Dogs may experience confusion, grievance, fear, and even sulking after being hit by their owners. In severe cases, they might even hold a grudge or seek revenge.
The Range of Emotions After Physical Punishment
It's important to understand the emotional impact that physical punishment can have on your canine companion. Unlike humans, dogs don't necessarily understand the reasons behind physical correction, which can lead to a variety of negative feelings and behavioral issues.
Confusion
Many dogs are simply confused when they are physically punished. They may not understand why their owner is hitting them or what they did wrong. This confusion can lead to anxiety and uncertainty about the relationship with their owner.
Grievance
After being hit, many dogs feel like victims. They feel wronged, look at their owners with tearful eyes, and desperately try to understand why they were punished. This sense of grievance can damage their trust in you.
Fear
The most common reaction after being hit is fear. Dogs may hide from their owners for days, unwilling to come near. Severe physical punishment can even cause long-lasting psychological trauma. This fear can manifest as skittishness, excessive barking, or even aggression.
Sulking
Dogs often show their displeasure by sulking. They might believe they did nothing wrong, and respond to the punishment by becoming withdrawn, refusing to eat, and generally displaying low mood for several days as a form of protest.
Depression
Some dogs, especially those with gentle temperaments, can become depressed after being hit. Stubborn dogs may isolate themselves in corners, lose their appetite, and potentially develop depression. It is very important to be aware of these signs and seek help if you notice a significant change in your dog's behavior.
The Impact of Physical Punishment on a Dog’s Psychology
It's critical to remember that dogs learn through positive reinforcement. Physical punishment is not an effective or humane training method and can lead to long-term behavioral and emotional issues. Consistent training using treats, praise, and patience is a much healthier approach for building a strong and trusting bond with your canine companion. Avoid physical punishment to ensure your dog's emotional and mental health.