Environment: More Than Just a Yard
When we think about a dog’s environment, most people picture the house and backyard. But a dog’s environment is so much more. It includes:
- The places we take them (parks, trails, neighborhoods, stores)
- The people in the home and how often visitors come by
- Other dogs or animals in their space
- The wider physical location (coastal, central plains, mountains, city)
Every dog comes into our lives with a genetic blueprint shaped by hundreds of years of breeding for very specific purposes.
Genetics Meets Environment
Take a few examples:
- 🐑 Great Pyrenees were bred to guard sheep and goats, thriving in wide open pastures with room to roam for miles at a time.
- 👑 Maltese were bred to be lap companions, staying close and watchful with their people.
- 🦁 Rhodesian Ridgebacks originated in the plains of Africa, bred to hunt large game across long distances.
So what happens when we bring these unique genetic programs into a modern, urban environment?
Some dogs adapt easily. But many—especially guardian breeds, herders, and gundogs—struggle with the mismatch. The lack of space, limited exercise, constant stimulation of cars, people, and noise can take a toll on their nervous systems. The result? Anxiety, reactivity, fear, or even aggression.
Matching the Lock and Key
As pet parents, we can’t change our dog’s genetics—but we can design an environment that helps them thrive.
At home:
- 🌱 Create a sniff garden with dog-safe plants to explore.
- 🕳️ Build a digging spot or add a doggie pool.
- 🧩 Design mazes or obstacles with elevated surfaces for your dog to climb and perch on.
How you set up your yard or home will depend on your dog’s breed and needs.
Beyond the yard:
- 🐾 Explore dog sports suited to your dog’s heritage.
- Huskies may love cani-cross or bike mushing.
- Herders can learn to herd balls or play dog soccer.
- Many dogs—of all breeds—find joy and success in mantrailing and scent work, tapping into their natural scenting abilities.
Environment: A Cornerstone of Welfare
When we think about our dog’s overall well-being, we often focus on diet, training, and exercise. But environment is a vital piece of the puzzle. By making small, intentional changes, we can better align our dog’s daily life with their genetics—unlocking calmer, happier, and more fulfilled companions.