Tag 01 Video Woche 01

Understanding and Meeting | The Essential needs of Dogs

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Time to read 13 min

Loose leash walking [Week 01] Day 01 of 35

This video and training session is part of the loose leash walking course , a structured program designed to support relaxed leash handling and the bond between human and dog. The course is carefully structured in both didactic and methodological terms to ensure that each exercise builds on the previous one, achieving maximum effectiveness. It is essential that you carry out the training in the intended order to achieve the best possible outcome for your dog.

Basic needs of the dog

 

Unlike humans, dogs communicate mainly nonverbally, which makes it harder for them to tell us about their needs. Imagine having to start studying for an exam on an empty stomach and without enough sleep. Sounds difficult, doesn’t it? This is exactly the challenge we often place on our dogs when we begin loose leash walking training without first meeting their most basic needs. Just as you need to be in a good state to learn, your dog needs to be as well in order to learn new concepts. So before you begin loose leash walking training, we’ll explain to you how to train in a needs-oriented way. 

 

Goal: You understand that loose leash walking needs to be viewed holistically and that your dog’s needs must be met

Equipment: Dog Bed, Dog Food, treats, you & other social partners (people or dogs)

Location: At home

Duration: daily


The concept that animals, including dogs, can learn more effectively and concentrate better when their basic needs are met is widely recognized in animal behavior research and animal psychology. It is based on the fundamental assumption that an animal living in a healthy, safe, and nurturing environment is psychologically better able to focus on complex tasks such as training and learning.

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Basic needs of a dog according to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs

It is essential to understand and meet your dog’s basic needs before you begin loose leash walking training. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, a concept from human psychology, can help us better understand your dog’s needs. To understand your dog’s needs in greater depth, let’s look at each level of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs in detail and how it can be interpreted in relation to dogs.

The image shows an adapted version of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, specifically modified for dogs’ needs. The levels are structured as follows, from the base to the top: Basic physical needs: This is the base of the pyramid, representing fundamental physical requirements such as food, water, sleep, and shelter. Safety & guidance: The second level is about the need for safety, protection, and stable guidance, which for dogs is ensured through a safe home and a clear position within their social structure (e.g., within the family or the “pack”). Social contact: This level emphasizes the importance of social interactions and bonds, such as love, friendship, and belonging, which for dogs are fulfilled through living together and interacting with their owners and other dogs. Esteem & individual needs: This is about the dog’s recognition and self-esteem, strengthened through praise, positive reinforcement, and fulfilling their role within the social structure. Individuality: At the top of the pyramid is the need for self-actualization and expression of their own personality, which in dogs can be supported through individual attention, play, and the opportunity to develop their own behaviors and preferences. This representation acknowledges that dogs also have a complex set of needs that goes beyond purely basic physical needs and includes emotional and psychological aspects.
Maslow’s hierarchy of needs adapted for dogs

A dog’s basic physical needs

Your dog’s basic physical needs are the foundation for their well-being and their ability to focus on training. 

  1. Proper nutrition: A nutrient-rich, balanced diet is essential for your dog’s health. Choose high-quality Dog Food that is suited to your dog’s age, size, and activity level. Take specific dietary needs and sensitivities into account. Proper nutrition not only supports physical health, but also influences behavior and trainability. In general, dogs generate their energy from fats; some dogs, however, need a little more carbohydrate, known as brain food, so they can concentrate better during training and bring more calm into their behavior. We are not fans of exclusive hand-feeding. Many dog trainers “prescribe” temporary hand-feeding, where the dog is fed only by hand over a longer period so that they pay more attention to their person. Please avoid exclusive hand-feeding, as it can cause stress and affect your dog’s concentration. You may know this from your own experience: learning on an empty stomach is difficult because the brain needs to be supplied with enough nutrients. So feed your dog as usual and perhaps do not start a training session immediately after feeding, but after a short break. If needed, the food ration can be divided up to support weight management when giving a larger number of treats.

