Humans naturally express their love through hugging, kissing or cuddling. Fortunately, some dogs love to be loved, touched and cuddled! Some do not. An excellent way to show your dog how much you appreciate them is to pay for the things she prefers, then grant the form of contact, eyes, touch, and engagement that she is comfortable with desirable and avoid the imposition of your favorite or indiscreet method of playing or petting on a dog that she’s not interested or uninterested. Understanding your dog’s preferences can bring you closer and make your bond stronger.
Do a “consent test”: Sit next to your pet to determine the kind of attention and touch she truly appreciates. As soon as your dog is close to you, begin contact. The desirable first touch is a gentle scratch to the chest (not over your dog’s head; there aren’t many breeds that do it!). Rub or rub her for three to five minutes, then remove your hands. If your dog moves closer or nuzzles your hand and is relaxed in her smile, she encourages more physical contact.
If you’re blessed with the luxury of a cuddle buddy, absolutely enjoy. If your pet prefers a few scratches beneath the chin or a relaxing massage, go for it. If your dog is fond of eye contact directly with you, then spend many minutes gazing affectionately at her eyes.
The dog’s mind can be changed So even if you allowed extra petting initially, keep an eye out for indications that she’s been through suitable and would like the petting to end. If she decides to leave then allow her to go! Take a look at what you did and where you handled her at the time she chose to go away She might not enjoy the way you interact with her! (For additional information on consent testing, check out “Does your dog opt-in? How to Communicate With Your Dog.”) Respecting your dog’s boundaries is a crucial part of expressing love.
Loving Alternatives to Touch
Take note that certain canines prefer not even to be touched! If your dog falls into one of them, you should show love for her by engaging in activities she loves. The more activities she can enjoy with you, the more she’ll feel the joy she gets from these pursuits.
If you are a fan of walking, coactivitiesarly scheduled hikes through the woods, and “sniffer” adventures, snifferlenty of time to take in all the scents they want. If she enjoys lively games of fetch, tug, or even find-the-hidden-treat, engage in the games at least once every day, and if possible longer, even if it’s just for a couple of minutes.
Remember to train! Fun, relaxed, no-force training will help your dog feel more at ease, respected, and appreciated by your side! This is communication in the end. Additionally, dogs that are well-trained has many benefits such as visits to the houses of relatives and friends social outings with canines, humans and animals, even hiking off leash and playing with canines. Non-forceful training methods can empower you as a dog owner and strengthen your bond with your pet.
Remember that regardless of how well-intentioned traditional training methods that rely on coercion or the flawed “dominance” concept have been proven scientifically to harm the dog’s health, well-being, and level of living. An enthusiastic voice, gentle praise, precise cues (rather than “commands”), and soft handling can show that you are a dog owner. Non-force tools and techniques that benefit create relationships based upon confidence, respect, and cooperation are an original expression of your love for your dog.