Five freedoms of the dog

I think no one will argue with the fact that a dog cannot behave normally in abnormal conditions. Accordingly, in order for the pet to behave normally, it is necessary to provide him with these conditions. But the trouble is that everyone has different ideas about what dogs need.

In the photo: the five freedoms of a dog are the key to her happiness

In the meantime, the international concept of animal welfare has already been developed – the so-called 5 freedoms. This is not some unattainable paradise, but just a necessary minimum. But if this minimum is not provided, the dog will behave “badly”.

What is included in the 5 freedoms of dogs?

Freedom from hunger and thirst

The dog, as you probably guess, needs to be fed. And every day. And (adult dog) 2 times a day. And a puppy – even more often, depending on age.

The food must be suitable for your dog. And the amount of food should be sufficient, but not excessive. The dog must have clean, fresh water available at all times.

Freedom from discomfort

The dog in the house should have its own place where, if desired, it can retire and be sure that no one will disturb it. The place should not be located on the aisle, not in a draft, and be comfortable in itself. Ammunition must be tailored to a specific dog and humane. 

Freedom from injury and disease

Of course, if the dog is sick, this does not mean at all that you are a bad owner. But a good owner differs from a not-so-good one in that he will notice the deterioration in the dog’s well-being in time and provide him with the necessary treatment.

Also, do not forget to take preventive measures in time (vaccination, anthelmintic, etc.)

Pictured: Freedom from injury and disease suggests that the dog needs timely and competent treatment.

Freedom to exercise species-typical behavior

The dog should be allowed to be a dog, not a cat, an interior decoration or a plush toy.

It’s normal for a dog to explore new places, learn scents, and socialize with other dogs (as long as it’s not aggressive towards them, of course). If the dog is aggressive towards relatives, it makes sense to work with this.

By the way, barking is also normal behavior if, for example, a dog barks at the doorbell. You can teach her, for example, to calm down on command, but this is an additional option that is not included in the basic package.

In order for a dog to feel like a dog, it is necessary to walk with it. With any dog, regardless of size, and at least 2 hours a day. Giving her the opportunity to explore the world.

Freedom from grief and suffering

The dog should not suffer from boredom or undue stress. The goal of the owner is to provide the right balance for your pet between predictability and variety of experiences. A strong roll towards both boredom and overload will result in behavioral problems.

The dog needs to be trained, but the classes should be interesting to her and the training methods should be humane.

The dog should be able to play: both with the owner and independently – with toys. Now there is a wide variety of toys that you can offer your pet. By the way, you can make toys yourself.

Pictured: freedom from grief and suffering means obligatory dog ​​play

Let me emphasize once again: the five freedoms are not some sky-high conditions. This is a necessary minimum, and the task of the owner is to provide it.

How are behavioral problems and violations of the dog’s five freedoms related?

The five freedoms directly affect a dog’s behavior. 

Incorrect and / or irregular feeding of the dog leads to health problems. In addition, if the balance of energy consumption and physical activity is not respected and a surge of energy occurs when the dog is left at home alone, do not be surprised that he trashes the apartment.

If, for example, an ulcer or gastritis is not treated, or the dog has a lack of trace elements, he may gnaw on things at home or swallow inedible objects.

If the dog does not have his own place or it is located inconveniently, the dog will show nervousness.

If walking the dog, not allowing it to interact with other dogs, or leaving it alone for long periods of time without providing toys or treats to chew, lick, or vomit is not enough, the dog will find its own entertainment.

Pictured: Violating the Five Freedoms Often Leads to Problematic Dog Behavior

If the owner intimidates the dog, his return causes ambivalence. The dog becomes more and more nervous, excited, runs and grabs things.

If inhumane ammunition and ineffective punishments are used, the dog lives with the feeling that the world is unpredictable and dangerous and becomes nervous and aggressive. 

However, if you provide the dog with 5 freedoms, many behavioral problems are solved as if “by themselves”, without additional effort on your part. Surprising but true.