  2. Fresh water: Make sure your dog has constant access to fresh water. Dehydration can quickly lead to health problems and affect the ability to concentrate. Water is especially important after training and in warm weather.

  3. Sufficient exercise: Even if you want to practice loose leash walking with your dog, your dog should still get sufficient exercise. Regular exercise is essential for your dog’s health. It helps prevent excess weight, supports mental stimulation, and helps prevent behavioral issues. Plan regular walks, play sessions, and other activities to meet your dog’s exercise needs. At the start of loose leash walking training, you can give your dog some exercise in “free-time mode” to make the learning that follows easier. 

  4. Sufficient rest and sleep: Dogs need much more sleep than humans. An adult dog sleeps an average of 16 to 20 hours per day, while puppies and older dogs often sleep even more. Most of this is more like dozing than true deep sleep. Sleep is essential for recovery and learning. Provide a quiet, comfortable sleeping environment to support your dog’s rest periods. After walks, for example, you can deliberately build in ritualized breaks so that your dog rests in their place after the dog walk. 

  5. Resting place in a pleasant environment: Having their own comfortable resting place is important for your dog. This can be a Dog Bed, a blanket, a crate, or a dedicated area in the home. A safe, quiet place helps your dog relax and reduce stress. Where the dog’s place is positioned matters. Ideally, the Dog Bed should not be in a passageway, by a door, or directly by a window, because these spots encourage many dogs to “monitor” their surroundings, keeping them in constant work mode instead of truly relaxing. 

  6. Grooming: Regular grooming, including brushing, bathing, and caring for the claws and teeth, is important for your dog’s health. Good care not only supports well-being, but also strengthens the bond between you and your dog. 

  7. Health: Regular veterinary checkups and preventive measures are essential. Watch for signs of illness or imbalance and act quickly to address potential health problems. A healthy dog is a happy dog that is ready and able to learn and train. In our experience, many behavioral abnormalities arise from health problems or pain in dogs. Dogs are excellent at hiding their pain, but they show their discomfort in other ways. So if your dog has health issues, have them checked first before you start loose leash walking training. 

By taking this comprehensive approach to meeting your dog’s physiological needs, you lay the foundation for their health, happiness, and training success.

How security, love, consistency, and guidance enrich your dog’s life

Safety and guidance are essential elements in a dog’s life. They make a significant contribution to their sense of security and their behavior. A dog who is guided safely trusts their person and is therefore less likely to feel the need to handle things on their own. Whether during an encounter with another dog or in other everyday situations. 

  1. Security: Safe and loving handling gives your dog a sense of security. A home where your dog feels protected and comfortable is fundamental to their emotional well-being.

  2. Love: Loving your dog does not mean they are allowed to do everything. True love also includes setting boundaries. A dog who experiences love together with clear rules feels safer and is more balanced.

  3. Trust: A dog who is guided safely develops deep trust in their person. This trust is essential so the dog does not feel forced to handle situations on their own—whether during encounters with other dogs or in other everyday situations.

  4. Consistency: Consistent behavior on your part helps your dog understand what is expected of them. This clarity and predictability give them safety and help them stay relaxed.

  5. Guidance: Clear, kind guidance is essential for your dog’s development. It helps them understand boundaries and feel safe within them. Guidance does not mean harshness, but lovingly guiding your dog through life.

  6. Routine = safety: A regular routine gives your dog structure and safety. Set feeding times, walks, and rest periods help them feel safe and secure in their environment.

By taking these aspects into account, you create an environment in which your dog feels safe and has what they need to develop positively and focus on training.


“Boundaries provide safety, and safety creates relaxation.”

Vitomalia


Social needs of a dog

Social needs are fundamental to a dog’s emotional balance and behavior. Dogs are highly social animals and therefore need plenty of social contact. This does not necessarily have to include other dogs; it can also be fulfilled through close integration into the family. 

