Preparedness
Train Your Dog for Survival Scenarios and Boost Readiness
When preparing for survival scenarios, it’s essential to consider not only your own readiness but also that of your canine companion. Dogs can be invaluable assets in a crisis, capable of performing a wide range of tasks. However, it’s important to recognize that not every dog is suited for every job. For instance, herding breeds may not excel as livestock guardians, and vice versa.
Small companion dogs offer benefits such as alertness and warmth, but they have limitations. They can’t carry their own supplies and might struggle to keep up during an evacuation on foot. Moreover, without proper training, they may bark and reveal your location when silence is crucial.
One of the most vital commands to teach any dog is to remain quiet when needed. This, along with the ability to come when called, is fundamental. Ideally, commands should be given via a dog whistle to maintain stealth.
Large breeds like Newfoundlands, Great Danes, and Bull Mastiffs can be intimidating due to their size and are often capable of carrying their own gear. However, their need for space makes them more noticeable. Conversely, medium to large-sized dogs strike a balance, being versatile enough for various tasks while remaining less resource-intensive than their larger counterparts.
Before choosing a dog breed, consider the tasks most beneficial to your survival plan. Whether you need a herding dog, a livestock guardian, or a hunting partner, each role demands a commitment to advanced training. Regardless of the specific role, every dog should undergo basic obedience training. This includes mastering tasks such as heeling, which can be adapted to a “with me” command if preferred.
Reliable obedience is crucial, and should be practiced both at home and in public settings to ensure effectiveness amidst distractions. A survival-ready dog must also be environmentally sound, meaning it should remain calm in new and stressful situations, such as those involving gunfire or adverse weather.
Aggressive behavior is a red flag. A dog must not be a threat or unpredictable. Instead, it should be confident, social, and obedient to its handler.
While commercial dog foods have been available since the late 1800s, they became widespread only in the 1960s. Historically, dogs thrived on table scraps, as they are omnivores and can consume diets similar to humans. It’s worth noting that unopened dry pet foods typically last 12-18 months, whereas canned foods remain good for up to two years from manufacture.
In summary, preparing your dog for survival scenarios involves careful breed selection, comprehensive training, and ensuring they can handle various environments. By investing in your dog’s preparedness, you enhance your overall readiness for whatever challenges may arise.
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