Should A Single Owner Dog Be Trained to Be Sociable?

There are many instances in which a dog has a single owner. This is the person whom he trusts and loves, and to whom he is attentive and loyal. These can include guard dogs, service dogs, or even simply a dog who belongs to a person who lives alone. While this type of loyalty is impressive, and can also be necessary, there are often times when the dog must be around other people or other animals. It can create uncomfortable situations for both the dog and its owner.

In most cases, it is a good idea for the dog to be taught how to interact with others. Depending upon the particular circumstances, most dogs need to be trained to not bite or become overly aggressive, nor to be fearful around other people and other animals. Even in instances of guard dogs who are meant to protect their owners, aggression can occur when it is not appropriate.

In some instances, a single-owner dog can be trained by its owner to be appropriately sociable. In others, it can require such a delicate balance in training that it would best be done by a professional dog trainer who has experience in dealing with special circumstances. While an average, healthy adult may have very little difficulty in training his dog to interact in a pleasant manner, a person who owns a guard dog or a service dog could find it relatively impossible.

Regardless of the particular circumstances, it is rarely in a single-owner's best interests for his dog to be either terrified of people or to wish to attack anyone he sees. While you would not want a dog whose primary purpose is guarding your home to become overly friendly, it is also unlikely that you would want a neighborhood youngster to become seriously injured simply because your dog has never been around people and does not know how to act around them. Accidents do happen; and a dog who has not been trained to not become aggressive without reason can be like an accident waiting to happen.

Having a dog who is loyal to you can be quite a joy; but it is also important to take the safety of others into consideration. Your dog can be trained to not display unwarranted aggression-- and that training could save someone's life.