  1. Relationships with people: The relationship with you and other people in their environment is very important for your dog. These relationships provide safety, trust, and learning opportunities.

  2. Social contact with other dogs: While some dogs enjoy playing and interacting with other dogs, others prefer to spend more time with their humans. Pay attention to your dog’s preferences and do not force them into interactions they do not enjoy. For particularly social dogs, social contact with other dogs is also part of their social needs. Since dogs understand us humans as full social partners, it is also fine for dogs who are not compatible with other dogs not to need another dog in their life.

  3. Play and interaction: Play is an essential part of your dog’s social interaction. During puppyhood and adolescence, dogs learn about different behaviors mainly through play. It supports not only your dog’s physical health, but also their mental development. Games and shared activities strengthen the bond between you and your dog and support well-being. Interaction with you leads to the release of oxytocin, the so-called “cuddle hormone”. This hormone strengthens the emotional bond and trust between you and your dog.

The image shows a black dog with brown markings running energetically on a gravel surface. The dog is carrying a large rope in its mouth, suggesting that it is playing or being trained. The setting is natural, possibly a riverbank or a gravel path, with green areas and trees in the background creating a calm outdoor scene. The dog’s focus and movement give the image a sense of dynamism and enjoyment of play.

You’ll find the right equipment for your dog with us

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Appreciation / self-related needs

Meeting your dog’s self-related needs, especially as part of loose leash walking training, can significantly improve learning outcomes.

  1. Celebrate success: Every dog deserves recognition for their achievements in training. Celebrating small successes with praise and rewards strengthens your dog’s confidence and their relationship with you. Positive reinforcement is a key element in showing your dog that they are respected and valued. So, especially at the beginning, pay attention to the smallest improvements and show your dog that they are doing it right. Every dog deserves to be praised for their efforts, their training, and positive cooperation. Always follow this principle: Plenty of praise for good behavior and little but clear correction for unwanted behavior. 

  2. Maintaining motivation: The demands of training should match your dog’s abilities. Tasks that are too easy can lead to boredom, while tasks that are too difficult can cause fear and frustration. A balanced level of challenge supports motivation and the joy of learning. In our free loose leash walking course, we show you many exercises that build the foundation for loose leash walking. Follow our sequence, and you will notice progress with your dog. 

  3. Freedom within boundaries: Well-trained dogs with clear rules are often happier than dogs without structure. Within defined boundaries, your dog can move freely and make choices independently. This supports their sense of autonomy and contentment.

  4. Respect and appropriate challenges: Respect your dog’s needs and boundaries. Training should be enjoyable and should not be a punishment. Engage with your dog in a way that challenges and supports both their physical and mental abilities. Especially in the beginning, when loose leash walking is not yet working well, you should remain fair to your dog. Use routines and clear instructions so that both of you can enjoy training together.  

  5. Bond and affection: Spending time together in training and play strengthens the bond between you and your dog. These moments of affection help your dog feel loved and valued.

By taking your dog’s individual needs into account during training, you create a positive learning environment. This leads to a motivated, confident, and well-adjusted dog who enjoys walking by your side.

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Effects on learning behavior and loose leash walking

Meeting your dog’s basic needs has a direct influence on their learning behavior and loose leash walking. When basic needs are met, your dog is better able to focus on training and respond to it positively. When a dog’s basic needs are met, this shows in many ways in their behavior and ability to learn. A dog who feels content and safe in their basic needs is less distracted and can focus much better on training. This improved concentration allows them to make more effective use of training sessions and make faster progress.

A content dog also shows a greater willingness to learn. They are more open to new learning and respond more positively to training incentives. This is especially important in loose leash walking training, where curiosity and the willingness to try something new are crucial. A dog who feels comfortable and safe is more likely to engage with new challenges and actively take part in training.

In addition, you strengthen the bond with your dog by recognizing and meeting their needs. This strong bond is a key factor in successful training because it supports trust and cooperation. A dog that has a close relationship with their owner is more likely to follow cues and work together with their person.

