How to Make Your Dog Love You

All dog owners experience that feeling of guilt while they spend a long day at work, knowing their dog is home alone. The guilt also strikes when a dog gives its owner that eager stare with a tennis ball in his mouth, ready to play, while the owner just wants to relax on the couch. The begging whimper that many dogs vocalize while their owner throws away the scraps from a juicy steak is enough to make any dog owner question their dog’s feelings toward them. By following these simple steps, dog owners can feel certain that their dogs love them.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Leash
• Dog treats
• Dog toys
• Dog bed

1. Keep your dog healthy. While your dog may not seem overjoyed to go to the vet and get poked and prodded, he’ll thank you later when he’s happy and healthy. Also pay attention to little annoyances such as long toenails or an overgrown coat. Keeping your dog’s health and daily grooming in check makes your dog happier and more excited to be with you.

2. Keep the discipline but allow for the occasional spoil. While your dog shouldn’t be fed table scraps, an occasional treat would be appreciated. Experiment with treats by buying several brands and giving your dog different types. You can even make them yourself. Don’t just give a treat as a reward or a habit; give them randomly when they’re unexpected.

3. Play fetch. After your dog has been alone all day, he just wants some interaction. Luckily for you, fetch just requires you to lie on the couch and throw the ball once it’s been dropped in your hand. Your dog will have a blast playing, and you won’t even have to put in too much effort.

4. Take him with you whenever possible. After being cooped up in the same house, a ride in the car with you to the gas station sounds like the highlight of the day. Bring your dog with you to a friend’s house or on a walk around the block if possible.

5. Get down on your dog’s level. Many dog owners don’t allow their dogs on the couch or bed, which is an understandable house rule. Get your dog his own dog bed, find a good place on the floor for it and visit him down there frequently. Dogs love to know they’re wanted, and what better way to show that than by hopping on the floor and cuddling with your dog on his territory.

6. Let your dog socialize. Imagine going a whole week without interacting with any human beings. That would be pretty boring and lonely, huh? That’s what your dog has to deal with if you don’t take him to the park to play. Give him an hour or two each Saturday or Sunday morning to play with other dogs and other humans, too. He’ll love you for it.

Tips & Warnings

• Check out your local county's website for dog park information in your area.

Resources

• Make your own dog treats