Know Your Breed — and Train the Dog!-By Student Tiffany Gentry
Know Your Breed — and Train the Dog!
What I feel people should know about dogs and dog training is simple — all dogs were bred for a purpose.
Understanding your dog’s breed and what they were designed to do can make all the difference in training, behavior, and happiness.
Why Breed Knowledge Matters
One of the biggest complaints I hear from dog owners is:
“My dog has so much energy!”
“My dog chews on furniture and cords!”
“My dog just won’t settle down!”
When I ask how much time they spend playing with their dog, or how much mental stimulation their dog gets, the answer is often: not enough.
Most behavioral issues — chewing, digging, barking, destruction — aren’t signs of a “bad dog.” They’re signs of a bored dog. Dogs need outlets for both their physical energy and their cognitive abilities.
The Breed Research Problem
When I ask people, “Why did you choose this breed?” or “Did you research your dog’s needs before getting them?”
Over 90% of the time, the answer is no.
Many people choose breeds based on what they’ve seen in movies — like Huskies or wolf hybrids from Game of Thrones or the Belgian Malinois from John Wick: Chapter 3. These are amazing, intelligent dogs, but they require intense exercise, structure, and training that most owners aren’t prepared for.
Every Dog Was Bred for a Job
All dogs were bred with specific traits:
Herding breeds are alert, active, and mentally sharp.
Working breeds are strong, loyal, and need tasks to stay focused.
Hunting breeds rely on scent, stamina, and partnership with their handler.
Guarding breeds are protective and thrive on leadership and trust.
What they all share in common are traits of loyalty, intelligence, sociability, and purpose.
When these traits aren’t channeled properly through training and activity, they can become sources of frustration — for both the dog and the owner.
Why Training Is Non-Negotiable
Training is more than teaching commands — it’s giving your dog the ability to think, problem-solve, and connect with you.
Dogs thrive when they have structure and purpose. A well-trained dog is confident, content, and secure in their place within the family. Even shy or anxious dogs blossom when given clear communication and consistent leadership.
Without training, the consequences can be heartbreaking:
Destructive behaviors
Injuries to people or other animals
Dogs being rehomed or surrendered to shelters
Emotional distress and confusion for the dog
We owe it to our dogs to guide them. Training is an act of love — not a chore.
Final Thoughts: Train the Dog
The sad truth is, many people simply don’t make the time to train their dogs. But every dog deserves the chance to learn, to succeed, and to live a fulfilled life.
So before you bring home a new companion:
Do your breed research.
Know your lifestyle.
And train the dog!
You’ll both be happier for it.