Dog training and comedy in one evening: in his stage program, Martin Rütter gives dog owners tips on how to train their dogs better and does so in a funny way. We spoke to him about his recipe for success, love of animals and animals as a Christmas present.
You are already coming to the Hallenstadion Zurich with your third stage program "nachSITZen". What is it about?
Detention is for the dog owners, not the dogs. The program deals with dog training in a funny way: we go through the alphabet of dog training and cover a wide range of questions.
What's the biggest mistake dog owners make?
There are three things: firstly, not always being consistent. Secondly, people humanize dogs. And the last point is that dogs often don't get enough mental input and therefore aren't kept busy enough. This can frustrate dogs.
You have four children and two dogs. What is the difference between raising children and raising dogs?
In my opinion, I had a big advantage in raising my children because I had already been involved with the dogs beforehand. I believe that the structures in dog and human families are similar and that both children and dogs need clear rules. The only difference is that with children we work towards independence and with dogs we want them to remain dependent on us to a certain extent.
When does dog love go too far?
Whenever a dog can't be a dog. A client of mine buys his dogs expensive designer beds, but the dogs feel comfortable in them. But if someone squeezes their dog into a dirndl, for example, and they can no longer communicate and don't feel comfortable, that's when the fun stops for me.
Many children want a pet for Christmas. What needs to be considered?
Animals are never a gift. All family members must be equally keen. The main responsibility for the animal always lies with the parents. And if you really want a dog, you should go to an animal shelter. There are lots of great dogs in shelters, it doesn't always have to be a breeding puppy.
MARTIN RÜTTER
21.1.17, Hallenstadion Zurich
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