They’re *ALL* Good Dogs, Bront: Understanding the Reality of 21st Century Pets

A recent post from the "David Attenborough Fans" Facebook group has captured significant attention, highlighting a crucial message for prospective dog owners. Posted on June 15th, the message aims to educate people about the realities of owning a dog in today’s world. The post creatively personifies different dog breeds, giving them a voice to express their natural instincts and how these clash with modern lifestyles.

**"I am a 21st century dog,"** the post begins, followed by a series of bullet points where various breeds describe their historical roles and the challenges they face today.

- **Malinois:** "Overskilled among dogs, I excel in all disciplines and I’m always ready to work: I NEED to work. But nowadays I get asked to chill on the couch all day every day."

- **Akita Inu:** "My ancestors were selected for fighting bears. Today I get asked to be tolerant and I get scolded for my reactivity when another approaches me."

- **Beagle:** "When I chase my prey, I raise my voice so the hunters could follow. Today they put an electric collar on me to shut up, and you m*********** back to you - no running - with a snap of your fingers."

- **Yorkshire Terrier:** "I was a terrifying rat hunter in English mines. Today they think I can’t use my legs and they always hold me in their arms."

- **Labrador Retriever:** "My vision of happiness is a dive into a pond to bring back the duck he shot to my master. Today you forget I’m a walking, running, swimming dog; as a result I’m fat, made to stay indoors, and to babysit."

The post’s conversational tone and poignant message have sparked a variety of reactions from the community. One user commented, "If you want a quiet sedentary dog, adopt a senior dog. They want a quiet spot to lay in the sun, and pass their time cuddling on the couch snoring and farting. They don't get adopted enough, but would love to spend their remaining years in a good quiet home."

This sentiment is echoed by others who emphasize that dogs are not accessories and require substantial commitment and care. As one user put it, "A lot of people get dogs as accessories, unfortunately... It's not hard to keep them happy, and in turn, they help keep YOU happy."

Another comment highlights the plight of high-energy dogs in low-stimulation environments, "My roommate's dog... it's a 60lb Australian Shepherd mix, it's non-stop energy that goes nowhere."

The post and its ensuing discussion underline the importance of understanding a dog’s needs before bringing one into a home. The message is clear: dogs, with their rich histories and instincts, deserve to have their physical and emotional needs met, ensuring they live fulfilling lives even in the 21st century.

For anyone considering adopting a dog, this post serves as an essential read to understand the responsibilities involved and to ensure a happy, healthy life for their future furry companions.