How to Let Your Dog Know You Love Them
Your dog, often forgotten in the shuffle of everyday life, cries out for your affection. The experts seem to be split on whether dogs can actually love in a sophisticated way. But whether you call it love or survival instincts, he acts so loyal and accepting -- and you're holding all the treats and attention. You're probably compelled to return the favor as often as possible. But besides setting up a regimen of exercise and interaction, there are several things you can do to bring a sense of love and wonder into your dog's life.
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Include your dog in family activities and you'll instill in them that they're a valued member of the group. Most parks allow pets on leashes and some have special areas just for dogs. Not every occasion will permit you to bring your dog, of course, but many will. According to Trip Base, the benefits of bringing your dog on vacation are many. In a strange city, a dog's urge to investigate will only intensify, meaning you'll do more sightseeing and perhaps more interacting with the locals, what with your adorable conversation piece by your side. And who wants to pay a kennel fee?
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Buy your dog a new toy or treat. A new type of treat when your pooch is being well-behaved will make him feel special and will also continue to reinforce good behavior. Give him some good pieces of meat off the dinner table, too, from time to time to make him feel even more included.
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Improve your dog's chances for living a long, healthy life by varying his exercise routine. You should already know that regular walks will improve a dog (and his master's) health. But there are dozens of other ways to keep Fido fit, like playing Frisbee or fetch. And your dog will realize that when you load him in the car he also gets to do fun things and not just visit the vet.
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Cuddle your pup like they cuddle with you. Dogs are social creatures and respond to contact just like we do. Dogs instinctively show affection toward the animals they perceive as dominant to them, according to the Sarah's Dogs website. So why not return the favor to make them feel on more equal footing. This can include petting, hugging, wrestling and tug-of-war.
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Talk to your dog in sweet tones, unless disciplining him for bad behavior. Everyone knows it: talking one way sinks a tail, and another way sets a tail wagging. Wagging tail equals happy dog.
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Create a special place for your dog to relax, inside and out. Instinctively, dogs feel more comfortable in a cubby that provides security when trying to sleep, or protection from the elements when lounging around outdoors.
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