How Dogs Learn (Lesson 1): Genetics – How Your Dog’s Breed and Biology Shape Behaviour

Understanding the blueprint behind every bark, bounce, and bite...

Jun 02, 2025

There’s an old saying in dog training: “You get the dog you get, but you train the dog you want.”

But what if the dog you “got” is a whirlwind of instincts, drive, and energy you weren’t ready for? What if your dog’s behaviour isn’t just about training, but about the DNA hardwired into every cell of their being?

Let’s talk about genetics—and why understanding your dog’s biological blueprint is the foundation for effective training and a harmonious relationship.

Nature Before Nurture: A Real-Life Example

When I brought Piper home, she was already one year old—a Dutch Shepherd and German Shepherd cross from strong working lines. A beautiful, alert, fire-in-her-veins kind of dog. The kind of dog that doesn’t just need a job, she demands one.

Piper didn’t come with a manual, but she came with a story—and a set of genetic instructions that dictated much of her behavior. Her prey drive was high. Her sensitivity to environmental changes was sharp. Her energy was nearly endless. This wasn’t a “walk twice a day and cuddle on the couch” kind of dog. She was built to work, to move, to respond quickly, to think independently, and sometimes to challenge authority.

For the first few weeks, I felt like I had brought a storm into my home. But once I understood why she behaved the way she did—once I connected her behaviour to her genetics—I stopped trying to train her like a golden retriever or a lab. I started training Piper.

That changed everything.

Why Genetics Matter in Training

Dogs were bred for specific jobs. Herding, guarding, retrieving, scent work, companionship—their roles were written into their genes long before they entered our homes. This means:

A Border Collie may obsessively chase movement—not because she’s being “bad,” but because she’s hardwired to herd.
A scent hound may ignore recall—not out of defiance, but because his nose pulls harder than your voice.
A Belgian Malinois, like Piper’s Dutch Shepherd cousins, will struggle in suburban life without real outlets for their intensity and drive.

Genetics are not destiny—but they are direction. They provide the framework we work within. Ignoring them can lead to frustration. Embracing them? That’s where the magic starts.

Redemption in the Wild Ones

As I worked with Piper, I realized she wasn’t just helping me train her—she was helping reshape me. On the hard days, when she tested every ounce of my patience, I had to dig deep into compassion. On the good days, I saw the beauty of what she was meant to do come to life.

And somewhere in between, I felt something deeper: the sense that we were both being refined—her through structure and guidance, me through grace and perseverance.

There’s something sacred about that kind of relationship. A mirror held up by a dog, showing you who you really are—and who you’re becoming.

Key Takeaways

Genetics set the stage for your dog’s behaviour.
Training should honor your dog’s breed instincts, not fight against them.
Understanding your dog’s genetic drives helps you avoid frustration and build better training plans.
Working with breed-specific traits creates a more fulfilling relationship—one built on clarity, not conflict.

Join the Conversation

What’s your dog’s breed mix or background? Have you seen their instincts show up in unexpected ways? Share your story in the comments—I’d love to hear how genetics have shaped your journey with your dog.

Next Steps

If this post resonated with you, you’ll love what’s coming next. This 10-part series is just the beginning of a deeper dive into how your dog thinks, learns, and thrives. The next lessons will explore environment, reinforcement history, operant and classical conditioning, motivation, and more.

🎥 I’ll also be linking each article with short, actionable video demonstrations to bring the lessons to life.

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