Three dogs play outside displaying their different temperaments

All dog owners want to know why dogs do the things they do. But many times the answer lies within the human behavior, not the dog’s. This is especially apparent when discussing the difference between temperament and behavior.

The difference between “temperament” and “behavior” can be defined in terms of the dog’s natural state versus learned behaviors. Yet, while these two terms have different definitions, they are not completely independent of one another.

Temperament = natural state
Behavior = action based on temperament

Sit, stay, down: learned behavior

A dog is capable of learning many things, both from mimicking other dogs and also by learning the commands it is taught by its owner. But a dog may be very well trained and still be unbalanced, just as a balanced dog may not be trained.

The communication and connection we have with our dogs through exercise, discipline, and affection is the foundation for maintaining a balanced dog. I am more concerned about a dog’s overall balance in order to prevent or correct problem behaviors than I am with the dog’s ability to answer basic commands, like sit, stay, come, down, and heel. So in order to correct their bad behaviors, you must first understand the dog’s temperament.

Temperament = state of mind

Your dog’s temperament is dictated by whether or not they are balanced. This has a lot to do with whether or not you are balanced yourself. Are you a calm-assertive pack leader? Are you projecting nervous or anxious energy?

A dog’s temperament can change based on the moment and situation, and then their behavior will change as well. This is about leadership and energy. A dog who is nervous may not listen to the commands you give; because his temperament changed, his behavior (listening to commands) changed along with it.

So in order to keep your dog’s temperament and behavior balanced, you must first keep your own energy in check. And by fulfilling your dog, his temperament will remain in a balanced state and, as a result, his behavior will too.

Have you noticed how your behavior affects your dog? How did you realize it?


More From Cesar's Way Videos

Recommended Videos


Related Posts

May 26, 2023

How Can I Get My Dog to Stop Digging?

Hi Cesar, My boyfriend and I have three dogs. Two are Rottweilers (three years old

May 19, 2023

What You Need to Know About Hookworms in Dogs

Hookworms are dangerous parasites that live in a dog's small intestine. With remarkable efficiency, hookworms

May 12, 2023

I Can’t Get My Overweight Dog to Lose Weight

My Cheena (a Chihuahua/pekinese) is overweight at 11 lb. I have had numerous suggestions on

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get Tips From Cesar & The Pack

Don’t get left out of the doghouse! Sign up now to make sure you’re up to date on the latest happenings!

Trending Today

Trending This Week