The Problem with Treating a Dog Like a Pet | Kim Brophey | TEDxUNCAsheville

[@robinwiley7166]

My parents were both farm people and I was taught by them that animals must be given time to approach us not the other way around. In my 65yrs of life have never been bitten by a dog. I also work with children on the autism spectrum. I find the respect that I was taught as a child for animals is till the same respect for all living beings.

[@caradu9973]

Robin Wiley maybe that's where I got my respect for animals at a young age I had a lot of experience on farms yep taught to respect animals

[@herahagstoz6934]

Same! Body language, environment, and patience is key in all safe interactions with animals wild or domestic. You will get educated in one way or another and it is astonishing how many millions of people have no clue about this. The impulse seems to be fear or aggressiveness; I am over you, you are my prey or I am afraid of you, please don’t hurt me...usually both approaches get a negative response.

[@Docinaplane]

I was running along a country road when suddenly I was attacked by three pit bulls. I was bit. Fortunately my martial arts training saved my life, and I held on till some car came along so I could get away from there. And no, I didn't try to run away. I did nothing to provoke the dogs. What's respect got to do with that??

[@jeniwatkins3297]

@@Docinaplane you were not the caretaker or "owner" of those dogs. So not a great analogy. She's referring how to treat dogs, especially your own but, to always respect any dog/animal. It sounds as if the owner of those dogs had not been caring and lovingly trained them. Had they, you would not have been attacked!

[@Docinaplane]

@@jeniwatkins3297 No, I think the owner trained them to fight, and then when he was done with them, turned them loose and abandoned them on that road. Then I just happened to come along. Bad day for me, worse day for them.

[@garypederson2767]

I hired a dog trainer for just one session. My very sensitive dog was a mess after she left our house. Gentle training has worked very well for my dog. Kim said "breed matters" and that is SO true. Don't get a herding dog if you live on a tiny inner city lot! I have also learned by experience that rescue dogs are more appreciative - they know they were rescued.

[@infamyinfamy]

I dunno, I cracked up laughing the other week, watching someone walking their American Foxhound through our urban neighborhood. The owner was really embarrassed by him howling/barking at everything. The owner didn't understand the dog was just doing his job...look I've found a car, look I've found a human, look I've found a hedge. Top entertainment.

[@jonathanjones635]

What? Gary, you can definitely get a herding dog in live in the inner city, it is TIME not space that is important. I live in a studio apartment with a border collie and she is very happy and gets lots of regular exercise and skills training (I am a professional dog trainer). She is just as happy as my aussies were on 10,000 acres so like, your comment is wrong, but said with good intent. Most people who live in the inner city don’t have the time to spend with a high energy breed

[@garypederson2767]

@@jonathanjones635 I agree with you. However, most people that I know who have such breeds don't properly exercise them. As a trainer you understand the dogs needs and have met the dogs needs. I'm not saying ALL owners of herding breeds don't exercise them appropriately although many I am aware of do not.

[@pamdiamond7555]

@@garypederson2767 my

[@Here4TheHeckOfIt]

I love this. You paid attention to your dog and intuited that your dog is sensitive. Some people just want a dog that just obeys and have no real interest in how they actually experience their lives.

[@kelseymathias3881]

Bless you Kim Brophey! 🧡

[@louloubell6586]

I have a bordercollie x kelpie and he's just such a character. He's 8 months old and has just stopped wanting to go out at night. He was doing it just to have extra attention. Whilst I appreciate that I now don't lose 3 hours sleep every night when he wakes me up and I can't get back to sleep, I would never, ever lock my dog in a "crate" just to make my life easier. It is so wrong to me to lock a dog in a cage. Circuses had to stop having animals in cages because it was cruel, why is it ok to lock a dog up?

[@freshstrt3140]

I really appreciate the message, and whole-heartedly agree, but I found the lecture very difficult to listen to. But thank you very much for making this message your life's work. It is so important and needed. I'm deeply grateful.

[@myopinionwhileIcanstillhaveone]

The animals on factory farms and in slaughterhouses feel too. They are scared and mutilated. We should respect all animals.

[@jilligain3409]

rozynmike couldn't agree more

[@LITTLEMUSTANGFILLY]

"Factory farms" Are not the torture shows you think they are and the bad ones are not as common as the media would have you believe. Themedia are out to get their next story. They want something dramatic to keep viewers watching so, they take things out of context and twist it to make it look scary. Why don't you ask to go on a tour of an industrial scale farm. If you still hold the same opinion afterwards that's fine but at least you will have it because of what you saw with your own eyes not because of what you were spoon fed by a drama hungry media.

[@scorpionshape]

exactly what I was thinking

[@carey1121]

LITTLEMUSTANGFILLY I There's countless footage and evidence of cruelty going on in factory farms. This has nothing to do with the scaremongering media. Do you think being forced into a gas chamber with Co2 burning your insides out to death is not torturous?

[@myopinionwhileIcanstillhaveone]

LITTLEMUSTANGFILLY I've been to multiple factory and family farms. I've seen pigs drink each other's urine at a family farm because they didn't have access to water in 113° degree heat. I've been to a chicken factory farm where chickens were eating each other and it was a "organic" "free range" farm. I had to wash my hair 5 times to get the smell out. I've been to big and small slaughter houses. Animals are deprived of water and food for more than 48 hours. Even people on death row get a last meal. These animals are scared and want to live. Their living conditions are worse than what you can experience from watching the news.

[@aaronnelson6699]

I'd like to examine the stranger scenario at 5:00. I see people do nearly the same thing to infants and toddlers. Generally the person is a friend of the parents, but to the child, he/she is a complete stranger. "Oh my gosh! Look at you! So adorable! Aww, is somebody shy? Come here!" Some kids like the attention; others do not. I'm not saying this is good or bad. I just want to point out the similarity.

[@ultravioletpisces3666]

Very true

[@bowiekung9161]

too true. and the touching part... we feel it's ok to just touch a child's head, hair, pick them up, etc. the same respect we have for adults should translate to children. they're not cute objects we can do whatever we want to

[@TrumanGN]

This leaves no doubt that what I have long believed is true: Most people should not own dogs because they do not truly respect dogs.

[@darkapothecary4116]

My dog cost me over 8 year nutrition knowledge

[@cristianobrayden8712]

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[@enochmarco448]

@Cristiano Brayden instablaster :)

[@cristianobrayden8712]

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[@sinetteiversen9978]

Absolutely.Respect is everything.If you dont respekt other creatures,do cannot expect to be respected

[@mitchryder9891]

My dog is abusing me. He constantly wants me to go get him food and refuses to clean anything. Walks right in the house and don't even wipe his feet. Always wants to go in the car but never offers to pay for gas or anything. The list goes on

[@jonathanjones635]

I love this comment

I get that from my dog as well .I had to put my foot down when he wanted me to wear the collar. Now he wants a dog sweater made by Nike .He won't wear puma because of the cat logo

[@adorablyadorable5665]

@@Threaopolieze sounds like it doesn't it?......a good description.

[@my2centz545]

Have you seen the video on utube where the dog does all the household chores, wish my dog did chores 😜

[@daisylu5101]

@@my2centz545 Would you please find us the link? 🐕‍🦺🐩🦮 Someone told me about it also. I think a lot of us would love to watch it. Thank you. Greetings from California and blessings 💜 to all of you on this forum.🙋🏼‍♀️

[@donnale3881]

My dog and I went to puppy school, he loved learning. The first thing our trainer taught us was respect, and the importance of dignity. Never once was there pushing, pulling or degrading in any way. My dog and I learned to communicate with each other, a mutual respect. He lived for 17 happy years, and because we learned how to communicate, I was able to keep him safe.

[@David-wg7iq]

I've only been bit by breaking up dogs fighting...

[@DougZaga]

@@David-wg7iq Am I missing something? Your comment makes no sense in addition to the OP.

[@jennymcmillin5668]

Donna E Beautiful. You were a truly good companion for her. I home cats. I never say in their owner; I’m not. In their person. Sounds like you lived into being your dog’s person friend. Good on you!

[@David-wg7iq]

@@DougZaga I think you've got it. I've been had.

[@DougZaga]

@@David-wg7iq LOL...I just can't understand your comnment in relation to her message. Maybe I am missing something?

