Louie, my two-year-old Yorkshire Terrier, is not just a pet to me. If Tori is my irreplaceable daughter, Louie is my baby in another form. Because of that, the word “dog” has always made me pause. It feels different from “puppy,” almost distant. While reading What Makes Dogs Uncomfortable by Kwon Gijin, that discomfort surfaced immediately. By the time I finished the book, however, I realized that accepting this discomfort was part of understanding Louie more deeply.
1. Why I Chose This Book
After watching several videos by Kwon Gijin, I decided to read this book. I was not looking for a quick fix, but for a way to understand my dog beyond surface-level behavior.
2. Core Message Of The Book
This is not a book about correcting behavior through training techniques. Instead, it focuses on how everyday human actions can unintentionally stress dogs. Treating dogs exactly like humans, keeping them indoors instead of providing proper walks, or interpreting separation anxiety as affection are all examples discussed in the book.The author emphasizes that many so-called problem behaviors come from misunderstanding a dog’s instincts and emotional structure. The key message is not control, but understanding the nature of dogs as dogs.
3. Between Family And The Nature Of A Dog
To me, Louie is family, someone I want to protect like a child. Because of that, the repeated use of the word “dog” in the book felt uncomfortable at first. However, the book does not argue against love or attachment. It asks readers not to humanize dogs completely, nor to treat them as mere animals.What resonated most was the idea that true care lies in balancing affection with respect for a dog’s natural instincts. Loving a dog also means allowing them to be what they are.
4. Applying The Message To Louie
When Louie became overstimulated, I used to interpret it as disobedience. The book reframes such moments as emotional overload rather than defiance. It suggests that a guardian’s role is not to overpower the dog, but to reduce stimulation and provide calm structure.In the past, I responded to Louie’s barking by raising my voice and eventually holding him firmly. Now, I call him softly, sing a song he associates with rest, and hold him gently. Seeing how quickly he calms down made me reflect on how often I reacted out of frustration rather than understanding.
5. Who This Book Is For
This book is not ideal for someone looking for step-by-step training instructions. It is better suited for guardians who want to understand their dog’s emotional world more deeply. It can be helpful for those who feel conflicted between seeing their dog as family and recognizing their needs as a different species.If you have ever questioned whether your loving actions might actually be stressful for your dog, this book offers a meaningful perspective.
Reflections
Today’s post shared my thoughts after reading What Makes Dogs Uncomfortable. The word “dog” initially felt unfamiliar and even uncomfortable, but learning to accept it became part of respecting Louie’s true nature. Loving him as family also means honoring his instincts as a dog.Two lines from the book stayed with me: “Problems begin at home and are reinforced outside,” and “Move as slowly as possible.” As I continue life with Louie, I hope to understand him better and create a calmer, happier environment together. If you have read this book, I would love to hear which parts stood out to you.