The dog and the human attachment
How a puppy's attachment shifts from its mother to a family member — and why a dog is ultimately “faithful” to whoever holds the dominant position.
When he leaves the breeder, the puppy transfers the vital attachment he had to his mother onto a member of his new family.
This is usually whoever spends the most time with him right after he leaves the breeder. This bond will evolve, and after detachment and puberty will be shaped by sexuality and by the hierarchical order that becomes established. In adulthood, the dog will be attached to the people who dominate him. They are his guides, the ones he can rely on, because they are the ones who look after his needs.
The dog is programmed to follow whoever is best able to ensure his survival, so some dogs may want to follow and go off with people other than their owner. This depends on the dog's individual sensitivity, but above all on his hierarchical position.
Above all, the dog is "faithful" to whoever dominates him.
Stephan MairesseProfessional dog trainer & canine behaviorist, 30 years of experience across 16 countries. Certificat de capacité N°750108. Read his full background →
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