10 Ways To Help Your Dog Be Happy
Your Dog Deserves To Live Their Best Life
Your four-legged friend is always there. Think about it: from the moment you wake up in the morning, your pup’s tail is wagging, just waiting to embark on a new day with you.
Then, when you get back from work, they’re over the moon that their person is home to play and cuddle with them. While we all have responsibilities and (unfortunately) don’t get to just hang out with our pups all day, it’s important to remember that you are your pet’s entire world.
Here Are 10 Ways To Help Your Dog Be Happy
Dogs show us unconditional love every minute of every day, even when we’re not around. So, it’s important to give your canine companion the same amount of care.
Here are 10 ways you can make your dog happier and even healthier with some simple additions to your routine.
1. Curate A Consistent Routine
Like many of us, dogs appreciate knowing what to expect during their day. Establishing a consistent routine can help them feel comfortable and secure.
So, when it comes to morning and evening walks, feeding, playtime, and bedtime, it’s best to stick to a regular schedule. This can decrease stress and anxiety, helping your pup feel more confident and relaxed during their day-to-day.
2. But Don’t Be Afraid To Switch It Up
With that being said, it can be beneficial to surprise your dog with new experiences. For instance, you can try out a new park or beach for a walk or take your four-legged friend to the pet store for some more mental stimulation.
Routine isn’t a bad thing, but no excitement can lead to a duller life for your dog. To avoid things from becoming stale, try to incorporate something fresh (even if it’s just a new treat flavor) into your schedule.
3. Prioritize Play Time And Exercise
Canines need to get enough exercise, and depending on your pet’s breed, their exercise requirements may be quite high. Don’t neglect regular walks, and you can always let them run around your backyard to get their energy out.
Plus, remember that playtime can seriously boost your pup’s mood. Toss a ball around for a good old-fashioned game of fetch or play tug of war with a rope toy. These activities will both support your dog’s physical health and strengthen your human-dog bond.
4. Keep Rotating Toys
It’s not rare for children to get bored with the same old toys. Canines are no different! However, you don’t have to run out and buy a brand-new plush toy or pack of tennis balls each week.
Instead, you can divide your pet’s toy collection in half and rotate them on a regular basis. When you reintroduce a toy, even if it’s old, your pup will feel excited about it all over again. This keeps things exciting, engaging, and mentally stimulating.
5. Provide Entertainment When They’re Home Alone
How would you feel if your best friend left you home alone while they went to work every single day with nothing fun to do? Probably not good!
To maintain your dog’s happiness, leave them with some entertainment. Certain canines enjoy listening to music or even watching TV. Meanwhile, others really benefit from interactive toys, such as slow-feeder treat dispensers and puzzles.
Dogs are pack animals that can suffer from stress or separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods of time. These activities can stimulate your pet and keep them busy.
6. Carve Out Bonding Time
I get it: we all have busy schedules. But that doesn’t mean we should neglect quality bonding time with our pets.
Canines are highly social creatures that thrive under your attention. So, whenever you can, incorporate them into your daily routine. This may include cuddling on the couch after a long day, giving them pets, or simply sitting together.
7. Continue Training
Once a puppy has learned the basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” or “drop it,” many dog owners stop the training process. Yet, continuing to train your dog as they get older is an exciting way to keep them entertained and challenge their mind.
You can set out to teach your dog a new skill, like walking off-leash, to increase their confidence and give them even more one-on-one attention in the process.
8. Praise Good Behavior
Also, throughout training and other regular activities, don’t forget to praise your dog’s good behavior! Again, dogs do best when they’re afforded plenty of affection and attention.
Not to mention, those who feel understood and appreciated are less likely to act out or develop behavioral issues. Belly rubs, a pat on the head, or just saying “good dog” are all easy ways to show your approval.
9. Let Them Follow Their Instincts
Have you ever been out on a walk and gotten frustrated when your dog wanted to stop and sniff every single bush, curb, or pole? It can be bothersome if you’re on a time crunch, I know.
Nonetheless, allowing your pup to follow their sense of smell is crucial. After all, it’s mainly how they explore the world! It’s also mentally stimulating and gives your pet a sense of purpose.
Whenever time allows, give them some extra time to sniff and investigate. This simple technique can help them feel in control and adventurous.
10. Schedule Socialization
Last but not least, give your pup plenty of opportunities to socialize with other furry friends. Playing with other dogs will keep your pup entertained and physically active. On top of that, they will learn good manners and how to cope in different social environments.
You can start by introducing your dog to other canines during walks. Then, begin bringing them to dog parks or puppy playdates to foster positive, fun, and mentally stimulating interactions.
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