A Pomsky Dog’s Natural Instincts from their Wolf Background

Have you ever observed situations when your pomsky dog acts like they are out in the wild hunting squirrels or sniffing the ground to track animals? Pomsky dogs have many traits passed down from their wolf ancestors. Find out which traits found in pomsky dogs align with their wolf ancestors and learn the best ways to channel your pomsky dog’s energy and instincts into fun playtime activities.

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Hunting Instincts and Chasing Prey

Dogs have a natural hunting drive that causes them to sniff and chase prey such as squirrels, chipmunks and rabbits. Pomskies will often stop and slow their walking to sneak up on their prey. Pomsky dogs also sniff the ground to track where other animals have walked. Pomsky dogs enjoy using all their senses to locate their target and chase after them. Playing fetch, hiding treats and toys around the house and a variety of other activities (listed at the end of this post) can be used to let your pomsky release their inner hunter.

Being Part of a Pack

Dogs are naturally social animals and descend from the wolf, who relied on being a member of their pack for survival. Each wolf pack has a leader, known as the Alpha, and dogs typically still believe there is a pack leader. It is important that pomsky dog owners establish themselves as the Alpha, so their pomsky puppy knows who to listen to. Pomsky dogs thrive when they have a social connection with people and other dogs. This social connection provides opportunities to learn how to cooperate with others and strengthen their relationship with members of their pack (or in this case, your family).

Digging Instincts

Have you ever wondered why pomsky dogs like to dig? Digging and burrowing are instincts that have been passed down to your dog from their ancestors who needed to dig to find food, hide their food, or to make a place to lie down. Instead of preventing your dog from digging, give them a specific area where they can dig freely without harming your furniture, carpet or garden. (See specific ideas at the end of this post).

Body Language Signals

Dogs communicate their feelings, thoughts and intentions through their body language. A pomsky dog’s body language can include the way they look at you, their tail position, their mouth and teeth, and their overall body posture. Pomsky dog owners will learn the meaning of their pomsky’s body language over time and recognize when their pomsky dog is happy and calm, versus when they are uncomfortable, stressed or afraid. Pomsky dogs can also communicate through vocalizations such as whining or barking. Playful whining or barking will sound significantly different than a warning bark or whine.

Guarding or Being Territorial

Pomsky dogs can be territorial or want to guard certain things that are important to them. Your dog might feel protective about their home, toys or people in your family. Being territorial is a natural instinct that your dog’s ancestors used to protect their home and pack members from threats in the wild. It is important that you start training your pomsky puppy from the beginning, so they do not become territorial or aggressive when protecting things that are important to them. For example, if your pomsky growls at you when you try to take a toy or food away from them, you can start training your pomsky to accept the removal of these items. While your dog is chewing on a toy, such as a Kong Goodie Ribbon or Nylon bone, put your hand between their mouth and the bone, or slowly pull the toy to the side. If your pomsky accepts you taking the toy away without any aggressive/protective behavior, provide verbal praise or treats, then give them the toy back. Keep practicing this until your dog is able to give up the toy without any behaviors. You can also do this with your dog’s food bowl.

Ability to Problem Solve

Pomsky dogs are very intelligent and have strong problem-solving skills that were passed down from their wolf ancestors. Pomsky dogs use their cognitive skills to adapt to new situations and find solutions to problems. A great example of ways pomsky use their problem-solving skills is when they solve puzzle toys. Pomsky dogs may also find ways to sneak out of fenced areas or play pens. You can keep your pomsky entertained by teaching them new tricks, commands or fun games that require them to problem solve.

How to Channel a Pomsky Dog’s Instincts into Playtime

Playing Fetch: Fetch allows your dog to chase after toys, similar to the way their ancestors chased after prey. Your dog also has to use their problem solving skills to determine which direction the toy went, and how they will get there (especially if you throw a toy out of sight).
Hide and Seek: Hide your dog’s toys or plastic Easter eggs filled with treats around your house and let your dog sniff them out. This will fulfill your pomsky dog’s need to hunt and includes both physical and mental exercise.
Puzzle Toys and Treat Toys: A puzzle toy, treat releasing ball or other rubber treat stuffing toys can be used to channel your dog’s need to hunt and problem solve. They will need to work hard to earn their treats, similar to the way wolves had to hunt or dig to find food.
Teaching Basic Commands: When you teach your pomsky dog to sit, they understand that you are the alpha of the pack. Teaching your pomsky dog a variety of commands is a good social experience. Your dog will learn that words you say carry meaning, and they should respond in a way to receive rewards and praise.
Digging: Create an area where your dog can dig such as a small sandbox outside or a snuffle mat or rolled up towel inside. There are some toys that are specifically designed for dog’s who like to dig and burrow such as the Hide a Squirrel dog toy or the iDig mat.

Summary

Pomsky Dogs have many natural instincts passed down from their wolf background including hunting, digging, using their body language to communicate and their problem-solving skills. When your dog’s instincts are channeled into play time and social experiences, they will be less destructive and understand when and where certain skills can be used.