[@v.a.3058]

Totally agree! The only "training" I did with my dogs was when they where puppies, crate training. Once they learned you don't pee or poop inside the house the rest was a spontaneous development. I spend plenty of time talking to them as if they where children. I use simple, concise and most important consistent words and phrases for specific actions or things. For example, "Let's go night night" they get up and go to their beds...automatically without fuss or complaint. "Who wants to go for a ride?" and they drop whatever they are doing and wait by the door to get in the convertible. "Hey get off the couch" (in a normal tone) and they get off the couch. "Who wants a treat?!" and they shift to overdrive to come and get it as fast as possible. When they are in the yard, it's a big yard, I whistle the same every time and they make their way to the kitchen door and so on and so on. Dogs are so much smarter than people give them credit for....they are definitely smarter than some/most people! Their range of emotions is the same as humans. They can be happy, angry, SAD!, scared, confused, elated and so much more. One day I was in the driveway fixing my mower, I had my tools out and hands under the hood while Chuck and Rudy sat and watched me the whole time. A screwdriver fell and began to roll away and before I could walk over to pick it up Chuck stood up, walked a few steps and brought it back to me. I did not have to command him to do anything but he knew that I was busy and would appreciate his help. That day, not long ago, I realized the connection with my dogs is as profound and complex as any relationship I have with humans. That is why it's so important treat them with love and consideration because that is how they will treat you.

[@sandracaputo2917]

That is so wonderdul!!!

[@smalldogsolutions3844]

To me, that is training. Teaching, explaining, sometimes showing by example, has always worked for me, and has transformed the behaviour of dogs I helped.

[@troiaguirre9747]

Mine do the same. They know when they are going to be told to get in their kennel when I lock the back door, They actually wait at the door of the kennel, until I give the command to go in. They also run to their beds when I tell them its time to go night, night. My dogs also know when I have some time to play and they bring me the toys to play fetch. They know when they might be going for a walk when I put on my exercise sneakers, and so I try not to get them excited by asking if they want to go for a walk only until I'm really ready to go. I don't want to break their hearts if I can't really go. They get so excited when I do finally let them know. I'm just always so amazed that they care about little old me when I get home or sit on the floor so they can jump in my lap and force my hand to pet them.

[@sarahmunson1778]

Absolutely, all of this. And the same goes for pigs, cows, chickens, turkeys, fish - the animals westerners consider "food."

[@linh811]

British and British trainers consider crate/kennel cruel and supposedly never use them

[@st3llarfae]

I've thought this for most of my life. My family has had several dogs, and I would watch my little sister pick them up and hug them and hold them against their will. They'd be squirming and struggling to get away and sometimes even start growling because they didn't want to be held down, even if my sister was "just trying to love them". And then I would watch as my parents got angry at the dog for growling or snapping. Animals have feelings, thoughts, wants, and make choices just like we do. Yes, there are differences in the way their brains work but that doesn't make their feelings are any less valid or less deserving of respect.

[@babbslab]

Kristen eh we feed them, clean up after them, give them a home. we can hug them if we want

[@anaturals4335]

@@babbslab, you're right, you can hug them since you are feeding them. However, a stranger does not feed them and should ask you if you or your dog minds if he/she wants to pet them. Also, children have to be thought to treat all animals with respect, including their families' fur-babies.

[@sarahmunson1778]

So true, and that also goes for pigs, cows, chickens, turkeys, fish - the animals humans consider mindless "food" animals too.

[@judyives1832]

@@babbslab Nope. The dog has a choice if it wants to be touched. It did not ask you to buy it. It has no responsibility to make you happy. You don’t demand that from a child or a dog. It was your choice to bring that child or dog into your life. You owe them respect. They are living creatures that should own their own emotions.

[@glenj.taylor2938]

@@babbslab I can't really tell if you're serious or joking. Either way, you are absolutely incorrect. Did you not watch the video or learn anything from what the presenter said in the video? Please learn more. It'll benefit not only you but everyone and everything else you encounter in life.

[@rawhideleather]

Unfortunately between 3 and 4 million dogs are euthanized here in the U.S. every year. Truly shameful and doesn't say much for us humans.

[@allanbrogdon7453]

My 5th grade teacher said "animals cannot think"I immediately said"yes they can".I had a dog save me from a kidnapping at 5.I probably wouldn't be alive if not for dogs.I am not yodas owner but his friend.14 and toothless half blind he will try to protect me against anyone or dog.I was ashamed I left him with my ex who neglected him.Never again.

[@lucyeron6511]

I have worked with animals for much of my life, I have been told "you talk dog". No, "I listen dog". I have raised puppies for the blind, the best I could do for those puppies is to permit them to become self-confident and self-disciplined. You can't force that on a dog, you have to permit them to get to that point. Each breed and each personality gets to that point in their own way. I have relied for years on a Service Dog to keep me alive. I always put her well being first, just as she has always put me first. People who have "pets" ask me how much do I charge to "train" their dog; my answer is nothing, but I do charge to train the person. You see the dog will do well in my home, but once they go back to the home they came from, many times they go back to what they learned from the people in that household. Most people don't even think about the fact that different breeds have different needs and personalities. Also, the same breed also have different personalities, like with humans, no two people or dogs have the same personality or needs. So if you want to be a good companion to your dog, please listen to them, they will tell you what they need and want.

[@vsrose]

Animals obviously don't use language to communicate, but they do communicate with their eyes, their responses, actions, and behavior towards people, things, food, etc. They also learn some human language/words and respond to it. And communicate with their voice through the sounds they make.

[@Neonmirrorblack]

Cat people seem to intrinsically already know this.

[@sunkissedheart347]

Awesome comment 👏 👌

[@Lilolindiriel]

Yes them and most english bull terrier "owners",,,I believe Storm owns us if any of us owns somebody in this family.

[@OfficialEDirty]

Good point.

[@lisaspikes4291]

I always let a new dog approach me. It’s better that way. And we always seem to get along. Dogs are different from humans, but we complement each other. With the dogs I’ve had, I was always able to bond well with them, and because of that trust, we are able to communicate easily. I’m aware of my dog’s reactions, and he’s aware of mine. We are best friends. Not “master” and “pet.” And I’ve always gotten my dogs from the pound. They are considered mutts. But I think mutts are the best!

[@patriciabowden1467]

Lisa Spikes I've always adopted you Lisa...well I've had two dogs & 3 cats from the pound and all of them have been great additions to family who had long healthy lives. Mutts are most definitely where it's at! I don't understand why purebreeding is even still a thing frankly except to satisfy the snobs...?

[@mrspeigel3593]

@@fallingalice2601 the eugenisist ideas of the AKC and human greed have done massive amounts of damage to dogs. The AKC is the canine Bureau of Racial purity really.

[@mrspeigel3593]

Yeah, I think of my dogs as trusty sidekicks not minions

[@jenk6895]

“Purebreds” are a myth. We simply breed them to look a certain way then call it “better”. It’s absolutely ridiculous.

[@kdk151]

How did you become all this? What schools did you go to? The problem is dogs who are not trained don’t end up well. They are the ones in elders that no one wants.

[@yarnpower]

Really good point that most dogs do not want physical touch from strangers, much like most people.

[@launabanauna8958]

yarnpower No it is not a good point, the woman in the video needs help.

[@aslmad1]

The example she gave was ridiculous and probably never happened, without the person being growled at. Peoole all know this.

[@ThisbeandPyramus]

I agree with you EXCEPT that I'd modify your statement to: "...many dogs do not want physical touch from strangers..." Some dogs do (especially when young) and some breeds are mostly made up of these types of dogs. The broader point is that people should stop forcing themselves on dogs they don't know. Ask the owner if the dog would appreciate a caress or if you're the owner say politely, "I'm afraid this dog doesn't enjoy touches from strangers"....etc. etc..

[@ThisbeandPyramus]

If you've ever lived in an urban environment and had a really attractive dog who didn't like strangers touching them - you wouldn't find that story far fetched. Strangers run up and force themselves on dogs all the time.

[@aslmad1]

ThisbeandPyramus oh brother, like I’m allows see dogs being molested...not. Enough already. We got bigger problems in the world

[@lucibjlb]

Kim Brophey is exactly correct. I'm a dog walker / pet sitter. I've also owned dogs my entire life. Dogs are pretty intelligent. In fact, they have the intelligence of a 3 or 4-year-old child. Dogs (like humans) must be treated with respect. Whenever I meet a new dog, I wait for him or her to approach me first. I've also learned that "closeness" takes time. It takes them time to get to know me, like it takes time for me to get to know them. It's based on trust and knowledge. I really wish people understood that dogs are very much like people. They have personalities, opinions, feelings...the list goes on and on. I'm glad she gave this talk. It's a long time coming.

