In the fascinating world of dog raising and training, the topic of how to feed them can spark heated debates. This blog is dedicated to a particular breed, the Cane Corso, and this time we will explore a practice that divides opinions: Should we hand-feed our Dog? To address this topic, we start from a conversation between two experts, Noel and Juanma, and the introduction of Aida, a Cane Corso dog that will be trained. What is the right approach and why?
Humanizing Dogs: A Permanent Debate
Humanizing dogs is a recurring topic in the canine community. Some argue that treating dogs like humans can lead to problematic behaviors, while others believe that certain practices can strengthen the bond between dog and owner. Noel represents the first stance, concerned about the effects of humanizing dogs. Juanma, on the other hand, has a more nuanced approach, explaining that hand-feeding can be beneficial if done with a clear purpose.
Noel’s Position: Avoid Humanizing
Noel argues that hand-feeding dogs is a way of pampering and humanizing them, which can be counterproductive. His concern is that this could develop an inappropriate dependency of the dog on the human to satisfy their basic needs, which can lead to behavioral problems and complications in their training. For Noel, dogs must maintain a certain level of independence and structure that can be better achieved by feeding them in a bowl.
Juanma’s Answer: Giving food to the dog with your hand strengthens the bond.
Juanma offers a different perspective. For him, hand-feeding is not simply an act of senseless pampering, but a strategic tool in the training and socialization of the dog. Juanma explains that by hand-feeding Aida, the Cane Corso, he is working to earn her trust and create a strong bond. This approach is based on the theory of positive reinforcement, where the dog associates the owner’s presence with good things, such as food and toys.
The Science Behind Juanma’s Approach
Canine psychology supports Juanma’s approach in several aspects. Positive reinforcement is a widely recognized and used technique in dog training. According to studies, dogs that are trained with positive reinforcement tend to be more obedient and have a stronger and healthier relationship with their owners. By providing food by hand, the owner becomes the source of all good things, which helps the dog associate their presence with rewards and positive experiences.
The Importance of Purpose in Hand-Feeding
Juanma emphasizes that the problem is not the practice of hand-feeding itself, but the lack of a clear purpose. Hand-feeding a dog without a goal can indeed lead to problematic behaviors. However, when done with the intention of creating a bond and establishing a relationship of trust, the benefits can be significant. For Juanma, the ultimate goal is for Aida to see him as a reference and leadership figure, which will facilitate her future training.
Is It a Myth That Dogs Won’t Eat from a Bowl After Being Hand-Fed?
A common concern is that dogs that are hand-fed may become dependent on this practice and refuse to eat from a bowl. Juanma clarifies that this is a myth. He explains that once the bond and trust are established, the dog will have no problem eating from a bowl. The key is for the dog to associate the food with the owner, not necessarily with the owner’s hand. Thus, when the bowl is presented, the dog will accept it without any issues.
The Balance Between Humanization and Training
The debate between Noel and Juanma highlights the need for balance in dog raising. While excessive humanization can be harmful, a balanced approach that incorporates elements of positive reinforcement can be highly beneficial. The key is to understand the purpose behind each action and how it affects the dog in the long run.
Strategies for a Well-Trained Cane Corso
For Cane Corso owners, the decision to hand-feed should be based on a clear understanding of training objectives and the dog’s character. Here are some practical tips:
- Define the Purpose: If you decide to hand-feed your Cane Corso, make sure you have a clear goal. It can be to strengthen the bond, gain their trust, or introduce a new behavior.
- Consistency and Leadership: Maintain consistency in your feeding and training practices. Ensure the dog sees you as a constant source of leadership and security.
- Transition to the Bowl: Once the bond and trust are established, start introducing the bowl gradually. This will ensure your dog gets used to eating from it without issues.
- Positive Reinforcement: Always use positive reinforcement to reward desired behaviors. This can include not only food but also toys, praise, and playtime.
- Observe the Behavior: Every dog is unique, so it’s important to observe how your Cane Corso responds to different feeding methods and adjust your approach as necessary.
- Continuous Education: Stay informed about the best practices in dog training and care. Participating in seminars, reading books, and consulting with professional trainers can provide you with new ideas and techniques.
Final Thoughts on feeding the dog by hand
The conversation between Noel and Juanma offers valuable insight into different perspectives on dog raising and training. At the end of the day, the most important thing is to understand your Cane Corso and apply practices that foster a strong and healthy bond. Hand-feeding can be an effective tool if used with a clear purpose and in the right context. As always, the key to success in dog training lies in patience, consistency, and love for your canine companion.