The entire point of ritualized communication, signaling, and threatening behavior in nature is to avoid actual conflicts and altercations. To assume that warnings are just an indication of intent to harm is backward. Think about it this way: In the wild, there are no veterinary hospitals waiting to provide stitches and antibiotics after a fight. So there are “words” that animals are born with knowledge of and, much like us, learn to speak fluently over the course of their lives through experience. These words are basic language skills for dogs to use and comprehend. When they cannot use them, they are at a social deficit with one another, because they are robbed of their voice about their experiences and feelings. Our dogs are misunderstood and backed into a corner without recourse, simply because we do not speak dog.

So let’s take the time to learn their language. They sure as heck are trying to learn ours. We need to value the moments when our dogs “use their words,” and teach them that listening to the words of other dogs is the right thing to do. It is what we want for our children. It should be what we want for our dogs, as well.

Natural Dog Relationship Survival Key:

1. Respect the primitive, wild roots of her GENETIC instincts for hunting, protection, and self-preservation.
2. Give her the greatest gift you can give a natural dog in her daily ENVIRONMENT—a big, fat dose of nature therapy in the great outdoors.
3. Remember that she expects you to be LEARNING as much as she is as you guide her through daily life.
4. Forget yoga and meditation class—get all the Zen you need from your natural dog.

MEET YOUR . . .

Sight Hound

“REGAL RUNNER”

Ibizan Hound

Borzoi

Afghan Hound • Azawakh • Basenji (natural basal sighthound) • Borzoi • chart Polski • Galgo Espanol • Greyhound • ibizan Hound • irish Wolfhound • italian Greyhound • Pharaoh Hound • Saluki • Scottish Deerhound • Sloughi • Whippet • mixes of any of the above breeds

You’ll fall in love with your sight hound because he’s:

ELEGANT—He’s naturally inclined to appreciate the finer things in life, like warmth and comfort.

RESERVED—He is generally quiet and calm, unobtrusive and stoic.

ROMANTIC—His affection and play are delivered with grace, passion, and sincerity.

You might find a sight hound hard to live with because he’s:

SENSITIVE—He is not cut out for harsh conditions, great endurance, invasiveness, or rough play.

A FLIGHT RISK—He has a keen eye for prey and the instincts to hunt it down with sudden swiftness.

SELF-DIRECTED—Doting on you or following your directions (particularly, “Come”) is often not his top priority.

You might find yourself seeking professional help for:

1. Predatory behavior toward other animals
2. Not coming when called
3. His independent nature regarding your directions and requested “obedience”
4. Discomfort with small children and sudden invasions of personal space
5. Occasional wariness of strangers or protectiveness of territory and family

Family History