[@PawsuasiveDogTeaching]

I thought this video was awesome. How ever I wish she would have stressed to get dogs proper teaching. A well taught dog is a very happy dog. The more you teach your dog the stronger the bond between you and your dog will be. And you do not need to cause pain to teach a dog. I personally do not use prong or shock collars or even choke chains. I prefer to have a harness on a dog when I teach them.

[@Jdjustsaying]

How do you feel about pigs who are as intelligent as dogs, most spend their lives in crates after having their teeth and tails removed without anesthetic?

[@floribundafloribunda9985]

@@Jdjustsaying And what about horses, who are as intelligent as dogs and pigs? Nobody cares about horses who are really tortured in polo games and races

[@ko7302]

Amen.

[@ko7302]

@@floribundafloribunda9985 uhhhh I know about 4 people that rescue horses just in my county alone.. .

[@theshimmering2064]

My dogs continually surprise me. As one example, I always give my dogs a dental treat to chew in the evening around the same time every night. But just yesterday I said to them something I've only said maybe one other time, "Stop bugging me for a treat. Go ask grandma to give it to you." My mother wasn't in the room or anywhere near us when I said it, but they barked in excitement and went running for her expecting she would give them the treat instead even though it's always been me. This was not a well worn phrase they knew, nor did I get out of my chair, which would have tipped them off that I was going to get them what they wanted. I wasn't even fully aware they knew the grandma reference, but apparently they do. But there's been a lot of this in our home, starting early on from when one dog was young and I'd say something - a sentence - that she fully understood and responded to. The one who does this the most is always staring at me, all day long listening to me talk or just watching me even when I'm not talking. It's like she's learning or studying.

[@awesomesmasher999ftw4]

My daughter puts the phone to my dog's ear. I say, "Grandma is coming up." The dogs run to the window and watch for me to come.

[@nitanice]

I very intentionally taught my dog hundreds of words and put them in many sentences. Once she learned the concept, I was amazed at how many more she began to understand. And I let her teach me how to understand her as well. Just one example: she'd sit in front of the fridge if she wanted something to eat. I'd ask her, do you want rice, potatoes, eggs, cheese, etc. If she wanted potatoes, she'd get up and spin around. If I asked her if she wanted a baked potato, she'd sit if she didn't want that. Then I'd ask if she wanted mashed potatoes and if that's what she wanted, she'd get up and spin around. In this way, she could ask for one slice of cheese or two or three or for scrambled eggs or boiled or fried. She could tell me if she wanted yogurt or ice cream and what kind of ice cream. If you treat them like they're a person who is able to make choices in the short lives they live and listen to what they tell you as well, life's pretty easy.

[@deepti1709]

The same thing is with my cats. One of cats learnt by herself that one of the collages that I have hanging around has my dad in it. She would go sit beneath it and meow at it if she wants to talk to my dad. Then I need to call up dad, put him on speaker and both of them chat away happily. My dog has also learnt the best way to get my attention. She knows I hate it if she does anything to my books. So she will go and stand next to the bookshelf and then look at me if I am giving her attention. If not, she will paw at the shelf, no attention even then, she will paw at one of the books, nothing, she will pull out the book, nothing even then, she put her snout on the book, her last resort it to take it in her mouth and start chewing. She doesnt go directly to chewing.. she gives me enough chances to start paying attention to her. Learnt it all by herself.

[@TheKim369]

My border collie understood 250 words or phrases when she was 11. I know it sounds like BS, but it's true. She's had "lessons" for words like come and sit and lie down and get down and be quiet and NO and rollover, but she'd learned the rest, mostly on her own. She knew the names of everyone in our household, she knew the names of each of her toys - ball was not rubber chicken, she knew the names of activities and understood to go to one door for ride in the car and another for go for a walk. She was the best dog I ever had and decades later I still miss her. But to anyone who wants one, please consider, they are herding dogs, they need to be kept busy most of the time. They are great for good, non chaotic, families who understand the dogs particular needs, not just for exercise, but also for intellectual stimulation and emotional compassion and connection. They are not a dog for single people who are unwilling to spend hours a day throwing a frisbee, or worse, must leave them home alone.

[@glad2bnlv]

We need to re-examine our relationship with animals in general. The dog crisis, the 3.5 million unwanted dogs annually, is a prime example and those are the animals we refer to as our "fur babies". As a species, we can do much better.

[@kristincaldwell6345]

Deborah Baird a

[@launabanauna8958]

Deborah Baird There’s nothing wrong with calling them “fur babies.” Just a term of endearment. The woman in the video is a loon.

[@gypsysoul9437]

Deborah Baird I agree with your statement and would like to add that as long as people are profiting by exploiting animals, they will continue to deny them of dignity and empathy thereby allowing animals to be misunderstood, dumped, abused and murdered all because humans have a superiority complex.

[@lornocford6482]

@@gypsysoul9437 I agree with you and Deborah Baird. It's sad that there are so many people who are so arrogant that they think they know how to treat an animal without the first bit of actual training themselves. It doesn't surprise me though. People treat their children as though they own them and don't need to find out how to have a respectful relationship with them.

[@Asmr_kungfu]

I hate the tern “fur baby’s”

[@bunille]

She's saying that you should treat dogs as family, not as ownership or something to toy around with.

[@sadiecoleman3477]

Why would you do both? Just treat animals with the same respect and kindness you would treat a person with. Their species does not determine the validity and value of their life. All beings are deserving of love, kindness, and respect. You do not “own” animals, they are your companions, your friends, your helpers, they are not things or toys, they are living beings and if you take up the responsibility of taking care of them you should take care of them to the best of your ability.

[@sadiecoleman3477]

Just treat them as family, there is no reason to ever treat them like things

[@bunille]

@@rdm3373 Of course you shouldn't take them unnecessarily on holidays and to theme parks lol, but by not toying around with them, I mean that by treating them as this play thing and vanity thing, you are not treating a dog like a dog, but some "cute cuddly animal" and it may as well be a plush at that point. They need their basic needs met, but also their attention levels shouldn't be too much or too little for the dog; the problem with many people is that they pick breeds by what they find cute, not by temperament or a mixture of both, and realise they're too hyperactive/lazy/etc. and then complain about the dog for doing something they naturally do/not doing something they shouldn't be doing. If someone doesn't like the way their dog behaves, then maybe with the hundreds of selections they could've picked from, they should've chosen wiser. You can technically "toy" with a hyperactive dog or a puppy as long as it's not engulfing them and you know to set boundaries as they grow up and become more lax, but for any other dog, "toying" is not playing, it's esentially treating them like a human baby. And by ownership, I mean treating your dog like it's a trophy and being vocal about it. Nobody likes a parent who has to tell everyone around them why their kid is "so amazing at sport", for example. Once and never again if it is such an achievement, and only with close friends? But I wouldn't want anyone to keep on telling people. Even if studies end up proving that none of this affects a dog much, it's still setting a bad example for children.

[@bunille]

@@rdm3373 I was talking more in-depth about what I meant in my first comment.

[@StarSong936]

Just to give a take off the title of this video, I have never treated any animal I was responsible for as a pet. All of the animals I've had were family. @6:27, I used to frequent a bar where one couple had a wolf. That wolf would come up to me and ask for belly rubs. The wolf was in charge of the interaction, and I always took my cues from her. If her owners called her back to them, I would signal the wolf to go to them. Note, a wolf is not a dog. If you treat them as a dog, you could wind up in a world of hurt very fast. I felt very privileged to have that level of trust. An add on to this, not about dogs, but cats. I was raised in part by a cat. I had 2 mothers, one was my biological mother, the other was a cat we called Miss Kitty. I helped Miss Kitty raise 2 litters of kittens every year, giving them their first hunting lessons, and teaching them how to interact with humans. Miss Kitty was with me every step of the way for about 14 years, before I left home and went into the military. She was 18 when she died. It frequently happened that she had her kittens on my bed, and I was the first human they interacted with, within hours of their birth. StarFire was my darling daughter. She was born in my storage shed, and abandoned by her mother as the runt of the litter. I took her in and bottle raised her. She used to sleep across my face at night. My room-mate at the time told me to kill her. He thought she would be too much trouble. About 2 months later, he admitted to me that he could not imagine what life would be like without her.

[@mkl5448]

Very well said, I hope the right people watch this and make the necessary changes.

[@nyteshayde1197]

This is called anthropomorphism. I don't train them as "pets", I train them for their own safety and I do so with kindness.

[@luv2charlie]

Erin Maurer love it!

