One of the first things that comes to mind when we talk about dogs is the relationship they have with their owners. Knowing how to form a bond with your dog can make a huge difference when it comes to your well-being, your dog’s behavior, and the way both can help each other.
It is a well-known fact that dogs are extremely dependent on their owners, they crave for human attention, and this could cause problems if the bond between human and dog is not strong enough.
A good relationship between dog and owner is like the relationship parents and children have. Children bring so much joy to a family, they are playful, they are cute, they make people smile, just like a dog. But, like children, dogs are also learning a lot from their owners, they need them to be there every step of the way, they can be chaotic and stressful, but this changes depending on the way your dog is raised. And like in any other family, children learn from their parents, and vice versa. Once you get a dog you need them as much as they need you. It is a symbiosis.
A dog teaches you about caring for someone else, about how to be responsible, about the importance of a routine. Dogs can change the way you live if you let them into your life. Do not go buy a dog out of spite, they are not a toy so, if you feel like you are not ready for one, do not get one.
Now that you are ready to start a relationship with your dog, here are 5 simple steps that will teach you how to form a bond with your dog:
1. BUILD TRUST AND RESPECT:
This is very important for both of you, as your job as an owner is not just about training your dog to make him or her do whatever you want. Interact with your dog, treat him as a friend, not as an animal. Talk about personal things with them (I know, it sounds crazy), but dogs are great at reading emotions, and if you are brave enough to sustain a full conversation with your pet they are going to get to know you so much better, and in times of need they will be there for you.
2. BE ATTENTIVE:
Whenever your dog does something, make sure you pay attention. You can learn so much about your dog’s behavior towards something. If you give the pup something to eat and the dog dislikes it, make sure you remember. Also, learn the most common things that dogs hate (loud noises, clothes that affect their mobility, among others things). Getting to know your dog is something that will improve your relationship. It will be easier for you if you are working remotely, for example in a paper writing service. It is significant to spend a lot of time with your dog.
3. BE STRICT, BUT DO NOT EXAGGERATE:
Do you remember as a kid when you wanted to stay up late watching TV but your parents did not let you? You might have been angry, or sad, but they know better, so you had to be obedient whether you liked it or not. This is how you should treat your dog. Of course, you have to be loving, but when your dog does something that you do not like, let him or her know, but do not go mad over it. Keep your temper. You are teaching your dog a lesson because you care about the future you are going to share. Once the lesson has been tough, remember to treat them as a reward.
4. BE PHYSICAL:
Dogs love to exercise, so use that as an excuse to drop that cheeseburger and go running. Doing physical activities is entertaining and healthful for both of you, so make sure you go out with your dog, meet new people, and have a good time.
However, being physical is not simply about going out and throwing a frisbee at your dog, it means that you should pet your pup, touch them, have some physical contact. By doing this your levels of stress will drop, your heart rate will be steady, and your dog will be happy to know that you are caring.
5. BE PRESENT:
I know that by doing the other steps you and your dog will spend a lot of time together. Physically being somewhere, and actually BEING there mentally and emotionally are two different things. So BE there for your dog, have some alone time, and do activities together, your relationship will certainly grow.
There you have it! 5 tips on how to form a bond with your dog, improving your relationship, and each other’s lives.
