle development, aid in tissue repair, provide energy and support a healthy immune system in all animals.
READ ARTICLE