Dogs are often described as a man’s best friend due to their intense loyalty and affection shown to their owners. It can be difficult to communicate effectively with dogs and is completely normal for dog owners to worry about their dogs. Have you ever been curious on if your dog knows how much you love them? Or maybe you are worried that you are not showing your dog affection? From physical touch to acts of kindness, there are so many ways to show your dog just how much you love them. In fact, here are 9 ways to show your furry friend just how much you love and adore them.
1. Physical Touch
Did you know that physical touch relaxes dogs? This ranges from belly rubs to ear tickles to a pat on the head to even cuddling. Providing your dog everyday with physical touch is extremely important and strengthens the connection between a dog and their owner. My dog’s personal favourite is belly rubs; therefore, it is so important to make time for this every day so they know they are loved and appreciated.
2. Talking in a silly high pitched dog voice to show your dog affection!
One of the best ways to make sure your furry friend knows their loved is to speak to them in a high-pitched voice. Dogs recognise tone, and the higher the tone the better response a dog will have. Verbal communication is just as important as physical touch, with dogs love positive reinforcement in a high-pitched voice. Alternatively, dogs respond negatively to shouting and deep-toned voices, and this should only be used to make bad behaviour known.
3. Eye Contact
Eye contact is not suitable for every dog. Some dogs love intense eye contact whilst others hate it! However, if your dog does enjoy it, then eye-contact can help build trust and affection, which will strengthen your bond with your dog.
4. Lots of play time!
It is really important that your dog has lots of play time to enhance their physical and mental health. The best way to do this is to buy your dog some toys. You don’t even need to be around for play time. Whilst you are out of the house make sure your dog has a range of toys to pick and play from. Boredom in dogs is real and can lead to negative behaviours.
Check out our blog post on stimulating dog toys for more information and recommendations on the best interactive toys to prevent dog boredom. Additionally, spending time with your dog doing their favourite activities such as playing fetch or hide and seek shows them that you enjoy being with them.
5. The most common way to show your dog affection is taking them on a walk
A dog’s favourite time of the day is when they get to go for a walk. Therefore, it is so important to prioritise a walk every day. If you don’t have time for a really long walk, we suggest getting toys such as a ball launcher or frisbee to ensure your dog is all tired out by the end of the day! During the week it can be difficult to go on new and interesting walks, but on a weekend taking your dog to a new park or forest is an exciting treat for them!
6. Reading your dog a book
This may sound silly but numerous of studies have shown that reading to a dog reduces stress and anxiety levels! It’s also a great way to spend quality time together, doing an activity that both you and your dog enjoy.
7. Feed your dog treats!
Rewarding dogs for positive behaviour is so important! Not only does it teach them good habits, but also shows your love and appreciation for them. Did you know that dogs can eat some types of human food? Our blog post healthy dog treats found in your kitchen has all the information you need to start treating your dog! If your dog is like mine and is always on the lookout for food, you know that they always love getting a treat. Trying out new treats can also give you a feel for which is their favourite and what treats to probably not purchase again. Just like humans, dogs have preferences too; learning these will show your dog just how much they are loved!
8. Creating boundaries and a safe space for your dog
Whilst dogs love being spoiled with belly rubs, walks, and treats it is so important to give them personal space and to create a dedicated area for them. This is often their bed area. Dogs are extremely social animals but like humans, they often do need a break and time alone. A healthy boundary to set is sometimes to let them approach you. This shows that they are ready for affection and wanting to spend some quality time together.
9. Providing a healthy and well-balanced diet
Last but not least is ensuring your dog is eating a healthy and balanced diet. Like humans, dogs feel better when they are eating nutritious foods, and feel lethargic when eating unhealthily. If you are struggling to manage your dog’s nutrition, then vitamins can be a helpful additive to their diet. It can be difficult to know where to start with vitamins, check out our blog Vitamins, does your dog really need them for more further guidance.
Telling your dog, you love them is so important and is a lot simpler than you may have initially thought. Prioritising physical touch, verbal communication and doing activities that both you and your dog enjoy is the key to showing your dog just how much you love them! Spoiling your dog with the occasional treat and new toy is always a bonus to them too.
Discover our other blog posts!
If you want to find out more about all things dogs, check out our other blog posts.
