It is important to make sure you have a good relationship with your dog, not only for your benefit but for theirs too. Having a strong relationship with your pet will help you appreciate each others companionship and can help you cope during difficult times as they offer friendship without judgement. Here are 5 ways you can help build the best relationship with your dog:
Train your dog
Engaging your dog in training will create a bond with love, praise and playtime. When you bond with your dog they will crave your attention, which makes it easier to train him by giving or taking away attention. A trained dog also builds your trust with him more giving him more freedom. It will make so you can take him everywhere with you, even around people, thus creating a stronger bond.
Don’t just spend “time” with your dog, spend “quality time”
If training is the only time you spend with your dog, you’re forgetting the best part of having a dog. Play time! Find activities that your dogs likes and do it with him. Even if it is just getting down on the ground to play fetch or tug-of-war. Playing with him will create an even stronger and loving bond and a nice balance also helps them stay more focused during training sessions.
Don’t let your dog own you
Many dogs have an alpha tendency and when your new dog moves in with you, he might try to test who is king of the castle. It is important to let your dog know you are the boss early on in your relationship without using physical force. Dogs need structure and consistent discipline to feel secure and comfortable in your home.
Without discipline, his behavior can become unruly and unpredictable. Some ways to show him that you are the boss is to make him earn treats instead of spoiling it with them, don’t let him enter a room before you do, set your pace when you go on walks and don’t let him pull you wherever he wants to go.
Feed Your Dog Healthy Food
Most dogs love food and like to eat as much and as often as they can. Feeding your dog healthy and delicious food shows that you love him. Also, hand feeding your dog can create a stronger bond because it builds trust and provides socialization. This is a great way to get your dog to pay attention to you, too.
Pet Your Dog on Purpose
Make sure your dog knows that you really care about him by petting him while looking into his eyes and telling him he’s a good boy. Don’t just pet him absentmindedly while you are doing other things like talking to someone or watching tv.
About the Author
Marlene Kingston
Marlene is the owner/breeder at My Doodle Maltpoos. Her blog is filled with information on the Maltipoo Breed and how to make the most of your time with your maltipoo. If you’re interested in adopting a Maltipoo, you can visit her available maltipoo puppies page.
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