[@RenegadeTimes]

Erin 100% correct. You think she grasps this ...

[@johnca6048]

spot on. I'm curious if this speaker even considered this. Her traumatic experience is the dogs.

[@mattguzda853]

This speech is weak and her perspective as well. Dogs came from wolves under the direct care of humans. We made them what they are and her stranger scenario apeals to how people would feel about the encounter not dogs. And thats her whole problem. Cheers

[@launabanauna8958]

Erin Maurer I concur, the woman in the video is a loon.

[@rmcd823]

Dear, I even won’t watch you. What a silly subject. Super leftist this is why is silly. I bet you will even start as a victim. Ugh!

[@devinarato69420]

Stroke?

[@eledhwenmare2403]

A good video. I work with livestock guardian dogs as partners. They help me earn a living. They go into danger every day to protect their flocks. I love them but I remember their needs and wants. I use dogs from a rescue that rehomes flock guardians abandoned by people who don’t understand the guardian’s needs or who sell a flock and shrug and walk away. Keep up your good work.

[@DebiRose062]

Bravo! In his youth my husband learnt to ‘break’ horses. As adults, when we obtained an ‘unbroken’ pony for our daughter, we ‘gentled’ him. We must learn to evolve the education of all of our animals - it also wouldn’t hurt to do the same for our human children too.

[@ultravioletpisces3666]

I read so many books as a kid where a young girl who never tried to "break" a wild horse, amazes the grown men when she gains the animals trust and doesn't try to dominate the animal.

[@arthurstrout8730]

I've shared most of my 65 years with dogs and cats. Nothing compares to the mindful application of mutual respect with our four legged friends. The simple act of allowing your "pets" to be themselves can provide ways to share the best of quality times. Your four legged friend will love you for it. - Learn to love them for who they are. Your respect will be appreciated and returned. Not so complicated when we give it some thought.

[@nowayjose3592]

Animal shelters are over run with dogs because people don’t put in the time to train their pets. So, they bite, are not housebroken, unsocialized, bark,...ect., becoming problems and once the puppy cuteness is gone and the owner tires of feeding the pet in the backyard, they are taken to the nearest shelter or set loose on the streets. Sorry, but while I agree harsh training techniques are not needed to train an animal I do not see where not training your pet is at all helpful as it does nothing to keep your pet safe nor give it any chance of having a loving home.

[@HickW]

I don't think the problem here is lack of training but lack of owners' interest in their dogs! E.g., do they walk their dogs 3-4 times a day, like you should? How far?

[@LL-vj5yp]

NoWay Jose 👏👏👏👏❤️

[@nicetomeetme5150]

I agree with you. I love all 5 of my dogs but a leash keeps them from being ran over etc. I want my dogs to live long. Training is neccesary

[@radamson1]

The dog she is describing, getting petted has never been socialized which in the animal world can be deadly if they get away from you.

[@kristinjayne6720]

She isn’t suggesting no training, rather looking at our own behavior while training and teaching.

[@mikeg9b]

I spent most of this video wondering, "ok, so what are you trying to say?" And I'm still not sure. I think part of her message is that dogs should not be our slaves, and I agree with that. But dogs are descendants of wolves who chose to live with humans. So, dogs and humans are meant to be together. And dogs are pack animals that expect a dominant leader at the top of the hierarchy. And I think it's obvious that that role should fall on the human. After all, the human provides the food and shelter.

[@ruthlomax8669]

What do you mean by dominant? We all need to be more careful of the terminology we use. The word dominant has all sorts of connatations bringing up images of punishment and intimidation which of course is not necessary nor is what actually happens in nature. Its usually a female that leads by example. She would be a strong character for sure and would stand her ground if challenged but the rest of the time she would be a bundle of fun or a teacher to the pack. We need to align with that image. Wolves in nature rather than in false groups determined by humans eg in a Zoo, show great respect and affection for each other as a family group would. Dissenting behaviour is dealt with as little vioence as possible. And its often the female who dishes it out. But this is a digression from the talk. She has not said dont train, dont discipline, dont correct. She is merely asking us to ;look deeper into the way we do it and our expectations of our dogs. She is asking us to fully realise that as sentient beings in their own right, and as we are as different to them as they are to us, that we consider how they ,ay be feeling to the best of our ability to interpret their behaviour and feelings. They are not robots. They cannot just be programmed because it would be more conveient to us if they were.

[@mikeg9b]

@@ruthlomax8669 Thank you for your input. I edited my post to reflect that the pack leader is not necessarily male. And I agree with everything you said in your reply. This video (which I haven't seen in a month) is still weird. I don't have a dog (or other pet), but most of the dog owners that I know treat their dogs as members of their family. The last time I dog sat for someone, one of their dogs slept in the bed with me and the other slept on the floor next to the bed. I still cherish my memories of that week with those dogs. I don't doubt that there is inter-species confusion at times, but since dogs evolved to be with people, it's probably pretty minimal.

[@ruthlomax8669]

@@mikeg9b Thank you for that polite reply, Michael. I am so glad you get my perspective. I have also ammended my post to reflect the change in your post.

[@WeSpeakAsianz]

When ppl go and touch a service dog..... humans can be idiots.

[@bgraysondds]

This talk added no new information on how to treat a dog as a respected recipient and source of affection instead of as a “pet”. The presenter complained a lot about how dogs are treated as pets but offered nearly no concrete recommendations regarding how to do the alternative. I waited patiently to hear her plan of “appropriate” behavior with our dogs, but was disappointed to hear very little about the subject other then blaming the pet industry and others.

[@jeansmith4858]

The touchy-feely trainers never have a concrete solution. They do, however, just ban aggressive dogs from their classes or tell the owner to put the dog down so their "success" stories shine through.

[@infamyinfamy]

@@jeansmith4858 Yeah I've been there, my dog wasn't even aggressive, just a rescue with bad manners around other dogs, but an angel with humans. The trainer wouldn't allow her into her class, labeling her a problem dog with behavioral problems. So I trained her myself, probably not as effectively as a class, but we got the basics down pat and she has lots of dog friends now. She was so eager to please me it really wasn't difficult.

[@moozerk1264]

So dogs are people now!?!?…Sheesh. What next…human and animal marriage!?! At this rate now it would not shock me.

[@geertmostrey3340]

As a certified dog trainer, both for domestic dogs as well as dogs used professionally to detect drugs, explosives, etc... I do not completely agree with this video. Dogs have different behaviors and instincts than humans, and our only way to interact correctly with them is to understand these behaviors and instincts and communicate with them in a way they understand. I cannot help but feel that this video basically says : let your dog be the way he is ( oh and by the way if the bites you, that's OK... It's a dog after all). This kind of approach will not make neither your dog nor yourself happy!

[@nicoleinman5563]

Thank you!! I just tried to say this exact same thing but wasn't nearly as eloquent.

[@luv2charlie]

Well said!

[@Bochi42]

Tl;dr: yeah there is a ton left out, it's largely an emotional appeal to get some people to rethink their relationship with dogs & is in no way a training guide & may encourage people who overly anthropomorphize their dogs. But I still think ther is some real good value in this talk. I think she is making a really good point about the individual self or personalities of dogs. As a trainer you likely know how to read a dog in a way that many of the people I've met at the dog park clearly don't. Doesn't take long to read the owners either, eh? I do think her presentation goes overboard or is heavy handed on one side of the issue without enough balance and nuance, but I think it's incredibly valuable as one of many sources. I live in an Army town & we get the goo-goo gah-gah I want something to just love me & look cute & to buy things for & post pics & the I need a manly aggressive fit dog to reflect myself types of dog owners who frequently dump their pets when they change posts or don't live up to their expectations. -She's not going to reach the men but maybe she could reach some of the women. You are 100% right that dogs are not humans, she's not saying they are. Far to few people I meet understand what dogs are telling them because they don't pay attention to non-verbal communication & don't understand how dogs see the world with their noses & communicate & that their natural drives are different from ours. I really think she could improve her presentation by more teaching of specifics. But I get the feeling that this is a intro vid of sorts to get women in particular to rethink their relationship with dogs & then have questions about Well how then should I .. There is the obvious difference between what you do, train dogs to serve for utility & what she is talking about as dogs as pets, though I imagine you do some of both. I applaud her efforts to say hey dogs aren't just pets & if you don't want one as a family member but as a stuffed fur baby, then you have no idea what you are doing. I have a couple of rescue dogs now and I have to be aware of how they react and what I know of their pasts & pay close attention to things that make them anxious and work on getting them comfortable with those things by not pushing them too fast to be how I want them to be. But I see so many horrible dog owners that think if they just dominate & beat their dog for something maybe done hours ago that they'll have the perfect dog & trying to convince them otherwise is impossible. I learned from watching my Grampa handle cattle. He knew each one and their relationships to each other & handled them effortlessly but with great attention. ;) Tl;dr: yeah there is a ton left out, it's largely an emotional appeal to get some people to rethink their relationship with dogs & is in no way a training guide & may encourage people who overly anthropomorphize their dogs.

