How do dogs show respect to owners?

Respect, on the other hand, is more often exhibited in a trusting partnership than in subservience. Respect is something we humans tend to put on a pedestal; dogs don't bow before kings or grovel in servility - no hope there! Dogs recognize, in their own unique way, those they wish to honor. They will not obey, no!, but they will seek; they will choose, freely and with desire.

Who casts respect as submission? Who, as a show of respect, takes pleasure in being obeyed? A dog who makes soft eye contact craves partnership, not conquest. A dog who brings you his toys is not negotiating surrender but making an offer. These signals of respect, rooted in trust, stem from a sweet connection, not control through intimidation.

Mutual Respect Our dogs should appreciate our authority. In the opposite situation, if the dog approaches us unsure, we offer him calm reassurance. And if we want our dogs to respect our space when we're relaxing on the couch, we respect theirs when we see them go to their beds - common courtesy deepens trust.

The anxious dog of my proper person moved closer to her and started checking in on her over the months, rewarding his proximity and contact with treats. This dog did not gently approach or seek any eye contact, but now he had taken the leap of faith to check in for a treat. This process required time, patience, and numerous treats.

Do not confuse appeasement behaviors like submissive urination with respect. They express fear rather than trust. Genuine respect presents itself in calm, secure interactions when your dog voluntarily chooses to interact, again without any intimidation, and recognizes that you are a team.

Read the full article: Understanding Dog Pack Mentality Dynamics