It’s no secret that dogs provide their carers with unconditional love. But do you show your dog you love them back in a way they understand?
They are always there to comfort us when we feel down. Always up for a play and constantly seek our love and attention. They are truly loyal and loving companions that deserve nothing less in return.
So, how do we show our faithful companions that we love and appreciate them in a language they understand?
Here are 5 simple ways to show your bestie you love them.
1. Good Nutrition
The most important gift we can give our dogs is a healthy, nutritious diet that provides them with all the goodness they need to live a healthy and happy life - free of pain and illness.
There is a lot of information out there on canine nutrition, some factual and some misleading. Our recommendation is to always look for science-based evidence when it comes to food for your dog.
Food and treats – Fresh is best. Home-made food and treats are a fast-growing craze with pet parents and for good reason. It's healthier than processed commercial foods and you can control what goes in their meal. And it's better for the hip pocket. Feel free to add in suitable veggies and all-natural human-grade supplements to support their overall well-being. Check out 10-anti-inflammatory foods that you can add to your dog’s diet.
Read more about Creating a Balanced Diet for Your Dog
2. Exercise
In addition to good nutrition, providing your pooch with appropriate exercise is vital for them to live a healthy and happy life.
Walking them daily (multiple times a day) should be the least of it. You can add in a little adventure to mix things up and get them excited. Exercise should benefit them physically and stimulate them mentally. Here are some suggestions that will show your dog you love them and keep them healthy and happy too.
Walking different tracks – mix up the direction of your walks. This allows your dog to explore new smells and see new things.
Playing fetch – with a ball or frisbee. A great way to keep them fit.
Off-leash dog park – allow your dog to run freely and socialise with other dogs.
Agility training – there are many agility courses available. They help provide your dog with training, structure, and mental stimulation.
Hiking – add a little adventure to your routine. Take then on a hike in the forest/national parks. The change of scenery and smells will fill your dog with excitement! They will see it as an adventure, stimulating every sense.
Swimming – not all breeds love the water, but most do. Taking them for a swim or just to simply play fetch in the shallows is a great way for your dog to exercise. Caution - Please ensure the water is free of strong currents. If your dog is overly excited and not used to being in the water, you may want to fit them with a doggy life jacket.
All these shared experiences are a great way to show your dog you love them. You are your dog’s carer and with new experiences, your dog will look to you for reassurance and direction. Thus building greater trust and connection between the both of you.
Read more about Benefits of Exercise for Dogs: Exercises to Boost Your Dog’s Health
3. Learn the Language of “Dog”
Taking the time to learn and understand your dog’s body language is a great way to provide your dog with support and guidance. If your dog knows you get them, it allows them to communicate confidently.
Pay attention: Your dog is communicating with you, you just need to stop and pay attention. They communicate through their body language, it’s important to learn their language. If they are engaged in an activity that makes them uncomfortable, feel unsafe or causes stress, stop it immediately. For example, they might not like playing with certain dogs. Or they may not like the water, or being cuddled.
Here are some easy-to-notice signs that your dog is not happy or is feeling stressed;
- Ears pulled back
- Nose and lip licking
- Yawning
- Drooling
- Cowering with tail tucked under
- Panting
- Trembling
- Increased vocalisation, whines, or whimpers.
- Looking away
- On the flip side you know you're on the right track when your dog;
- Has a high and waggy tail
- Eye contact
- Has relaxed floppy ears
- Looks into your eyes
- Has a relaxed body
- Has a playful attitude
- Gives you slurpy kisses
- Leans into you
These are signs of love, trust, and connection. Good for your dog and you!
Read more about Understanding Dog Body Language
4. Games and Tricks
Games – playing games such as fetch, hide and seek with treats, or tug of war is a great way to prevent boredom, and stimulate their mind and body.
Engaging with your dog in playtime is an important way to keep your bond strong. Even if it's 5 minutes a day, get on the floor and roll around with them. The happy endorphins will peak for both you and your pooch.
Tricks – continuous training is a great way to keep your dog mentally stimulated. In addition, it reinforces your leadership in the relationship. This helps your dog feel safe and cared for. It provides a one-on-one focused connection, leaving your dog feeling loved. Not to mention, the training treats are a bonus!
“A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.” — Josh Billings |
5. Spend Quality with Your Dog
Spending quality time with your pooch can benefit both of you! A great way to unwind and leave the day's stresses behind you. And enjoy some quality connection time, focused on nothing but love and appreciation.
The human touch - Spend time petting and talking to your dog. Simply touching your dog in a relaxing petting motion releases oxytocin in both you and your dog.
Massaging your dog’s ears is extremely relaxing for them. It puts them on cloud nine because it releases endorphins through their body. Show your dog you love them and spend a few minutes daily rubbing their belly, massaging their body, paws, and head. There are many benefits to massaging your dog. It can help relieve anxiety, ease joint pain and release tension.
Taking moments out of your day to engage with your dog on a positive level not only gives your dog the love and attention they crave from you, but its also beneficial for your health. There have been many studies over the years that show owning a dog and engaging with it responsibly is good for fitness, your heart, blood pressure, and mental health.
Read more Tips to keep your dog healthy and happy
Disclaimer: The entire contents of this email and website are not to be taken as medical advice. The team at Pet Squad Pty Ltd trading as PetWell encourages you to make your own pet healthcare decisions based on your research and in partnership with a qualified pet healthcare professional.