[@crotchet1586]

geert mostrey It was more nuanced than that; she was basically saying that every dog is an individual with its own personality and can't be put into a box because of or even regardless of a dogs breed or genetics or even simply because it's a dog. She's questioning and challenging the notion of what is meant by 'pet', 'ownership' and all the unconscious associations that we unknowingly have accepted and bought into unquestioningly; she is very strongly putting the onus and responsibility for the dog's behaviour back in the humans (owners) court and at the same time trying to raise understanding of just how unrealistic most dog owners expectations are.

[@cassafrasscubby460]

Funny, what I took away from this was to have more empathy for the expanse of a dog's mind and it's emotions. Instead of demanding it obey me.

[@endoalley680]

My dogs are members of the tribe.

[@ranchothedog]

yes!

[@yowsers6475]

This is a person who doesn't know much about dogs and is applying whatever unresolved troubles she's had in her life to dog's and other people.

[@akamaster09]

Why does everyone on TED have the same style dialogue...? Seems like they're following a guideline on how to speak

[@patrickjohn3323]

Ughh. I know. Tedx is supposed to be about new ways perceive the world, but all the talkers sound the same.

[@larrybarnes1794]

@@patrickjohn3323 I think it is because most of the speakers are giving serious, informative talks which do not require bells and whistles to keep the audience listening.

[@AprilMarieSanderson]

Yeah, it's called Oral Communication. I aced it so I recognize the style, as I communicate far more effectively than most.

[@johnmcguire4422]

Getting carried away to prove a “point” doesn’t make it valid. Nonsense is nonsense no matter how well expressed.

[@janissierra9412]

She is projecting her on feelings about being mistreated and abused pn to dogs. I balieve

[@benandrews252]

Aye. Even if she is correct, it is clear this is deeply personal to her.

[@xyzsame4081]

I do not know WHO has the mindset she describes. Most adults and teenagers are aware of the fact that dogs _could_ bite (or not like being touched). They ususlly ask the owner if it is allowed to touch. Parents teach their children that they shouldn't touch strange dogs. etc. Excessive barking is a sign for a problem, and growling should hardly be necessary. - but if children pester a dog and he growls (but does not bite) that is a quite healthy reaction. Or the dog just evade the children. An animal does not "feel objectified" - she projects human emotions on dogs - but they might not like it being touched even if they put up with it. Could cause them some short term stress, but if they can move thier body, they shake that off. Humans who have another level of consciousness would be bothered by the disrespect (it says something about the status they have - or do not have). That is no concern of any animal, they are not going to be traumatized. That said: there is no reason to cause an animal even a little bit of stress, and if approached slowly, many will accept your touch. you can see how they react if you get nearer, and there is no point in forcing your contact onto an unresponsive of slightly unwilling animal.

[@caligal3699]

Wow. I'm sorry she had such a rough start. However, treating a dog like a dog/pet IS respecting them and their boundaries. It is NOT approaching them at random. I had taken in an abused dog and got him as healthy as possible, and he had such as sweet face, mostly German shepherd, and some lady saw his sweetness and approached him and started petting him and got right in his face. He bit her in the face before I could stop her. She treated him like a human and not like a dog. Had she treated him and respected him as a dog/pet, he would have welcomed her adoration. Anyway this was very difficult to listen to. I hear her pain through her words about the dogs. I wish her the best. While I believe her intention is supreme, she is just not 100% correct.

[@aslmad1]

You are correct and kind as well. Well said

[@rowanwax]

If some random person walked up to me and started touching me or hugging me, I’d freak out, too. My experience says humans treat pets like how that lady treated your dog. Different perspective, same desire to interact that way with animals. ☺️

[@Bug-cp6lz]

No, that's the problem. That lady treated your dog like an object, like it was something that she could touch whenever she wanted to without permission. If she had walked up to a child on a street and started touching that and getting in their face, the parents would probably have gotten upset and possibly violent, or the cops could've been called. It's very scary when someone walks up to your child or to you without your consent. Your body is yours and yours only, some random person on the street isn't going to walk up to you and ask to touch you, but if they do, you have the option to walk away and get help. Dogs don't have that, and most people don't even ask to pet your animals before they just start touching. so what you said about that lady not treating your dog like a dog is true, she treated him like he was an inanimate object. Dogs are not pets, they are companions. (Also I'm not saying to not pet dogs, but if a dog does not want to be petted, don't do it. Respect their boundaries.)

[@iratakeuchi3031]

We do need to dominate our dogs though.. But in the way that dogs dominate over other dogs in a pack setting. If we aren't dominant, our dogs will get really anxious because they think they're supposed to be dominant but cannot. Dogs do like clear and consistent rules, but it is important to respect them of course.

[@soplim8632]

My dog’s feelings mean everything to me and I never forget them

[@cdonofrio2119]

I would rather listen to Cesar Millan. Dogs are pets and they want to know their place in the pack. Kim's approach seems to be a good way to have your dog run your house.

[@debbiehahn5622]

An amazing presentation. Finally, we are talking about dogs in the light we should have all along! Thank you!!!

[@33roses]

Word

[@george45620]

If you haven’t reached a deep understanding with your dog that he/she can be themselves yet know what’s right to do and what’s not,well is kind of sad.Dogs are actually very moral. But a depressed anxious and a misunderstood dog OR human won’t won’t necessarily be very moral. Being friends with your dog is better than being their master. I hope one day people will master the art of dog friendship and let go of the mindset of dog ownership

[@nicoleinman5563]

Total and complete anthropomorphism. 6 minutes in and I'm not even going to bother to finish this video. I'm not saying that some trainers aren't terrible or that some people are too rough or abusive towards dogs. But you can't project your human characteristics onto another species either. They are separate and distinct from you and have their own. If you want to understand an animal learn their characteristics, don't project yours onto them.

[@luv2charlie]

Nicole Inman well said!

[@Docinaplane]

"the attribution of human characteristics or behavior to a god, animal, or object."

[@RenegadeTimes]

NeverRing The Bell 100% agree. When humans have a terrible experience they often times come up with ways to deal with it. May be the case here. Life and death can stand with a dog that obeys you or one that doesn't. Some of her points really should be automatic for a think-before-you-act human. A thinking human reads the dogs manner and awaits for the dog to allow them to touch them. I never reach for somone elses dog. Once their dog comes to me he lets me know it's cool I respond. Your last sentence is pefect. "If you want to understand an animal learn their characteristics, don't project yours onto them."

[@ruthlomax8669]

And just where did these animal characteristics come from i ask? Did the animals tell you? Or was it a human that decided what they were. Hmmm.

[@jeniwatkins3297]

@@fallingalice2601 bravo!

[@mediafinancing3789]

Anthropomorphizing does not make sense especially with regard to animals because this woman’s human experience is not translatable nor can her analogies be used if she innately internalizes her pain and compares it to that of a dog it’s a ridiculous proposition I feel her pain but it is not as important as understanding that these are sentient creatures with memories experiences and reactions far more animalistic than any human counterpart

[@chiraldude]

Dogs are not people, they need to be trained. A dog that does not understand boundaries cannot be trusted. One day it will bite the hand that feeds it for no reason. Dog behavior is genetically programmed to do one of two things. It will either try to be the Alpha in the pack or it will be loyal and do whatever the Alpha wants. You must establish that you are Alpha as early as possible with a dog. In most cases, once a dog understands you are Alpha, their genetic programming kicks in and they will always be looking to please you. Once you get to that point, you will be able to control the dog with the tone of your voice. If you have a dog that cannot be trained to accept you as Alpha, you have two choices. Either give it to someone with a stronger personality who can control it or you must put it down.

[@jeniwatkins3297]

Try actually watching and listening to the video!! She clearly stated they do need training but, it needs to ve done right. With compassion, love and kindness

[@JupiterJennyArts]

As a Force Free Modern dog trainer, I can tell you this battle is real. We just educate one owner at a time. Who would of predicted kindness would be such a radical concept in the dog training world? As a dog owner you are your dogs protector and advocate. Harsh tools and methods are completely unnecessary in training ANY dog.

