So dogs often charge things they are worried about if they think they have a chance of "seeing that thing off". It's about creating distance, generally. Either the dog runs away to create distance from a scary trigger, or they might charge it to make the trigger run away instead.
Most of the time, charging at things works - the hoover goes backwards, the postman goes away etc
So we have to treat it the same way as we would any other fear based behaviour - by working on the emotional response to the trigger.
(Of course in some instances, charging and vocalisation can be play, but unless you know the dog and their communication really, really well it's best to be safe. Play barks generally sound different too. )
It can be hard reading humans, can't it? I live with three people who all have socio-communication difficulties at times and it can be a minefield for all of us. Luckily we are all quite easy going and patient with each other, or it could be very stressful.
I ❤️ Pants! This was amazing Chloe and I can tell you why she runs TOWARDS things that scare her, if you really want to know. I hope I get to meet her (and you!) someday!
Some dogs, especially if on a leash or a chain, will do a bluff charge. They know exactly how far they can go with it, but if they aren't tethered, then they have to finish what they started. It's a boundary thing. Now, charging at the vaccuum is very common because the vaccuum goes back and forth as you use it and the dog thinks, because she's charged it, it's backing up. I'd have to actually see Pants in action, but this is generally why dogs charge things that they are afraid of.
I felt a little like Renee Zellwegger reading that….”you had me at pants.”
Also, that face reminds me of our dog’s durr face 🤣 but I have a feeling Pants means something else
Definitely a durr face!
Found another dog person, hello Holly!
That is an amazing reply! 🙂
Hey, great post as always!
So dogs often charge things they are worried about if they think they have a chance of "seeing that thing off". It's about creating distance, generally. Either the dog runs away to create distance from a scary trigger, or they might charge it to make the trigger run away instead.
Most of the time, charging at things works - the hoover goes backwards, the postman goes away etc
So we have to treat it the same way as we would any other fear based behaviour - by working on the emotional response to the trigger.
(Of course in some instances, charging and vocalisation can be play, but unless you know the dog and their communication really, really well it's best to be safe. Play barks generally sound different too. )
It can be hard reading humans, can't it? I live with three people who all have socio-communication difficulties at times and it can be a minefield for all of us. Luckily we are all quite easy going and patient with each other, or it could be very stressful.
Really thought provoking piece - thank you.
I love all this information and I so appreciate you taking the time to share it!
No problem! I love the posts you write!
Love this! 😊
I ❤️ Pants! This was amazing Chloe and I can tell you why she runs TOWARDS things that scare her, if you really want to know. I hope I get to meet her (and you!) someday!
Tell me tell me, I’m dying to know!
Some dogs, especially if on a leash or a chain, will do a bluff charge. They know exactly how far they can go with it, but if they aren't tethered, then they have to finish what they started. It's a boundary thing. Now, charging at the vaccuum is very common because the vaccuum goes back and forth as you use it and the dog thinks, because she's charged it, it's backing up. I'd have to actually see Pants in action, but this is generally why dogs charge things that they are afraid of.
🤯 WHOA. This is fascinating, and makes so much sense! Thank you!
Any time! I'm happy to help, if I can.
Mayday knowz what Pants is thinking. She is thinking "I'm ready when you are." :)
Mayday and Pants would have the BEST TIME playing!
She’s saying: “You don’t have a clue what I’m thinking!” 👅
Hahaha I can just hear her saying, "Wouldn't you like to know?"
I think Pants is saying - "So, what's on our agenda for today". My response....well what would you like to do, take a walk?
I think you’re probably right!
"Treats, treats, when is she going to give me treats. Can't she tell by my tongue what a good, hungry girl I am?"
I never should have taught her to stick her tongue out on command!
She's thinking "that was a great walk mama, can't wait til the next time" 🥰🐶