Are the Perspectives on Dog Ownership Really That Different Between the Past and Present?
Takashi Kanakura, a Japanese dog trainer, recently shared his insights as someone born during the Shōwa era (1926 to 1989). He vividly remembers how people cared for dogs in that period. According to him, some practices that were once considered normal back then now seem downright unbelievable when viewed from a modern standpoint.
Let's take a closer look at the significant changes in how dogs live and are treated today compared to decades ago.
Life with Dogs in the Past: A Glimpse into the Showa Era
Takashi Kanakura shared five common dog-raising scenes from the Showa era that might make the younger generation today exclaim, "Is that for real? Did it really happen like that before?"
- Dogs Lived Outside: Almost every household would tie their dog in the yard or at the doorway. Only a very small number of dogs were allowed inside the house.
- Dogs Ate Kitchen Scraps: Dogs' staple food was human leftovers. Plain rice with a drizzle of miso soup was already considered a luxury meal. Some families even raised dogs primarily to help dispose of kitchen scraps.
- No Leashes Needed When Going Out: Dogs were kept in a free-range manner; they could wander outside on their own, take a stroll, and then come back.
- Purebred Dogs Were Rare: People didn't pay much attention to dog breeds. Usually, if the neighbor's dog had puppies, they'd just ask, "Do you want one?" and bring them home.
- Scolding and Hitting Were Common: If the dog did something wrong, scolding and hitting were part of everyday life. People back then believed that was the way to properly teach them.
Dogs Living Outside: A Look at the Showa Era
During the Showa era in Japan, it was common for nearly every household to keep their dogs tied up in the yard or at the entrance of the home. Only a very small number of dogs were allowed inside the house. This practice reflected the lifestyle and cultural attitudes toward pets at the time, where dogs were often viewed more as guardians or outdoor companions than indoor family members.
Keeping dogs outside ensured they could guard the property, while also maintaining the cleanliness and order inside the home. This tradition also speaks to the architectural layout common during that period, where homes usually had enclosed yards or gates that made securing a dog outdoors practical and effective.
In contrast to modern times, when many dogs are considered part of the family and live indoors alongside their owners, the Showa era's approach highlights how societal values and living environments influence pet care practices over time.
Modern Life of Dogs
Jumping to the present day, you'll find that the living environment and treatment of dogs have undergone tremendous changes.
- Indoor Living: Nowadays, most dogs live indoors. They even have air conditioning to keep them cool, and often have their own beds, clothes, and toys, living in great comfort.
- Balanced Nutrition: Dogs now eat nutritionally balanced commercial food, with a huge variety of options available. Some owners even prepare homemade fresh meals, paying more attention to their dog's diet than their own.
- Oral Care Awareness: Dog owners now understand the importance of brushing their pets' teeth regularly, and there are even specialized veterinary dental clinics.
- Upgraded Grooming Services: Beyond basic haircuts and baths, dogs can enjoy luxury treatments such as carbonated spring baths and herbal mud SPAs.
- Pet-Friendly Facilities: On weekends, owners often take their furry companions out to dog parks, dog-friendly cafes, and other pet-friendly venues.
- Professional Advice: When facing problems, owners are increasingly willing to consult experts such as veterinarians and animal behaviorists.
- Medical Advances: Regular health check-ups and vaccinations have become routine, and veterinary clinics are equipped with increasingly advanced diagnostic tools and treatment standards.
Oral Care for Pets Becoming Common Knowledge
In modern times, pet owners are well aware of the importance of brushing their dogs' teeth regularly. What used to be an uncommon practice has now become a fundamental part of pet care routines. This widespread awareness reflects the growing recognition of oral health as an essential aspect of a dog's overall well-being.
Additionally, specialized veterinary dental clinics have emerged, offering professional dental care services tailored specifically for pets. These clinics provide treatments ranging from routine cleanings to more advanced dental procedures, ensuring that pets receive the same level of oral healthcare as humans.
The rise of pet dental health awareness underscores a shift in how society values animal health, encouraging responsible pet ownership and improving the quality of life for countless dogs and their families.
Upgraded Dog Grooming Services
In modern times, dog grooming has evolved far beyond basic haircuts and baths. Today, pet owners can treat their furry friends to a range of luxurious experiences designed to promote health and relaxation.
Alongside standard grooming services, many salons now offer advanced treatments such as carbonated spring baths and herbal mud spa therapies. These premium options not only enhance a dog's appearance but also contribute to their overall well-being by soothing the skin and improving circulation.
As the pet care industry continues to grow, such elevated grooming offerings reflect a trend towards treating pets with the same level of care and indulgence that humans enjoy. This upgrade in services ensures that dogs feel pampered, refreshed, and healthy after every visit.
Professional Consultation: Modern Dog Owners Increasingly Seek Expert Advice
In today's world, dog owners facing challenges are increasingly willing to consult experts such as veterinarians and animal behaviorists. This growing trend reflects a stronger commitment to their pets' well-being and a recognition of the value professional guidance can provide.
With more access to information and resources than ever before, modern pet owners understand the importance of addressing health or behavioral issues promptly and correctly. Turning to specialists helps ensure that dogs receive the best care tailored to their specific needs.
Whether it's concerns about illness, training difficulties, or behavioral changes, veterinarians and behavior experts play a crucial role in supporting both dogs and their owners. Their professional insights and experience contribute significantly to improving the quality of life for pets and strengthening the human-animal bond.
The Reasons Behind These Changes
What are the causes behind these changes? Takashi Kanakura points out that advances in medical care and nutrition have extended dogs' average lifespan, allowing them to live up to nearly twenty years.
As dogs accompany humans for longer periods, the emotional bond between them deepens. Gradually, dogs have shifted from their traditional role as guard dogs to becoming indispensable members of the family.
Respecting Every Generation in Dog Care: Embracing Understanding Over Debate
Takashi Kanakura emphasizes that respecting every generation means there is no need to argue about who is right or wrong. It is not to say that the older generation's ways are incorrect. Each era and every family has their own unique approach to caring for dogs, and this is completely normal.
Nowadays, with more options and greater knowledge available, we naturally choose methods that are more "dog-centered" to care for our furry friends. Therefore, there is no need to debate who is right or wrong. Instead, we should foster more understanding between generations.
The younger generation can learn more about the stories and traditions of the past, while the older generation can try to appreciate the thoughtful intentions behind modern practices. Only through this mutual understanding can we create a better life for our beloved pets together.
