6 Top Tips on Connecting with your Dog

Try to spend 10- 30 minutes a day with your dog. Exercises like playing or walking release endorphins and there is no quicker way to create a connection than having a happy dog. When walking your dog outside, be aware of how your dog behaves and how he reacts to certain things. Let your dog rest on you in the evening when you can. Searching for physical contact is a way for him to show affection and if you offer it to him, then he will surely be pleased. Think about what you can do to spend more time with your dog. Will you be able to take him with you to your office/workplace? The time we spend apart from our dog is actually just as important as the time we do spend with them. Hearing your voice can go a long way in making your dog comfortable and preventing any behavioural issues.

Dogs love to spend time with us, so treat your dog once in a while and go on adventures with him. This includes but is not limited to hiking, travelling, and visiting new parks, forests, or counties. Even if it just means that you take him with you to visit your relatives or friends, he will appreciate the moments you spend with him very much. Every positive experience your pup gains with you accumulates to a much stronger connection. New sights, sounds and smells will exhaust your dog (in a positive way). Besides, a change of scenery won’t harm you either, so buckle up.

Surprise your dog and buy them their absolute favourite dog treats or bake some dog cookies of your own (you can check out plenty of recipes on Pinterest). Like playing, food releases endorphins and especially their favourite food will boost their happiness. Try out new things and really get to know your dog’s taste. Treating your dog can also mean giving him a new dog toy to rip apart. Remember that it’s not only about the fun of playing but also the quality time with you.

We always expect our dogs to be looking out for us and protecting us from danger. Although many dogs show their affection by doing that, our role as humans should be the same. If there is a situation that throws your dog off and scares him, you have to take the time out of your day to reassure him that you always got his back. Then he will have the courage to approach new things with more confidence and self-esteem.

If you are at a dog park and playing gets too rough and your dog can’t get away, ask the owner if he could call his dog or try to block him with your body. Stepping in before it escalates is the best way to prevent a dog fight and will show your dog that you are watching and supporting him.

Physical contact is very pleasant for many dogs and it’s a sign of true love. The highest level of shared trust is by sleeping with your dog

While you don’t have to take him in bed with you, you can just cuddle up on the sofa and enjoy some intimacy. Don’t get frustrated if your dog’s not a lapdog but rather enjoy little steps forward when he seeks out your affection. Keep in mind that not every dog is cuddly, so never force your pet into your arms or your lap. Some dogs just love to cuddle up while others are a tad more independent.

Getting to know your dog and learning what he likes and dislikes is very important. Nobody knows your dog as well as you do. Your dog might show certain signs in specific situations where he may be doubtful of what to do. You must be able to read your dog which will put you much more at ease too. Learn how your dog communicates his needs and fulfill them. That doesn’t mean you have to feed him the pizza you are eating just because he demands it. Your puppy might get nervous or restless when he is not feeling well or might bark when he is stressed.

Every dog of every breed is different and you only have to be able to perfectly communicate with your own companion. Also, be clear in how you communicate yourself. Dogs don’t understand sudden anger or frustration so never yell at your dog. You cannot let your communication be influenced by negative emotions. To further boost your communication, make sure sure that he doesn’t struggle with behaviour problems such as separation anxiety, barking, chewing, jumping, etc. Those are all symptoms of a dog that doesn’t have clear guidelines in his life and is not feeling secure.