Many behavioral issues, such as excessive barking or aggression, are often a sign that the dog’s basic needs are not being met. A balanced and content dog is less likely to show these behavioral issues because they feel safe and understood in their environment.

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Summary 

As we have seen, meeting these needs according to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is not only crucial for the dog’s overall well-being, but also for their training success.

Proper nutrition, sufficient exercise, enough rest and sleep, and safe, caring handling form the foundation for a balanced dog life. Just as important are meeting social needs through interaction with people and other dogs, as well as taking the dog’s individual needs into account through appreciation, recognition, and support for the dog’s individual abilities. By understanding and meeting these needs, a strong bond is built between human and dog, which is essential for successful training.

For successful training, your dog’s physical and emotional basic needs — food, rest, safety, love — must be met.

Use praise and rewards in training to strengthen your dog’s confidence and willingness to learn.

A trusting relationship based on respect and consistent guidance is essential for successful training with your dog.

Why are a dog’s basic needs so important for loose leash walking training?

A dog’s basic needs — such as food, safety, and emotional support — form the basis for their physical and mental health. When these needs are met, the dog can focus better on training and learn more effectively.

How much sleep does my dog need?

Most dogs need between 14 and 20 hours of sleep per day. Most of this time does not mean deep, uninterrupted sleep, but rather dozing. Puppies, older dogs, and large breeds may need even more sleep. Your dog needs this time to properly process everyday experiences and newly learned information. 

Can too much training be harmful?

As with everything, moderation is important in training too. Training that is too intense or stressful can lead to overwhelm and stress. Pay attention to your dog’s signals and adjust the training accordingly.

How does positive reinforcement affect training?

positive reinforcement, such as praise and rewards, strengthens your dog’s confidence and encourages their willingness to learn and follow cues. This leads to more effective training.

The Vitomalia loose leash walking concept is a structured, didactically and methodologically well-designed program aimed at giving you and your dog the necessary skills and understanding for pleasant and safe walks. Each exercise builds on the previous one, creating a strong foundation for future learning success. Here you will find a wide range of further exercises specifically designed to deepen and expand what you and your dog have already learned. From advanced techniques for leash handling to tips on how to manage distractions effectively, we offer a broad range of content to support your training goals.

American Staffordshire Terrier pulls on the leash

Why dogs pull on the leash | Understanding causes and successfully training loose leash walking [Einleitung]

From pulling to relaxed dog walks | How to set realistic expectations for loose leash walking [Day 2/0]

From pulling to relaxed dog walks | How to set realistic expectations for loose leash walking [Day 2/0]

Understanding dogs’ language | Clear communication for loose leash walking [Day 2/1]

Understanding dogs’ language | Clear communication for loose leash walking [Day 2/1]

Achieving success with clear goals | Effective goal setting in dog training [Day 2/2]

Achieving success with clear goals | Effective goal setting in dog training [Day 2/2]

The authors: Paulina & Lui

Paulina and Lui are the heart and soul behind Vitomalia [Dog Training & Store]. Their journey in dog training began with the adoption of their first restricted-breed dog, Vito. This experience sparked their deep interest in sharing knowledge about dog behavior and dog training with other dog owners. At first, it was simply a hobby, but with the adoption of the American Pit Bull female Amalia, who had been rehomed several times due to severe behavioral issues, their passion developed into a true calling. Amalia’s specific behavioral challenges deepened their interest in dog training and behavioral therapy. This turning point led Paulina and Lui to leave their original career paths, pursue intensive further education, and dedicate themselves fully to dog training. Their work with human-dog teams also revealed a gap in the dog market: there was a lack of safe, high-quality dog accessories specifically for medium-sized and large breeds.

From this insight, Vitomalia [Dog Training & Store] was created: a combination of their commitment to professional dog training and the need for high-quality dog accessories. Paulina and Lui bring their personal experience, extensive knowledge, and passion for dogs into every product to support human-dog teams in everyday life together.