Restless Minds

Topic: Similarities between dogs and children

In this weeks dialogue, James and Sundance will work out some typical behaviors seen in dogs and children. Sundance will ask a series of relevant questions and James will provide answers.

Sundance: Hi James. I am glad to be working with you again. I have some questions from some friends that maybe you can answer. The first question I have for you is from my newest friend Bumpkin, a female bloodhound. Don’t let the name fool you into thinking she has no class, because she has a lot to offer.

Bumpkin would like to know why children are so restless. Her owners have a couple of children who are up late most evenings. She cannot figure out why they would rather spend time on their computers, jumping on the bed, or talking loudly than sleeping when the sun goes down.

James: This is a moral and social conundrum faced by many parents. I believe most of this could be solved with guidance, prevention and balance. Owning a dog is a lot of work, just like having children. You must provide mental and physical challenges for both, as well as a balanced home. If not, you are setting yourself up for failure. Exposing your dog to new situations and sustaining leadership will uphold a dog's sense of balance and provide guidance.

I am not an expert on children, but I have spent many years learning from them. I do feel at liberty to say that children today are not challenged. They are given electronic devices at an early age and left to figure them out themselves. This alone is frustrating and detrimental to their growth. Children as well as dogs need guidance. Not toys! Indeed, most parents believe toys will equip children with the know-how and ability to survive in our current tech-world, but you and I both know Mother Nature will have her way in the end.

To address Bumpkin's question further: I like to begin the day in a calm manner. The inner dialogue I have with myself sets the tone for the rest of my day. I do not give off restless energy. Instead, I provide a stable mind. My first chore of the day is always to drink a little water after getting up. This is followed by a little stretch to warm and circulate positive blood flow. I than proceed to put on clothes appropriate for exercise and the climate. Next, I walk over to you. I do my best not to get you excited, otherwise I would be sending you the wrong message and your behavior would instantly change. Right?

Sundance: Yes. I see where you are headed. Had you begun walking over to my leash and collar and talking to me animatedly, I would become excited. And then if I had to wait, had their been no instant gratification, my excitement would transfer into a restless state, thus throwing my mental stability way out of whack. The energy and strategy you provide is key.

James: Your friend Bumpkin, she has a strong nose and super prey drive. Her ability to track and search for items is hands-down one of her greatest assets. When an owner invests in a breed like hers, they must do their homework and research a bloodhound’s temperament. To prevent Bumpkin from growing restless, her owner must put forth time and plenty of patience to truly tap into the essence of a bloodhound. Otherwise, they will never see Mother Nature at work and have a negative opinion of this breed. Lastly, they will lose out on having a true friend!