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| Frequently Asked Questions - Part Two 11. Is the Canaan a Soft or Hard dog?A hard dog recovers very quickly from a correction; a very soft dog goes completely out of drive and does not recover quickly. When a soft dog is corrected with a normal correction it acts like its life just came to an end. Unlike shelties, which are considered a soft dog, from our experience in training competively, the Canaan Dog will not shutdown if he NEEDS to be corrected more firmly.The Canaan puppy and adult will easily take advantage of a soft handler. In short, if you are not going to be the “pack leader” in your household, then he will! Training a well-mannered dog takes time and commitment. If you don't have the time and desire to raise a dog that will become an enjoyable companion, then a dog is not for you. 12. How susceptible is a Canaan to Canadian winter? Canaan Dogs adapt very well to different climates. Interestingly, the winter seems to be the most enjoyable season for our Canaans. We find that they are more active in the winter months and enjoy snowy forest hikes. In the summer they like to conserve their energy and protect themselves from the heat. When hiking in the rocky mountains, Macc will stop and burrow in the rocky cliffs to catch same shade. They curl up like a cat - we like to call it the infamous Canaan Ball! Self-preservation is first and foremost on their list. 13. Are they aggressive? Aggression in dogs, particularly aggression toward people, tends to be a learned or trained behaviour.Instinctively dogs avoid hostile confrontation. In wolves, dogs direct ancestors, there are none of the typical signs of aggression when they are attacking and killing prey. The signs that we see as aggressive in dogs are usually an attempt to avoid confrontation; examples are snarling, growling, barking, raised hackles, lowered ears and a tucked tail, all generally signs that the dog wants to avoid a fight. In essence the dog is saying, "Leave me alone, I'm big and tough and you don't want to fight me, "I'm the boss", or "I'm protecting myself" all in the attempt to avoid a fight and prevent injury to himself. Within their own packs, dogs will typically defer to the higher-ranking member of the pack with submissive behaviours indicated with a wagging tail, lowered head, licking of the face, or exposure of the belly and throat. We, as dog owners, are surrogate pack members and, if properly established, even a small child will outrank a dog in the pack hierarchy and elicit these signs of submission. 14. Are they prey-driven?All dogs have some form of prey drive, an instinctive reaction to chase something that moves. Its original purpose was for capturing prey as wolves, foxes, and wild dogs still do now. So, yes, since the Canaan Dog's roots are from wild born dogs their prey drive can be very intense. Squirrels, chipmunks, birds, geese, rabbits, mice, moles, snakes, gophers,and prarie dogs can be a favourite target for a Canaan Dog who wants to add some extra seasoning to his menu. Grasshoppers and dandelions are also a favourite springtime supplement. In training you can practise and enforce the "leave it" command. 15. “To” Fence or “Not” to Fence A lot of people would give anything to see their dogs living a life where they can run off-leash everyday through the countryside. I know we would but not without proper and well-maintained fencing. “ Proper fencing will protect your dogs from cars and wild animals – and it will protect your neighbours and their investments ‘ property and/or livestock’ from your dogs!” Here are some points to ponder: Pack Mentality • Dogs are pack animals – even a “well-trained” herding dog in a pack will revert to its natural instinct to hunt and kill prey. An unfenced dog can be a risk to other peoples’ investments! Roaming Rover • Given the freedom to roam, even the dog who “never does wrong” or “wouldn’t hurt a fly” can wreck havoc on your neighbour’s property. We know of a dog who injured livestock and chased pregnant ewes until they aborted – not a nice way to make friends with your neighbours. Risky Business • We do a lot of herding with our Canaan Dogs and have become great friends with many in the herding community in Ontario. We have yet to come across anyone who lives on unfenced properties -country or city. Most of these people own Aussies, Border Collies, Briards, Shelties, Kelpies, and Cattle Dogs who have mastered the obedience commands and many are highly biddable and big “pleasers”. Still these people would not risk the safety of their dogs to cars, other stray dogs, or wild animals – their dogs are important to them and making the time to ensure a safe surrounding is a worthwhile endeavor – after all, acquiring and training a dog is an investment! Nature’s Canine Houdini! • Always keep in mind that many dogs – especially the CD – can excel at digging and jumping and can be masters at the art of escape - those strong cat-like paws have been known to lift latches and dig hard and fast! If you ultimately want to “ensure” your Canaan Dog's safety and retain your "good" neighbour status, keep him confined in the house or in a secure crate, when you are out and unable to surpervise him outdoors. Invisible Fencing • This option may work for some but it does not protect your dogs from outside dogs that venture onto the property. FOR MORE FAQS CLICK HERE We are always happy to answer more questions. If there is a question that is not posted or you would like further information, please e-mail Sufat Sheleg Canaan Dogs at sufat.sheleg@gmail.com |
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