Dogs Internalize Human Strife

By Debbie Foster

Is your dog around when you quarrel with a family member? Have you ever noticed their reaction? Being in the heat of the moment, it's easy to forget you have a witness watching the argument unfold, and it does have an impact in your pup. Even disciplining your kids loudly can have an adverse impact.

Veterinary behaviorists indicate that dogs typically produce cortisol in their systems to survive short-term stressful situations. However, when humans argue, your dog doesn't understand what's going on and feels helpless. Should that kind of helplessness continues, it could result in long-term cortisol exposure.

Long-term cortisol exposure has many ill effects for your precious pooch. These may include impairment of the immune system, stunted growth, hypertension and a wasting away of muscle mass. Also, you may see behavioral changes in your furry friend. Things like aggressiveness, anxiousness and destructiveness have been noted. You would certainly find it more difficult to do any training sessions with your pooch should these behavioral changes occur.

So the best thing is not to argue in front of your pooch. However ideal, probably not reality. There are a few steps you can take to lessen any adverse impact your dog feels to our lesser side of human behavior.

If you know words are going to be exchanged, remove your pooch to another area before it starts. If one just breaks out, take a moment to move your dog to another room. In either of these circumstances, take along a favorite toy to keep your dog occupied. If you don't realize your have a furry witness until the quarrel ends, then be sure to get her moving right after. Spend time playing with her or take her for a walk.

Dogs are much like human children in that they react to adult behavior. You always hear that children see and internalize what their parents do. It's not much different with our furry faithful companions.

An animal advocate, Debbie Foster owns http://www.petbedsunlimited.com where you'll find a wide selection of quality pet beds, dog crates, dog carriers, dog pens, cat beds, cat carriers, large dog beds, pet strollers and more.