[@yarnpower]

jenn cunningham exactly, for the average dog without serious behavioral issues, harsh methods are totally unnatural. People should know their breed, what characteristics are prevalent BEFORE buying or adopting and then find a way to let them use those urges. For instance, Huskies need to run miles every day. The average person is not going to provide that amount of exercise. So they are not a good choice for non runners.

[@DouglasJRoss]

Who are these harsh trainers that people claim exist. It blows my mind to hear these claims, yet in 40 years of training dogs, I have never once in the US or in Europe seen any certified trainers either use or teach harsh methods. I have seen students meaning new owners muck it up a bit and be corrected in not hurting or forcing their animals. I have seen chuckleheads who claim to be trainers that don't know the first thing about training, but someone who is certified. Not once.

[@glenj.taylor2938]

@@DouglasJRoss When you say "certified," what certification are you referring to? I ask because here in the United States, I do not know of any Nationally, or Internationally recognized "certification." Also, about 15 years ago I signed our family up for group dog training classes that was offered through our city. The "trainer" was 100% harsh on the dogs and after the first class I refused to let her handle our puppy. To no surprise, I shared my (which was noted as the entire class' experience) with the city officials and that was the only time she taught in our city that I know of.

[@KJ-ut4rw]

@@DouglasJRoss Caesar Milan, Matt Beisner etc.

[@bEnderOfWorlds]

@@DouglasJRoss No word on what "Certification" you obtained here in the US? As far as I know there isn't a certification endorsed by the AVMA or the AVSAB. It has been a year, have you figured out what that certification was called yet?

[@DF-te2vm]

If you want real enjoyment from having a dog.... try to understand them, like she says !

[@OrualMuse]

For me, dogs are part of the family. The more time they spent with us, the more we interact and even talk to them, the more they seems to understand and behaves better and better. They recognize his/her place in the pack, they think, they feel and yes they love their familly.

[@thechronic555]

Ive been pondering this idea for several years since a certain level of maturity ive reached..one day, this idea of having pets, buying and selling animals will be looked at as a form of slavery. The dogs i inherited were bought and owned by my mother but they are my family, not my property.

[@henkbielderman4243]

5 minutes 43 seconds and I lost my will to live! Bye now

[@daniellehayes8649]

Finally dog owners waking up to this awful behavior. So happy to hear it.

[@blackdogslivesmatter1568]

My dogs trained my really well. All they have to do is give me a subtle command and I react.

[@anaturals4335]

Probably all of us feel well-trained :). I know I do :)

[@my2centz545]

Right who's the real boss 🤔😂

[@bethanybouley6679]

everyone used to ask me how i trained my first dog Muttlee, and i would always say " i dont tell him what to do, i ask him like an equal" we never even needed words, almost all of my communications with him was body language. this woman is saying what ive been thinking ever since i had first lived with a dog, she is my newest hero.

[@jonathanjones635]

Really? Have you ever seen your dog proud because it can do something no other dog can? Or when they run the agility event field with chest puffed out and eyes of firey joy. Have you ever seen the light in a dog you trained’s eyes after they pulled someone from a burning building building, or as they stood by you confidently as the bullets were flying? As someone who has worked with companion dogs, military and rescue dogs and many things in between I can confidently say, when you don’t train your dog you are barely scratching the surface of what your relationship could be. Working like GSDs and Borders want to work and be trained and companion dogs like Frenchies want to snuggle with everyone. Kim is silly and trying to put human reaction and expectation in dogs when dogs are dogs and have been for thousands of years. They were the first thing EVER to be domesticated, including plants. And they were crafted by man for man before recorded history.

[@glenj.taylor2938]

@@jonathanjones635 Finally, someone in these comments who actually "gets it." I 100% agree with what you wrote and respect your education and experience.

[@juliapilgrim6074]

@@jonathanjones635 I am not sure that what you say is completely at odds with Kim's viewpoint. One can be firm with a dog when teaching them but not terse or over dominating. I especially don't see that she is claiming that dogs are humans. I think she's explicit that they aren't.

[@SkylersRants]

Sorry, two minutes in and I know this woman is a bit unhinged. Not watching any more.

[@joemondy1121]

You can always tell when a dog has not been trained.

[@calexj903]

When my dog was a puppy, what training was necessary was easily accomplished with positive reinforcement and consistency. My dog has become what Ms. Brophey suggested: The dog who wants to meet everybody and who believes everyone who comes to the house is there to see/play with him. I don't mind. What has amazed me is what we (he and I) have learned since the formal training ended. There is so much more he knows now, and so much more he and I communicate to each other without even trying. That my dog knows the names of the rooms in my house, that telling him where I'm going is the difference between him being asleep on a chair or waiting anxiously by the door when I return, that I can simply say "show me" when he obviously has something in mind, and he will find something to take me to, even if it wasn't what he originally had in mind -- all of this blows me away. I never feel I'm good enough for him, but I love him. And he has learned to trust me, even if he shows me at first that he would rather not...take the bath, get the allergy shot, have me put gooky stuff in his ear. And I have no desire, reason or would ever force anything on him. In fact, I make promises to him in words that he may or may not understand, and I always keep them. I tell him I love him every day. I say nite nite to him every night. I want to feel like he knows he can count on me; that he is safe here. I've learned so much from him, and his willingness -- his wanting -- to work and play and just be with me feels like an honor every day.

[@federicomachon8841]

My goodness how rediculos are people going to get.

[@my2centz545]

I went thru the same exact thing, and then attached myself to my dogs I treat them as they are my best friends they taught me unconditional love ... I am devoted to my pets regardless I refuse to give them up .. even if I have to be poor homeless or anything else they come first . ..

[@doricetimko332]

Same. ❤️❤️❤️

[@DW-lr7vk]

My family treat our dogs as a part of the family... ALWAYS!

[@bjpetersen8540]

I highly recommend Kim’s book “Meet Your Dog”, which offers detailed explainations of each of the LEGS, as well as descriptions of the dog types that have developed through selective breeding for particular work, and what each is likely to need for fulfillment and a successful relationship with their human. Two thumbs up!

[@helenafranzen9828]

This goes beyond dogs. All the animals we take into our homes should be treated with respect and dignity, and each owner should do their homework properly.

[@dontaskmeimjustagirl...5798]

One of my dogs lives for attention from anybody, including strangers. He'd rather be petted than even eat treats. My other dog only really likes me and my ex-boyfriend. Everybody else, she merely tolerates.

[@abigailmarkowitz1308]

My dog doesn't like strangers touching him and even snipped at the groomer when he didn't want to be touched even though he has never bit anyone ever. People always assume something is wrong with him, but really he just wants to get to know people before he lets them touch and cuddle him, which I can 100% understand and relate to.

[@majidalavi3368]

Dogs are pet. You had the feeling of transference and unresolved issue. That should not make you to delude yourself into seeing dog not as pet as the matter of fact they are hunters and very vicious animal that are genetically modified to become home friendly

[@ruthlomax8669]

Trauma makes you re evaluate and GROW. it was her light bulb moment. When is yours going to be?

[@aslmad1]

@@ruthlomax8669 trauma messes your head and causes you to need to reevaluate and grow more than if you weren't traumatized. Not everyone is as damaged

[@johnsadlier2659]

Haven’t watched the clip just read the title…… it’s meant to say the problem with treating dogs like humans!!!!!!!!! Caesar Milan…..? Watch a professional dog trainer who’s dedicated his whole life to dogs and learn!

[@carlwilliams6977]

If you study wolves, there is a hierarchy. There are do's and don'ts that exist for their survival of the pack. Most dogs yearn for a pack leader, to guide them through a world they can't possibly understand.

[@herojig]

A rather chilling Ted talk. I live in Nepal, where the definition of pet is different, and street / community dogs behave more as they have for thousands of years in partnership with humans. Studying these "non-pet" dogs gives you a better picture of what a dog is, and apparently does not release as much Oxytocin :) But after rescuing one of these beasts, you realize that what Kim says is true; our idea of what "dog"is - is not what they are.

[@byongdownunder]

Really? Cmon. You don't think there's a difference between domesticated dogs and dogs that wild and roam around in packs? And I'm not quite getting your point? So you saying we should raise our dogs more like the way wild dogs act? I hope your not consulting and training people about dogs. Lol!

