Perfect Dog Syndrome

People are placing unrealistic expectations on their dogs, causing them to become victims of Perfect Dog Syndrome.

A recent survey carried out by The Blue Cross showed that 60 per cent of dog owners do not believe that dog training should be ongoing and only 54 per cent spend all day with their dogs. The pet charity is concerned that an apparent lack of understanding about the importance of training and socialising could mean that dogs are not considered perfect and are brought to rehoming centres, such as those run by The Blue Cross.

A massive 87 per cent of dog owners recently surveyed by the charity who said that their perfect dog would be able to be socialised in a month also wanted that dog to be good with people and kids. Worryingly, of those surveyed who could only dedicate 30 minutes a day to their dog, 75 per cent also expected it to be a family dog.

Julie Bedford, head of animal behaviour at The Blue Cross, said: “People may feel that their dogs have to be perfect – the need to attain perfection in all other walks of life means that we see our pet’s behaviour as another thing to conquer.”

Survey puts the spotlight on women owners
Women are most likely to have PDS. Over a third of women said that the destruction of household items would be the thing most likely to make them give their dog up, and they find wetting or messing in the house the most annoying behaviour of a dog. 

However, women are also more likely to leave their dogs alone all day, which could lead to these behaviours being exhibited. People aged over 55 are least likely to have PDS as 73 per cent say their dog is with them or someone else all day, and 70 per cent are willing to train their dog five times a day.

Julie continued: “It can be impossible to attain perfection, but with time, effort and the correct approach it is certainly possible to avoid the problems that may lead to disappointment and the dog ending up in a rescue centre.”

For more information on looking after your dog, and other pets, visit The Blue Cross's free information service at www.allaboutpets.org.uk