Dogs truly deserve the title of “man’s best friend.” These loyal companions are always ready for any adventure and will happily accompany their humans wherever they go. They stand by us through both good times and bad, as well as during the mundane moments of daily life. While some dogs form a strong bond with their owners immediately, others may need a bit more time and patience to learn to trust.
Here are five strategies to strengthen your bond with your dog and create a deeper connection.
The Importance of Bonding With Your Dog:
Dogs have coexisted with humans for thousands of years. These domesticated animals not only love spending time with us but also depend on us for their well-being. Building a bond with your dog is a crucial part of pet ownership, and having a loving, supportive canine companion at home can significantly boost your mental health.
“A strong bond leads to a happier dog,” says Em Muench, a professional dog trainer and founder of Barkology Dog Training in Des Moines, Iowa. “Dogs are social creatures that thrive on interaction and companionship. When they feel a connection with their owner, they are less likely to experience stress, anxiety, or behavioral issues, resulting in a more rewarding life for both the dog and the owner.”
Create A Routine:
Like humans, dogs are creatures of habit. Maintaining a consistent schedule can help them feel more comfortable, especially when they’re adjusting to a new environment. Routines can also aid in training, such as teaching your puppy to go potty outside. Feeding, walking, and playing with your dog around the same time each day is an excellent way to establish this routine.
Meet Their Physical and Mental Needs:
Dogs can’t walk themselves or access the pantry (thankfully), which means it’s essential for pet owners to meet their physical and mental needs. These needs can vary based on factors like age, breed, and health. However, at the very least, pet owners should always ensure their dogs have fresh water, nutritious food, regular exercise opportunities, and mental stimulation through puzzle toys, training, and interactive play.
Understand Their Cues:
Dogs may not speak, but they certainly communicate in other ways. By learning to interpret their body language and behaviors, pet owners can gain insight into their dogs’ feelings and needs, according to Muench.
“One of my favorite quotes is, ‘Your dog isn’t giving you a hard time—they’re having a hard time,’” Muench explains. This highlights how we can sometimes miss how dogs perceive their surroundings. Understanding their signals can help us support them in a human-centric world.
For example, a wagging tail can indicate excitement, but the way they wag differs based on their mood. A joyful wag when you come home contrasts with the relaxed wag of a dog enjoying a park walk. When uncomfortable, dogs may display appeasement behaviors like yawning, lip licking, or avoiding eye contact.
Advocate for Your Dog and Their Needs:
Dogs, like humans, have unique personalities with their own preferences and quirks. Some enjoy playing at the dog park, while others prefer solitude. Some love affection, while others keep their distance. Similarly, some are comfortable around young children, while others prefer older teens and adults.
Take the time to understand your dog’s individual needs to help avoid situations that may cause fear or anxiety. Don’t hesitate to advocate for them, such as asking strangers not to approach if your dog is uncomfortable.
“When dogs know they can rely on their owners to stand up for them, it fosters trust, leading to a happier and more at-ease pet,” Muench explains.
Use Reward-Based Training:
A great way to build trust with your dog is through clear communication, which is most effectively done using reward-based training. Dogs don’t automatically understand how you want them to behave, but when you reward specific actions with treats, praise, or toys, you signal to them that they’re doing the right thing. Over time, this positive reinforcement helps your dog grasp your expectations, benefiting both of you.
Strong connections lead to confident, well-behaved pets:
Ultimately, building a bond with your dog comes down to straightforward steps based on compassion, empathy, and understanding. Whether you’ve just adopted a puppy or rescued an older dog, try incorporating some of these tips at home to strengthen your relationship with your pet.
“The safer and more secure your dog feels with you, the more confident and well-behaved they will become,” Muench explains.
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