From Love to Lack: How Modern Lifestyles are Neglecting Our Pet’s True Needs

In today’s digital age, social media is flooded with videos that showcase interactions between dogs and humans in ways that often seem playful or amusing—hand-feeding, startling dogs for a reaction, or misinterpreting a growl as a “smile.” These clips go viral, drawing millions of views and likes, which leads many people to believe that these are normal or even ideal ways to bond with their pets.

But here’s the truth: what we perceive as fun and games often causes stress in our furry friends. Mimicking human behaviours or subjecting our pets to pranks disrupts their understanding of the world, sometimes triggering fight-or-flight responses. Unlike humans, dogs don’t comprehend that something is “just a joke.” The more we expect them to perform or entertain, the more we jeopardize their emotional stability.

This brings us to a critical point: Are we truly taking care of our pet’s needs, both physical and emotional? Or are we, unknowingly, neglecting them under the guise of affection and entertainment? Here’s what our canine companions truly require to thrive.

Unlocking the Canine Code – Understanding the physical requirements of your furry friend 

Every pet has specific physical needs that are often influenced by breed, age, and lifestyle. The key to maintaining a happy, healthy dog is understanding and fulfilling these needs appropriately. Some breeds, like Retrievers, have a natural urge to fetch and carry objects, while others like Indie dogs enjoy long walks and exploring new environments. Walking alone is not enough—your pet needs to engage in activities that align with his instincts. By fulfilling these instincts, we allow our pet to express himself, preventing pent-up energy that can lead to behavioural problems.

This doesn’t mean letting your furry friend act on every impulse, such as encouraging aggressive behaviours. Instead, understand your pet’s natural tendencies and provide safe, structured outlets. Properly training your pet from the outset prevents issues down the road, and a well-exercised pet is far less likely to act out.

Pro Tip –If you’re unsure about what kind of activity your pet enjoys most, observe how he responds to different types of play. Does he seem more excited by chasing balls, solving puzzles, or exploring new environments? Tailor his exercise routines based on these observations.

Dangers of under-and over-exercising

It’s important to strike a balance. Too little exercise, especially for high-energy breeds, can lead to frustration and poor behavior. On the other hand, excessive exercise particularly for puppies or older dogs, can result in joint problems, exhaustion, or even behavioural issues from overstimulation. For instance, puppies should have age-appropriate play to prevent stress on their growing joints, while senior dogs may benefit from low-impact activities like swimming or gentle walks.

Beyond the Bark – Taking care of their mental well-being 

Just as humans crave stability, so do dogs. They thrive in environments where they feel safe and where their needs for security and routine are consistently met. If your home is chaotic or stressful—yelling, frantic movements, or unpredictable schedules—your pet will mirror that anxiety, often resulting in behavior issues like frustration-based reactivity.

Here’s how to provide mental enrichment –

• Enrichment toys – Toys that satisfy instincts and challenge your pet to solve problems. You can also get treat-dispensing toys for your pet.
• Scent work – Dogs rely heavily on their sense of smell. Games like hiding treats around the house or yard, and having your pet “hunt” for them, are a great way to engage his brain.
• Training him for new skills – Teaching your pet new tricks or reinforcing commands helps him think and learn. This isn’t just about obedience—it’s about giving your furry friend the chance to use his brain productively.

Respecting your pet’s personal space is equally important. While he may show affection and seek attention, keep in mind, that he also needs independence. Constant petting or interacting can be overstimulating. Giving your pet time to rest and not invading his personal space allows him to recharge and, in the long run, makes him more affectionate and emotionally stable.

Happy Tails with trust and self-regulation

From the moment you bring your puppy home, he looks up to you for guidance. Puppies don’t understand why they chew on everything during teething or why certain noises frighten them. This is a crucial time for building trust and teaching him to navigate the human world. Grooming, feeding, and walking aren’t just daily tasks—they are bonding moments. If you outsource these to others, you may miss the opportunity to establish a deep connection with your beloved. Over time, your pet may become more attached to the person who regularly fulfills these needs, so be present in these everyday routines.

Dogs also need to learn the ability to self-regulate. Contrary to popular belief, hyperactivity in dogs is often the result of overstimulation. A dog who lives in a highly stimulating environment—a household full of yelling, constant activity, or no designated quiet time—can become overwhelmed. Over time, this leads to behavioural problems. Training your pet to handle stress in different environments, with proper socialization and exposure to various stimuli, can create a well-adjusted and balanced pet.

Breaking down the myths of pet parenting

Many modern pet parents fall into the trap of wanting to be perceived as “good” dog owners, but this can lead to mistakes that negatively impact their pet’s behavior.  Some limiting beliefs increase behavioural issues –

• Not allowing your pet to sniff visitors. Dogs use their sense of smell to process new people and environments. Denying this instinct can create anxiety.
• Making too many people interact with your pet (over-socialization) without regarding his personal space.
• Failing to correct behavior in front of guests. Consistency is crucial in training, even when others are present.
• Misinterpreting playful behavior as mischief. Often, when a dog barks or chews on household items, there is an underlying reason. Learning to read your pet’s body language is essential to understanding his needs.
• Viewing dogs as inherently “smarter” than humans. While dogs are incredibly perceptive, they don’t learn through testing or trial by fire. They need patient teaching and guidance.

A New paws-pective on pet parenting

Our pets rely on us not just for food and shelter but for emotional and physical fulfilment. Pet parenting requires understanding, patience, and the ability to read their signals accurately. By fostering an environment where they can safely express their instincts and feel secure, we’re not just raising pets—we’re nurturing loyal companions who thrive under our care.

(Chetna Malik – Canine Trainer and Behaviour Specialist, Member – International Association of Canine Professionals – USA; Founder, Unleash Dog Academy, Faridabad)