How To Let Your Dog Know You Love Them

Just as you'd snuggle a baby, feed them, change their diapers, and sing them little songs before bedtime, you can offer nearly the same care and attention to your pet. Dogs aren't human, of course, but these special creatures thrive in similar ways when you shower them with love. Your dog knows you love them since they probably show you in several physical ways, from wagging their tail and dropping toys at your feet to nestling close to you on the couch.

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Your dog wants to behave and please you with their mastery of tricks and cues. To accomplish this, sign up your pet for training sessions with a trainer that uses positive reinforcement techniques. as soon as they're the right age or when you bring home an older rescue animal. A well-trained dog is happy and tired, which means they won't wander the house in a bored state looking for a table leg or TV remote to chew. Depending on the breed you own, you might look into special dog classes, like agility training, herding, or dock diving, as these next-level activities challenge your dog both mentally and physically.

Entering the house and flopping down to turn on the news isn't the best way to say hello to your pet or to show your love after several hours away. Instead, to give your affection, focus your full attention on their sweet face, gazing into their eyes and speaking to them softly about your day or about how cute they are.

Once you've greeted them, decide on a few other fun ways to spend time with your dog. You might lay on the floor with them and rub their belly or toss a ball in the backyard. Challenging toys that squeak or hold a tasty morsel inside are also smart ways to show love. A walk may be next, or you could head to the dog run so they can interact with other canines.

Your dog's health matters a great deal, and even though they may balk at visiting the veterinarian, by taking them there, you're showing you care deeply. Most dogs who romp in nature, including on the beach, in long grasses, and through the woods, are probably candidates for flea and tick medication. A veterinarian can also help you microchip your dog so they don't get lost if they escape your yard or the leash. By checking in with a veterinarian, you can learn which food is best for their breed, how many treats to offer, and which table scraps are fine to give — and which are not.

Bathing, brushing, clipping nails, and brushing your dog's teeth are a few more ways you can physically demonstrate love for your dog. Gather the proper supplies based on the type of dog you own and learn how to use each of them. Are you not sure if you're ready to brush a dog's (sort of sharp) teeth? Your veterinarian can demonstrate a good technique. If your resources allow it, you might send your dog to a day spa once in a while for special grooming services as well as dog daycare, playtime, and more.

Making your own dog food is a rather big endeavor, but whipping up homemade dog treats is a smaller way to offer something nutritious and delicious to your pet. The easiest way to treat your dog is to freeze a yummy liquid, like no-salt-added beef broth, in an ice cube tray. Cut-up fruit is also a welcome sweet treat, such as watermelon or cantaloupe. Are you feeling more ambitious in the kitchen? Mix frozen bananas and plain yogurt to freeze on a stick and then give one to your dog after a long play session.