WOOD DOG
The Sargent: Alphas in the herd, leaders, high energy and drive, competitive, confident, active, athletic, alert, aware, fast-moving, have high stamina, and respond quickly to stimulus. The wood dogs are superstar performers but are sensitive to stress and tend to be aggressive and impatient. They are quite agile and love challenges, variety, speed, and movement. They are unflinching under pressure and will take charge if they see a weakness or an opening.
When the wood element is deficient, dogs can become easily angered and irritable, suffer from low self-confidence, becoming easily dominated.
When the wood element is excessive, wood dogs need clear boundaries from their pet parents. Being clear, consistent, and firm will easily earn respect from a wood dog. However, they will test us regularly just to be sure someone is in charge.
Breeds: Belgium Malinois, Jack Russell Terrier, Husky, Malamute, Cocker Spaniel, Springer Spaniel
Physical Characteristics: sleek, thin body, either tall or short, large eyes
Organs: Liver and Gall Bladder
Health Predispositions: On a physical level, the most important health need for the wood dog is movement. The common ailments and body parts affected by imbalances in which movement can both aid or hinder the wood dog are tendon and ligament injuries, muscle soreness, muscle tension, stiffness, swelling, aches and pains in joints, sluggishness, and lethargy. Wood dogs are prone to liver disease and allergies. They can often have eye, foot, and nail problems. Wood dogs are also prone to digestive issues and will vomit bile more often than other types.
The Aging Wood Dog: Needs enrichment activities. These dogs need to be gently engaged as they are unhappy with limitations in their aging bodies and tend to get frustrated and grumpy. Avoid physical pain by continued senior support of acupressure and massages, diet supporting their joints and livers, and mental stimulation to compensate for their slower movements.