[@Xpand2infinity]

@@byongdownunder You seem to have misunderstood the point of what "Pheonix" is saying. As I understand it, in Nepal and other countries where dogs are allowed to roam freely, they are mostly wild and unchanged from how they would have related with humans for thousands of years. If you study their behaviour without them being "pets" you get a much better sense of their natural way that they behave, just as dogs and there is less romanticising about "what a cute puppy" . When you decide that you are going to "rescue" one of these animals, you see that they are not just a blank canvas - that both parties need to bend to make this relationship work. Sometimes in India etc - there is a family dog that gets a collar and extra attention but they still roam the streets with other dogs- they can have more autonomy.

[@byongdownunder]

@@Xpand2infinity I can understand you to a point but I have to say I mostly disagree. Sorry mate. I've had 3 rescue dogs and fostered many more and I just think that with all the selective breeding that we've done for all these years, we've bred out a lot of those "wild dog" characteristics. With lots of love and patience, these "wild" dogs have become great "pets" and companions. Or they can become great family dogs. Every dog has their own unique character but I believe even the most aggressive dogs can be rehabilitated to become great "pets". Sorry if I've still misunderstood you.

[@byongdownunder]

Maybe the dogs in Nepal are completely different, I don't know. Maybe that's where the difference lies? But then again there are many people who have little knowledge or understanding of dogs. Experience does make a huge difference and I guess it is hard to get that understanding without that experience. It's not like they teach dog behaviour at school. And even if you have a dog, the experiences gained from a mild mannered lap dog is completely different to that of an aggressive dog with no exposure to people. Geez. Why does everything always come down to education and knowledge? Lol!

[@jessiv841]

@@byongdownunder I don't know about Nepal but I do know that in Hawaii, in the rural neighborhood I live in, there are many dogs that roam free. They go, with or without their owners, to various houses in the neighborhood constantly. They have social relationships with each other and have established their own pecking order amongst the long term residents. Many of these dogs are even blood relatives. When puppies result from this fraternization they tend to remain either with the mother or with someone else in the neighborhood. These dogs are also never 'lost'. They know where they live and they know where their friends (or their owner's friends) live and sometimes they travel miles to track their owners or a wild boar. And most of them were not necessarily 'trained' to do these things. The residents of a few streets where I live consider their dogs to be all part of a collective dog pack. This community of dogs also brings the people together when it comes to caring for the health of each others' dogs. Many people contribute to vaccinations for the neighborhood dog pack, with spaying and neutering, and people can more easily watch each others' dogs when they already have a relationship with them. It's not just about how "wild dogs" interact with humans but how they interact with each other. When dogs are allowed to roam freely you can observe both how a dog will interact with humans and how a dog will interact with other dogs when it is under no human restraint. At least the humans and dogs that it is unfamiliar with. If you don't think it's possible for dogs these days to behave like a "wild dog" I guess it depends on your definition of what a wild dog does. Dogs are still capable of hunting without being trained by a human to do it. They are still capable of being very aggressive towards humans and other animals. They are still capable of forming relationships with other dogs. They can still have puppies and raise them. Some still seek to avoid human contact. There are enough stray dogs to say that they are capable of feeding themselves in almost any situation even if that means taking advantage of food that humans throw away or leave for them. If "wild" simply means they are not tamed then there have to be some out there. Just like feral cats. It seems like it doesn't really matter to us what any dog might want... we are going to "rescue" it anyway. And those who do not behave in the manner we deem proper after being "rescued" they are either given to someone else or euthanized. If there are no wild dogs in this country it is only because we won't allow it. Think of all the other versions of domesticated animals that we allow to be wild. Animals that were, like dogs, bred to be different than their wild ancestors. There are wild examples of those animals all over the island I live on. Pigs, cows, chickens, geese, pheasants, pigeons, rabbits, parrots, parakeets, lovebirds. Multiple shipments of birds going to pet shops ended up getting damaged and within moments all of those "pet" birds became "wild" birds and have had a thriving colony in Kailua-Kona for over a decade. I can give you a very interesting example of an animal that did seem to have all of the "wild" bred out of it. A friend of mine raises chickens and he got a bird from a factory supplier. This hen could lay eggs (huge eggs) but she literally had no idea how to deal with them (sit on them until they hatched). She didn't know how to scratch the ground to find her own food (or really how to eat off the ground at all) so she couldn't teach her chicks how. She didn't know how to keep them warm and dry. After losing the chicks on his first try he ended up catching a wild hen and switching out the small eggs she laid for the large ones the domesticated hen laid. This wild chicken not only hatched the eggs but then went on to raise those chicks and those chicks went on to lead successful "free-range" lives. The domesticated breed of chicken is huge compared to the rest, but that is literally the only genetic difference. I believe the break in the chain between "wild" and "tame" is when we stop one generation from teaching the next how to survive independently of humans. It isn't that we bred all the "wild" out of dogs but that we typically don't train them to survive without us. We also don't teach them to interact with other dogs the way that dogs actually interact. The only thing our breeding programs accomplished was to give us a chance at a consistent temperament for the price of guaranteed health problems. Which also served to make them more dependent on us.

[@mariajuanesta3319]

Wow. Sorry but this lady is crazy.

[@dmtdreamz7706]

The difference between a kangaroo and a terrorist is imaginary. When you realise that's an imaginary difference then you can love the kangaroo 🦘 and the terrorist 💥 identically. We all need to treat our dogs like cute terrorists 🥰

[@spikespiegelfanclub]

this is such a reach comparing petting a stranger's dog to street harassment. as long as you always ask the owner before you pet the dog, and hold out your hand for the dog to smell (i always hold out a fist, something i was told when i was a kid to do in case the dog bites, that way your finger doesn't get bitten off) it's fine! it's not traumatic for a dog to get petted by someone they don't know. if the dog appears uncomfortable, just back off.

[@pyroslavx7922]

I ass-u-me-d that it is a common knowledge that a dog that is backing off and not being enthusiastic about your approach means, well, "BACK THE F*** OFF!!"... And you back off at a any clear enough sign that the dog is not comfortable... I must have lived under a rock for the last century ;-)

[@MeganSmith80]

I feel like the naysayers are focusing on the details and unable to see her overall point. She's only speaking of treating your dog with respect, not discarding him because he won't do a trick on command, and being a responsible animal owner.

[@Asmr_kungfu]

Oh, but dogs love to learn and perform tricks

[@deserado11]

... give me a break ... it's a dog! ...

[@emilyfreer8089]

I don't think she understands that dog and human nature is different. The way they perceive things is different from humans. They think and feel, yes, but in a different way. Through a different lense because we evolved differently. Their feelings matter, but what's threatening to is different to a dog. She has good intentions, but is missing some very big pieces in her theory.

[@Kaotiqua]

Do you believe that the (different) way they think and feel makes those thoughts and feelings less relevant? This is what she was trying to say. Just because they think and feel differently doesn't make those thoughts and feelings irrelevant.

[@jeniwatkins3297]

Dis you watch the entire video? It doesn't sound like you did. She says they are different but, that they do have feelings and emotion . They need to be trained with compassion and love, not dominance and mistreatment just because they are a lower life form

[@georgegonzalez-rivas3787]

Wow. Just wow. THis lady is not just nutso... she's nutso from another planet level of nutso. I've been around dogs all my life and I see NOTHING, ZERO, in this presentation that reflects any reality. She's got serious psych issues and all her 'dog clients' are paying the price. This is abuse.

[@kk70x7]

She lost me with the intro.

[@sainttodd11]

I kept waiting for the punchline....

[@bethhelminiak5063]

Love! My dogs and cats aren't "pets," they are my babies. I spend a lot of time making sure that they are happy, and still giving them tasks and expectations

[@user-lz6dm5lk9y]

Wow....thank you so much on behalf of dogs and all animals. Yo wpoke what I always have known. May your message reach every human being, and may each one see the light.

[@jesss59]

She’s projecting her own feelings on animals.

[@kibagami25]

I was thinking the same thing. Because she was in an abusive relationship i feel she thinks that animals and humans are on the same level which is not. I think it's common sense on how to treat an animal but there is no way i'm going to allow my dog to do what ever and when ever she wants. I do discipline my dog but i do it by using redirection.

[@yasselesca]

Animals are able to have the same feelings as humans. I find it shocking that so many people don't know that. It's getting known more and more in the scientific world, finally.

[@francismarcoux8944]

If you think dog has no feeling then you never had a dog or never invested time to communicate with it. But she's pushing the boundaries of anthropomorphism. Its her business pitch.

