Your dog showers you with affection on a daily basis and it’s clear that you hold a special place in his heart. How can you return the favor? Well, you can do everything in your power to make sure that he feels as loved and appreciated as you do!
Here are 10 tips to learn how to be your dog’s best friend:
- Become the Pack Leader
Dogs feel secure when they have someone in charge. Once you become your dog’s leader, you can teach her anything, says Russ Dillon, the owner of Dillon’s Dog Training in Omaha, Nebraska. “There’s a way to be both friend and leader,” he says. “We don’t want to break a dog’s spirit; we just want to get its respect.”
- Hang Out on the Floor
When you spend time with your dog at home, Dillon suggests that you get down on the floor (rather than elevate your pup to the couch). According to Dillon, your dog’s sense of power increases as you meet him at his eye level. Once you get down to your pet’s level, be sure to shower him with lots of love and affection.
- Go for Walks
Going for a walk gives your dog the opportunity to take in new and different scenery and smells, says Dillon. But before heading out for some exercise and fresh air, it’s important that you understand the length and frequency of walks that are appropriate for the type of dog you own.A puppy, for instance, isn’t supposed to go on long walks because the concrete can hurt her hips, says Dillon. Furthermore, high-energy dogs like collies will be more interested in going on longer walks than low-energy dogs such as bulldogs.
- Play Fetch
According to Dillon, dogs enjoy playing fetch with anything that they can get in their mouths and retrieve for you. So grab a tennis ball, bone, stick or any other appropriate toy and have some fun!
- Play Flyball
Flyball is a team sport that involves a doggie relay race. Just think of it as a more advanced version of fetch! For more fun activity ideas, check out 101 Things to Do With Your Dog.
- Praise Your Dog
Rather than resorting to treats, Dillon suggests that you praise your dog for good behavior. It’s important to make sure that you take every opportunity to make your pet feel good about all the wonderful things she does each day!
- Set Up a Playdate
Remember how cool it felt when you were younger and your mom let you hang out with your best friend? Well, your pet would love to have the same opportunity to bond with one of his canine companions!
- Do an Agility Course Together
According to Dillon, an agility course provides a great opportunity for you to have fun with your high-energy dog. You can participate in organized competitions or simply set up a course in your own yard. Either way, you get to soak up some quality bonding time.
- Play Hide-and-Seek
Dogs love showing off how good their noses are, says Dillon. So why not put your pet’s skills to the test by playing a classic game? You can sneak off to the perfect hiding spot and see if your pet can come find you. It’s bound to be fun!
- Kiss Your Dog — Often
As Dillon points out, “Most well-balanced dogs love the attention of getting kisses.” And, as expected, your furry friend also likes to be petted and simply enjoys being around you when you’re putting out positive vibes. “When we feel good and are happy to be around the dog, they can feel it,” says Dillon.
Can you think of any other tips on how to be your dog’s best friend? Let us know in the comments below!
Interested in learning how to be your dog’s best friend? Here are 10 things you can do to earn this coveted title!
