Domesticated dogs have descended from grey wolves; they are a sub-species of canines and shared many behavioral characteristic of wolves. These behavioral patterns have greatly been influenced by environmental, genetic and situational factors.
Dogs are said to be man's best friend; this is undoubtedly true. The loyalty, affection, trust and care they repose with their human counterparts set many examples even for us to emulate. They are the first animals that shared close contact with humans, becoming tamed in the process and have therefore shared a common environment and lifestyle for many thousands of years.
Research on the lifestyle and habits of wolves' shows that the social unit called the 'pack' is a tightly knit society of individuals, with an Alpha male as the leader of the pack. There may be several packs consisting of younger males and females, pups etc. and it is a strictly linear hierarchy. Dogs are also social animals which helped them succeed in their domestication with humans; they have evolved their social instincts to include humans and seeing them as part of the 'pack', with the owner or the handler adopting the role of the Alpha.
Where hierarchies are present even in the animal world, traits such as 'dominance' and 'submission' come into force. This is an absolutely essential factor for the well-being of the other individuals in the 'pack'.
Behavioral traits
As puppies, dogs play primarily to reinforce behavioral traits in later life. Even at that young age, they engage in both dominant and submissive role plays; the weaker ones are usually dominated by the stronger.
There are many habits or traits that puppies form as they grow up which are reflective of their surroundings and the messages handed down by their owners. However, some common habits can be found among dogs, across most breeds. Understanding their habits and behavior leads to better communicating between humans and their pet dogs.
• Chewing objects - this is generally done by puppies to relieve pain of new teeth breaking in. They can chew anything from shoes to rugs, paper, pens, or just about anything within reach. However, if an adult dog displays such behavior it could be exhibiting signs of anxiety.
• Panting - dogs expel body heat through their mouths and do this to regulate their body temperature. They also pant when in excessive pain. The pads on the feet are the sweat organs.
• Barking - barking when the doorbell rings is announcing a new arrival or excited at the thought of the owner returning. It also sounds as an alarm call to possible danger.
• Jumping up - this enthusiastic display is a welcome sign to indicate happiness or playful behavior; it could also mean an attempt to exert dominance over the person.
• Digging - this is part of the genetic make-up of dogs believed to be a back trace to their ancestry. Dogs in the wild generally dig to hide bones or other stuff or to dig a little hollow to lie down in as protection from the heat. Excessive digging and restlessness can be a sign of some health problem.
• Biting - playful biting is a means of communication to draw attention to their need. Bites could also be part of a reaction to fear or nervousness or increased aggression. This kind of behavior if repeated often needs to be watched.
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