[@DL-up9pr]

As a German Shepherd Rescuer who has handled 1000's of dogs over the years and have 37 yrs. of working dog experience, you are wrong my dear. The problem is most people don't have common sense and think it's well ok to shove their face in a strange dogs face, they think it's ok to fawn all over the strangers dogs. Not all dogs are cupcakes, in the rescue world there are so many dogs who are distrustful and suspicious of the strangers who approach them because they have been 'failed' by previous humans. The very same reason that people are protective of their human children from being handled by strangers we should equally be protective of our furkids. in my own experience my own son 36 yrs. ago was a curly headed blond green eyed baby who was a baby everyone felt compelled to touch, it not only irked me, but it was my job as his mother to protect him even from obnoxious people who did not know their own boundaries.

[@jessemitchem3880]

100%

[@MrMcCoy-vs6ss]

After 3 minutes of whining and victim virtue signaling I couldn't take another agonizing minute. I was lucky enough to hit the pause ⏸ buy 3:19. What a wet blank.

[@dalethorn2]

Ya gotta discipline a dog just like disciplining a human child. There's a line between parent and child that cannot be crossed, as there is between human and dog. As far as just reaching out and petting a strange dog, I've found that the best thing is to extend the hand and let the dog decide what's next.

[@jeniwatkins3297]

Yes. But it's i how you train them she is talking about. It must be done with kindness, compassion and love. Same goes for kids

[@meekroaringlion]

So what line is that exactly? I totally disagree with your, in my opinion, totally antiquated belief

[@foxfirelabradors5939]

@@meekroaringlion the line is what will get them hurt. You come when I call because I see that car coming at you or that donkey trying to stomp you. It was the same with my children. We had an agreement that many things could be discussed but if mom yelled, obey immediately so you don’t die. Then we can talk about it. I don’t throw around arbitrary rules. Things make sense to them most of the time and when they don’t, my dogs trust my judgement. I don’t give them reason not to trust.

[@Kiirkas]

Dogs don't require discipline because they do not cognitively understand human discipline. Where in the process of discipline is the dog being taught the desired behavior? How does punishing a dog improve the dog's choice the next time they're faced with a similar situation in the future? Discipline is unnecessary and antiquated. A strong bond, respect for boundaries, consent, conditioning, enrichment, and fear-free training are all humane, contemporary, and backed by science.

[@discopantsandhaircuts1135]

Maybe off topic, but, puppy mills need to be stopped, so to the selling of animals in pet stores

[@jillianguilford5191]

Paradim change needed. She described how to actually respect and love another species. I think it may challenge lots of people. It will take decisive change on the part of individuals to learn what is needed.

[@willowtye4069]

I agree with much of what she said, however, petting a dog to greet them is nothing close to a person caressing another persons face to greet them. A typical dog would grow up to enjoy meeting new people if they're properly socialized- especially if they get a treat from the interaction. Even then, some just don't care for people, (I have a dog like that) and that's fine. BUT it's incredibly anthropomorphic to think petting a dog is similar to petting a person. We don't grow up learning that's how you greet someone... Dogs do. (Should) and if we did, we wouldn't think it's weird.

[@shawnhambler]

Sad seeing my dog passing on but it’s good to see him going on without me. At least he will be in heaven with my dad

[@WhyNot-zr5kl]

This lady is cracked. I speak to my dogs, they listen. When they need or want from me, I listen. I've never jerked, hit, or physically punished them---never would, don't have to. They are my buds.

[@jonathanjones635]

She is ascribing human traits impulses and motivations to dogs, is sampling statistics, and suggested the idea of a contract... ie she is on crack and therefore cracked out of her mind

[@Jjernsberger]

You’ve made your living by imposing your thoughts, feelings and emotions on dogs. We call that anthropomorphism. Surely you’ve encountered that term in your career.

[@Joy-ne8sj]

I’m not a bad Mom, or pet owner, because I teach my kids, and pets right from wrong, what is expectable behavior, and not. Most pets are spoiled in America, they sleep on our beds, couches, they are showered with love. They are our pets though, not our equals.

[@dibrentley7915]

I think what she is saying is your pet is not "a Pet" but a member of the family and should be treated with respect. You really dont need to do horrible things with leads to make your dog walk etc. When you treat your dog well he will love you so much he will walk just fine on that lead. But just like children they need to be guided and have boundries set. I have a huge problem when I hear of people getting dogs for a christmas or birthday present for a child and the parents think this is going to teach them responsibility etc. as if that dog belongs to that one child and not a member of the WHOLE family. I also have a problem with people saying you should be able to take food off your dog without it being snarly. Everyone teach your children not to go near a dog when its eating, thats respect.

[@jkreps18]

It breaks my heart when a dog is beatin or blamed for a dog biting a kid cause the dog was eating, both of our 4 legged children are not food aggressive with me and the wife, but I will never allow my son's to mess with em when eating, for i know my 4 year old will get nipped for he is young the same height as them an no matter how good you train a dog little kids are right at that wrong height and come off threating and want to hug their kneck and kiss their face when eating, and even though I can sit in their face and have my hand in their food bowl while eating I bet id still get bit if I was to kiss their face or hug their kneck if they are eating for it's their nature but adults don't ever wanna blame themselves even though most of furry family member that bite a kids in the homes they live in is not the dogs fault

[@xyzsame4081]

The _leader of the pack gets the food first._ For your own safety and that of the dog _YOU confidently assume the position of alpha dog._ (they are not humans and you do not "humiliate" them if you relegate them to a lower place in the family hierarchy, it is the only way they can safely live with humans. Especially ! if the dog is large, strong, from a breed known to be aggressive or if the dog has the potential to do harm when they bite. Tiny dogs that misbehave are a nuisance, a pitbull or German shepherd that misbehaves (from the point of view of humans) is a potential danger. A dog is NOT supposed to bite, even when a child or clumsy person approaches them. They can start growl (if they are the kind of intimidating dog), they can hold their distance, they can go away. The dog owner is responsible for security, that's his job (it comes with being the alpha), so the dog does not have to bark (a lot) or get aggressive. And never ! is a dog allowed to bite a child. If they annoy him, he can go out of the way. If they would mess with the food bowl it is the job of the dog owner (alpha) to set things right and to tell off the kids to let the dog alone. If the dog thinks he is the alpha - well of course then he will defend the food bowl. Else that is the job of the human alpha - which will solve that with human strategies. - That may include that the dog has to "endure" that someone touched his food (if the owner does not notice and protect the dog from human misbehavior). But having the position of alpah clarified like that, brings with it that the dog will NOT be the one to defend the food, at least not with biting.

[@jefolson6989]

What bugs me is hearing people scold their dogs with words they can't understand. I told one lady, who was "training" her dog with commands like " no you walk NEXT to me, not in front", I said " you know he doesn't speak English right." They learn to associate certain sounds with particular behaviors, that are rewarded or punished. No they dont "learn words" as in a vocabulary as we know it. I talk to my dog all the time. Dont because I think he understands me. It makes it seem less creepy than talking to myself.

[@KarenmitchellANI]

Ive always respected any animal I meet or have cared for. I allow them to come to me, on their terms, not I to them. I allow them to jump up onto my knee, on their terms, I don't just pick them up.

[@ofm1581]

Lady WTF are you talking about my dog is my best friend I treat him as my equal we have an amazing way of coexisting with one another. He's a happy lively and social wonder. Nothi g you said in this video apply to my experience of 10 years of 24/7 with my buddy. You haven't really understood how dogs are the only animal on this planet who wants to e together with humans. Please stop seeking bg attention and dedicate more time to your dog.

[@tmaxim2651]

I have a shy dog and I know exactly what you’re talking about. He’s always been timid, even with positive training, socialisation and reinforcement. People always go for the head and try to pet him even after I tell them that he’s shy...

[@jeniwatkins3297]

Same here. People just do not understand boundaries or reading a dog. When people ask to pet my boy, i always thank them for asking first and then tell them it's up to him. If he wants to let them pet him, he will go to them. Just hold out your hand and let him decide. It's a toss up if he will or not. Lol

[@Asmr_kungfu]

That’s a nono

[@DanDownunda8888]

@@jeniwatkins3297 Ha ha, I have fun with my working line GSD. I tell her to sit and she just looks at people with no expression whatsoever so she doesn't give them a clue what she's thinking. I tell them it's up to them if they want to pat her (I know she does want them to). People walking past either grin or look on in horror, waiting for what comes next. Nobody gets over friendly with her, I wouldn't either if I didn't know her, they just tickle her head, rub her ears and thank us.