Let’s be realistic and not expect our dogs to shield us from armed thieves. The primary use of a guard dog is to bark when strangers are around and alert you so you can take action.

Guard Dog in Rural Kenya

MYTH

“Chained dogs are better watch dogs than free-roaming dogs”

TRUTH

First of all, it is ILLEGAL to keep a dog permanently chained or confined in a box.

A dog’s natural behaviour is to have periods of activity and rest throughout the day and night, just like humans do. A dog will sleep a certain amount of time and will then want to run and play, investigate the perimeters of his territory and mark his boundaries. If there are strangers, he sounds a warning by barking. He will also react to intruders who cross his marked boundaries, even if he is resting!

Just like people, dogs are mammals that feel a range of emotions, such as happiness, sadness, pain, fear and anger. They suffer when mistreated, sick or imprisoned.

RESULTS OF SUCH MYTHS

Myths like the above result in untold suffering of the dog and angry owners as the dog is seen as unwilling to ‘perform his job’. Often the results are:

1. Frustrated and unpredictable behaviour

• A dog that is unable to mark territory will be scared and insecure.
• A dog which has ‘rested’ all day will be hyperactive and unpredictable.

2. Depression and unhappiness because the dog:

• Is lying in his own dirt.
• Doesn’t know his pack (family) and is therefore unable to bond.
• Lacks interaction and affection. He is lonely and bored.

3. Curtailed instincts and a lack of (or bad) training can result in a dangerous dog and can lead to:

• Death or injury of a person or other animal
• Death of the dog (euthanasia)
• Getting a new dog and restarting the same cycle

Have you found this useful? Do you know someone who can benefit from this information?

Please feel free to give them our free flyer – click  on GUARD DOGS: MYTH VS TRUTH