Learning the Ropes

Pack Psychology

The most important thing a new puppy learns when he comes into your home is that he is part of your pack. For better or for worse, it's also the easiest thing he'll learn. Puppy learns your pack psychology from falling into your family routine. I hope we did a good job of letting the little bugger know the rules, because after only one week Zeb knows who he is and where he fits in at home. You obey Dad and Mom. You respect the older kids. You leave the cats alone! The big dogs will play, but not for long. The horse belongs in the stall. The chickens belong in the coop. I had heard English Shepherds thrive on following the rules. I was amazed at how true that is. He's acting like my kids when they were toddlers, the schedule must be followed! While he's not participating in any of the work yet, I can tell he's pretty much got it figured out. Good dog!

Below, our cat Anika lets Zeb know where he fits in the pecking order.
Translation: You are below me.