Pet owners should remember that dogs do not make friends the way people do. However, they have their own ways of forming friendships, and they do not always find friends among other dogs.
For dogs, friendship represents an attachment that arises towards their owner, family members, or other animals. Dogs 'make friends' with people because a strong bond is formed through shared life: the owner takes care of the pet, plays with it, and communicates. In relation to other animals, dogs choose friends based on their preferences.
Experts emphasize that dogs decide for themselves with whom and when to interact. “Sometimes a pet cannot find friends at the dog park. This can happen because, like people, dogs have different likes: some dogs are sociable and love to play, while others prefer to simply exchange glances and go about their business. It is not advisable to impose your dog on other animals; it is important that the interaction occurs out of mutual interest, not at the owner's desire,” comments dog trainer Vladimir Golubev.
Federation experts note that puppies under six months need interaction with their siblings and other dogs. “At this age, fears, character, and perceptions of the world are formed. The dog learns to interact with other animals. If this period is missed, the pet may become too pushy, show aggression, or, on the contrary, be too shy and fearful. As a result, it will be difficult for them to find friends among other dogs, some of which may completely avoid interacting with such a pet,” the specialists explain.
Dog trainers also point to fear as one of the reasons dogs may not interact with their peers. “Some dogs may be afraid of their peers, which could be related to unpleasant experiences in the past, insufficient socialization, or health issues. In such cases, the pet may avoid interaction or react aggressively to attempts to socialize,” the experts say.
Moreover, dogs, like people, have their own personalities and interests. Some dogs are friendly and sociable, while others are quiet and reserved. If the animals have different temperaments, they may find it difficult to communicate. If your pet is active and curious, it may often seek friends among more shy and withdrawn dogs, which complicates communication.
Another reason that hinders communication with peers may be aggression. “If your pet reacts strongly to other animals, they may avoid contact or get into conflict. It is clear that other dogs will steer clear of an aggressive pet, and it will be difficult for them to find a friend without behavior correction,” the specialists clarify.
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