5 Ways To Bond With Your Dog
Dogs are known as man’s best friend for a reason – they can provide us with endless love and companionship, becoming like family members. But how can you be sure you’re building a strong, mutual bond with your dog that will stand the test of time?
While every dog is different, here are a few things that can help you bond with your furry friend:
Playtime and Cuddles
Whether you’re playing at the park or napping on the couch together, quality time with your dog can reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, and boost levels of oxytocin, the “love hormone.” Snuggling with your dog can also help to build a stronger bond between you and provide an opportunity for some much-needed rest and relaxation. Some dogs prefer playing and getting treats over cuddling and being pet. Plus, playing with your dog can promote socialization and provide valuable exercise for both you and your pet.
Get Into A Solid Routine
Dogs – just like humans – are creatures of habit, which means they thrive on routine and predictability. A solid, daily routine can help your dog feel safe and secure. Dogs learn in pictures, and a routine shows them what to expect.
For example, a dog that is used to going for walks after work might get excited when you jingle your keys because you do that every day before heading out. Likewise, a dog might get excited hearing bowls being moved around and the coffee brewing because they are used to getting fed after you’ve had your morning cup of joe. When your dog knows what to expect each day, they can relax and enjoy a sense of stability. In turn, this will make them a happier and more well-adjusted companion.
Establish Boundaries
Setting boundaries for your dog is essential to creating a harmonious home. Take the time as a family to discuss which areas in the house your pup is allowed to roam freely in, as well as behaviors you will accept, like jumping up and begging at the table. With consistency in enforcing these expectations, you can expect to see respect grow between you and your dog, strengthening your bond and increasing your trust in each other.
Train with Them!
Communication is important in any relationship. Training gives you the ability to communicate effectively with your dog and can help or even prevent the type of unwanted behaviors that would otherwise strain your relationship. Training also shows your dog how they can get their own needs met through following your direction. And don’t forget, teaching your dog new tricks and skills will not only be fun and stimulating for your dog, it will also help satisfy their need for a job – you dog will thank you for it!
Go Somewhere New / Try Something New
Speaking of training, having better communication and recall with your dog means going on more adventures! Exploring new settings and tackling fresh obstacles can help solidify your bond while building trust between you and your faithful friend. With some pups being more confident than others, your pup might need an extra helping hand on new adventures, so make sure you’re prepared by practicing those skills ahead of time. If your pup does great at home, but struggles in public, consider reaching out to an experienced professional.
By spending time with your furry companion, you will build trust, communication, and respect which are key components to a healthy relationship and bond between human and dog.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s unleash your pup’s full potential!