Dogs are amazing creatures that are highly social and intelligent. They possess several instinctual behaviors that can be used to our advantage in training, behavior modification, and enhancing our relationship with them.

Knowing about innate dog behaviors and tendencies can help dog owners create a better environment for their furry companions and help their furry friends become well-adjusted, happier beings. Here are five instinctual behaviors of dogs and how to utilize them.

1. Pack Mentality

The pack mentality is one of the critical instinctual behaviors that dogs adopt from their wolf ancestors. In the wild, wolves live in packs and have to learn how to interact with each other to survive.

Dogs have carried on this instinct, and it is why they attach so quickly to their human family members. Owners can use this instinctual behavior to their advantage by creating a sense of belonging and safety for their dogs.

You can use positive reinforcement such as treats, petting, and reward-based training to build a bond between you and your dog.

Spending time with your dog and including them in family activities is a simple yet effective way to help your dog develop this instinct.

2. Hunting Instincts

Since the dawn of time, dogs have been used as hunting companions, and it is why they display a strong hunting instinct.

Dogs tend to chase after things that move like squirrels or rabbits, and this behavior can, in some cases, be problematic when it comes to training them. However, with proper training and exercise, owners can channel their pup’s hunting instincts in a positive direction.

You can create hunting games for them by hiding treats and toys around the house or in the yard. This activity will allow your dog to use their sense of smell and hone their mental and physical abilities.

It is a great bonding activity that your dog will enjoy, and it strengthens the relationship between you two.

3. Place-seeking Instincts

Dogs are creatures of comfort, and they prefer to have a designated spot they can retreat to in times of stress. This instinctual behavior is still present in dogs and is why many can become uncomfortable when in unfamiliar places.

Owners can use this behavior to help their dogs feel more relaxed and comfortable in new environments.

You can create a designated area, such as a corner of the room or a dog bed, where your dog can retreat to when feeling anxious or overwhelmed.

It is an easy way to help your dog find comfort and establish a more profound sense of security around your home.

4. Herding Instincts

Herding is another instinctual behavior that dogs possess. It can be observed in certain dog breeds such as the Border Collie or Australian Shepherd. Their natural inclination to round up and guide other animals can be put to use in a variety of ways.

You can channel this behavior by using games such as fetch or hide-and-seek to train your dog to retrieve items or seek out people. In this way, you can utilize their natural herding instinct to teach them specific behaviors.

5. Protective Instincts

Dogs are known for their natural instinct to protect, and this behavior goes back to their days as wild canids who had to keep their pack members safe from danger.

Although nowadays, dogs are typically not in the same threatening environments as their ancestors were, they still retain this protective instinct, especially towards their human family members.

You can use this instinctual behavior to your advantage by allowing them to guard your home and keep an eye on you and your possessions. However, you should be careful; excessive aggression or unprovoked biting can be dangerous and should be rectified.

You can train your dog to be protective in a safe and healthy way by providing them with socialization, early training, and positive reinforcement.

Conclusion

Dogs have been human companions for more than 10,000 years and, in that time, they’ve developed many innate behaviors. These natural tendencies can be nudged in specific directions through training and the right environment.

By utilizing these instincts, you can create a happier, healthier, and harmonious relationship with your furry companion.