Everybody has different ideas on how to raise dogs and kids. I reckon most folks are successful at both.
To me, a dog is absolutely "just a dog." Not my best friend, not my kid, not an equal...he's a dog. He's here because I though he'd be fun/useful. If he stops being those things, well...
This holds true for all animals. I have a cat that I keep because cats are hell on mice, snakes, and insects; and because I occasionally get a dopamine hit from him purring in my lap on a cold day. I have chickens that will lay eggs. They get enough sustenance and support to allow them to fulfil their roles. I'm concerned about their happiness to the extent that it impacts performance.
Dogs are highly social animals. Part of their usefulness is the ability to integrate into our social circle. Socialization skills are heavily dependent upon proper exposure at developmental age. A socialized dog is a useful dog. A over-crated dog is not usually socialized.
To me, a dog is absolutely "just a dog." Not my best friend, not my kid, not an equal...he's a dog. He's here because I though he'd be fun/useful. If he stops being those things, well...
This holds true for all animals. I have a cat that I keep because cats are hell on mice, snakes, and insects; and because I occasionally get a dopamine hit from him purring in my lap on a cold day. I have chickens that will lay eggs. They get enough sustenance and support to allow them to fulfil their roles. I'm concerned about their happiness to the extent that it impacts performance.
Dogs are highly social animals. Part of their usefulness is the ability to integrate into our social circle. Socialization skills are heavily dependent upon proper exposure at developmental age. A socialized dog is a useful dog. A over-crated dog is not usually socialized.