You might remember the famously funny scene from 'Shrek' where the world's most grossly misunderstood ogre explains to Donkey, 'Ogres are like onions... we have layers.'
Well, as it turns out, dogs are remarkably similar.
Dogs, just like onions (and ogres!), are often grossly misunderstood beings composed of multiple intricate layers (or ecosystems) that rely on one another in order to thrive fully.
And today, I want to spend some time peeling back those layers to show you just how significant they are in ensuring that dog's live a long and prosperous life.
A Dog's 'Layers' Explained
Layer 1: The Physical Shell
The outermost layer is what we see first - the coat, skin, and physical appearance.
Much like an onion's papery exterior, this outer layer is an incredibly fragile piece one. The slightest trauma could tear, rip and expose the onion to external environments, that if we are not careful, will slowly begin to rot the inner layers.
To ensure we keep a dog protected, we must fully acknowledge that the dog's skin and hair are essentially the foundation of overall wellness, since it is the largest of the dog's organs, covering the entirety of the dog.
Of course, this superficial albeit, delicate layer is merely the tip of the iceberg - what is happening underneath that the eyes cannot so easily see?
Layer 2: The Physiological Systems
Beneath the surface lies an intricate network of bodily systems - digestive, nervous, immune, and more.
Each system doesn't work in isolation but functions as part of a greater whole.
When we understand this layer, we can understand why any form of trauma to the skin from the external environment can also impact gut health, or cause an array of physical symptoms as well.we realise why a skin issue might actually stem from gut health or why stress can manifest as physical symptoms.
Equally, we can also understand why a skin issue might actually stem from gut health or why stress can manifest as physical symptoms.
Both internal and external environments are equally significant when it comes to wellness, since both are interlinked and connected.
Layer 3: The Emotional Core
Dogs experience a rich tapestry of emotions - joy, fear, anxiety, contentment, love, grief, anger, even anticipation.
This emotional layer influences and is influenced by all other layers.
A dog's emotional state can impact their physical health, just as physical discomfort can affect their emotional well-being.
They are one and the same.
Layer 4: The Social Being
Dogs are inherently social creatures with complex relationships - not just with their human families and other family pets but also with their surrounding environment.
This social layer affects how they interact, learn, and respond to various situations which in turn can influence the physical, emotional and physiological systems.
Layer 5: The Individual Spirit
At the very core, each dog possesses a unique personality and spirit - their individual 'doglyness' that makes them unapologetically and instinctively who they are.
No two dogs are exactly alike, just as no two onions have identical patterns in their rings.
Therefore, we can begin to appreciate just how special and unique each of our dogs are and how they leave such a big hole in our lives and hearts when they pass on.
Why Understanding These Layers Matters
When we approach dog care with a 'one-size-fits-all' mentality, we're essentially treating all onions as if they're identical.
But any chef will tell you that different varieties of onions have distinct characteristics, and even onions of the same variety can vary in intensity and flavour.
Take red onions for example - they are sweet and great for spicy dishes or salads compared to the white variety that are often used for soups and fry-ups.
Similarly, each dog represents its own ecosystem - a complex interplay of all these layers working together in tandem, communicating to one another in parallel universes, each relying on the other to keep healthy and safe.
For example:
A skin condition might not just need topical treatment but could require addressing diet, stress levels, and environmental factors.
A behavioural issue might not be solved by training alone but might need a holistic approach that considers physical health and social dynamics.
A gut problem might not be solved with nutrition alone but may require a more in-depth look at how the dog feels emotionally.
The Holistic Approach
This layered complexity is why a holistic approach to dog care is so crucial.
When we care for dogs, we really need to:
Consider how each layer impacts the others
Recognise that any changes (regardless of how small) in one area can ripple through all systems and affect the whole being
Understand that healing or improvement might need to address multiple layers which may require an entire community of professionals to address
Appreciate that each dog's unique combination of layers requires an individualised approach that is open to experimentation and adaption as things progress and/or take a step back
Just as an onion reveals its complexity layer by layer, understanding our dogs requires us not only to look at the surface but beyond it too, and appreciate the intricate symphony of systems, emotions, and characteristics that make each dog unique and beautiful.
The Next Time You Look at Your Dog...
Remember the onion analogy.
Take a moment to consider all the layers that make them who they are.
Ask yourself:
Are you and those responsible for caring for the dog addressing each layer in the care routine?
Are you and those responsible for caring for the dog truly seeing them as the complex, multi-faceted being that requires a consistent and holistic approach?
Because just like Shrek's onion, the more layers you peel back, the more you understand fully the reason why dogs are worthy of our admiration, respect and love.
But also, the better equipped we all become in providing the best possible service of care they need and deserve.
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