Understanding Drive in Dogs: Why Breed Matters

Have you ever wondered why your dog just won’t stop chasing squirrels, or why they’re obsessed with sniffing every inch of the park? You’re not alone. As professional dog trainers, one of the most overlooked concepts we see among dog owners is ‘drive’, an instinctive motivation that fuels a dog’s behaviour. Understanding drive is essential not just for solving behavioural problems, but for creating a fulfilling life for your dog.

What Is Drive in Dogs?

Drive is your dog’s internal engine. It’s what motivates them to chase, herd, sniff, guard, retrieve, or work tirelessly. It comes in many forms:

• Prey Drive: The urge to chase moving objects.
• Herding Drive: A desire to control movement, often seen in herding breeds.
• Hunting/Nose Drive: The instinct to track scents.
• Defense Drive: Protective instincts, commonly found in guarding breeds.
• Play Drive: Motivation through toys, tug games, or social interaction.

Why Breed Matters

Dog breeds were developed with specific jobs in mind. Border Collies herd, Beagles track scents, and Belgian Malinois protect. These jobs weren’t random, they were selected for traits like stamina, focus, and reactivity, which form the basis of your dog’s drive.

When these needs aren’t met, behavioural issues arise. Think destructive chewing, excessive barking, digging, or pulling on the leash, common problems that often stem because a dog’s drive is not being met or understood. Think of a time when you had a slow day, maybe you skipped your daily run, or didn’t get through your to-do list. By the end of the day, you probably felt uneasy, restless, or even irritable. That feeling of pent-up energy with nowhere to go? Dogs experience the same thing but unlike us, they don’t have the ability to choose how to release it. When a dog’s natural drive isn’t fulfilled, it often comes out as unwanted or destructive behaviour.

Common Behavior Problems Tied to an Unfulfilled Dog Drive

• High prey drive dogs may chase cars, bikes, or cats.
• Working dogs without mental stimulation become anxious or destructive.
• Guarding breeds may develop territorial aggression if not properly managed.

How to Match the Right Dog to Your Lifestyle

Before choosing a dog, consider:

• Your energy level and daily routine.
• How much time you can commit to training and exercise.
• What behaviours you can manage or redirect.

Understanding drive helps you choose a dog that fits your lifestyle and avoid frustration down the line.

If you’re struggling with your dog’s behavior, chances are their drive isn’t being fulfilled. The good news? You can change that. Learn how to work with your dog’s instincts instead of against them. Throw in daily 10-minute training sessions to give them that mental stimulation and watch your dog’s energy shift.

Download the Dogit app now and start your free 3-day trial to uncover your dog’s true potential through custom training based on their drive.