09/22/2023
Worth thinking about...
QUITTING SO MUCH SITTING
How did we become so obsessed with making our dogs sit for everything?
Maybe because we believe that a dog that sits on cue is obedient, well mannered, calm, has self-control and that sitting is incompatible with unwanted behaviour. Maybe because it makes us look good as strong, respected leaders or disciplinarians and allows us to feel in control.
But is it all really necessary or in the best interests of the dog, both physically and psychologically to expect them to sit so much?
Sometimes what we have always believed is not what’s best for our dogs.
“Sit” is usually one of the first thing puppies are taught. Just one session at a puppy school may include up to 20 or more “sits” - that’s a high intensity workout for a dog at any age, but puppies in the growing stage are particularly at risk. These sitting repetitions put excessive pressure on the developing skeletal system which may lead to damage or injury that may only become apparent at a later stage.
Senior dogs may find it really painful to sit down and then get back up. Sitting puts pressure on the lower back, hips and supporting muscles. Certain breeds are just not designed to repeatedly sit.
There is nothing wrong with teaching our dogs to sit and occasionally asking for sits in certain situations, but look at teaching more natural, alternative behaviours as well, that are just as effective.
Wait, stand, 4 paws on the floor, hand touches or chin rests are all some behaviours that can replace repetitive sitting.
