We all know that dogs are man’s best friend. But sometimes, even though we love our pets, we can take their loyalty and companionship for granted. Just like human relationships, a strong and lasting relationship with your dog requires a little extra effort from both sides. Here are seven tips to ensure your bond with your dog reaches new heights.
Plan one-on-one playtime together
The best way to form a strong bond with your dog is to spend intentional one-on-one time together, and most dogs agree that the best kind of time is playtime! If you have a busy schedule, be sure to schedule in a little bit of playtime every day. This can be as easy as 10 minutes of tug-o-war or as detailed as planning a road trip together. It’s important that your dog associates you with positive experiences that extend beyond simply being the person that feeds him...although he will love you for that too!
Exercise together
If you’re a big fan of multitasking, exercise with your dog to wear him out, get a workout in, and spend quality bonding time together. Walking, running, or biking together are all great ways to do this. You’ll have an automatic workout buddy and you’ll save money without the gym membership.
Nap together
While dogs do need their daily exercise, one-on-one time together doesn’t always have to be planned around activities. Laying on the couch together counts as important bonding time just as much as a game of fetch. Taking time to relax together helps to build trust between you and your pup, and nothing tops an afternoon nap with your favorite cuddle buddy!
Train your dog a little bit every day
Using positive reinforcement, be sure to set aside a little bit of time each day to train your dog. You can take this time to teach your dog new tricks or to revisit old ones. Learning together helps to form a stronger bond, and your dog will love that time together with you means treats or belly rubs.
Know your dog’s body language
Taking the time to observe your dog’s movements and actions can be hugely beneficial to you and your dog’s happiness, allowing you to recognize stress or discomfort, and respond to potential problems before they get worse. If you know your dog’s likes and dislikes, it’s much easier to make sure every experience together is a positive one and your dog feels understood and respected.
Use words and signals consistently
Just as it’s important for you to understand your dog, it’s important to make it easy for your dog to understand you. Be sure to use the same words and signals consistently while training your dog. The importance of consistency applies to rules too. Your dog will have a hard time understanding and trusting you if he’s allowed in the bedroom one day and punished for it the next day. Just like any relationship, effective communication is the key to success!
Talk to each other
In the end, you can still bond with your dog even if you don’t totally understand each other. Be sure to take time every day to just talk to your dog. Tell him about your day, your big promotion, or your deepest darkest secrets. Simply taking the time to talk directly to your dog (maybe adding in a head scratch!) won’t go unnoticed by your furry friend.