Few things in life give us more joy than our pets. On top of the emotional benefits our pets give us, there happen to be health benefits as well. The American Heart Association has stated that having a dog may protect you from heart disease!
Showing extra love to our puppy can go a long way. This will not only boost our strong bond with them, but this will also be great for us in the long run.
Here are 5 acts of kindness you can do for your dog:
#5. Adopt a puppy from a shelter
If your dog is friendly with other dogs, consider fostering a dog that would otherwise end up in a small crate (or worse) at a kill shelter. Unfortunately, shelters and pounds are often packed with unwanted animals, and any extra help they can get is greatly appreciated. Be extra kind to the foster and work on socialization so they can go out to a happy forever home.
#4. Get your dog some toys
There’s an amazing assortment of toys available for your dog. From simple balls to more complex “brain games,” a toy can bring hours of fun to your best friend. Keeping a basket of toys for your dog will occupy his time when you aren’t around and give you a chance to play together when you are. Just be sure that any toys you purchase are safe and durable.
#3. Give your dog lots of compliments
While your dog might not understand every single word you say, scientists believe dogs are capable of understanding some words and the tones of our voices. If you give your dog a compliment on their snuggling abilities or for just being the best dang doggo in the world in a sweet voice, they will get the point.
#2. Feed your dog with your homemade dog snacks
Another thing that dogs love is food. Feeding them the snacks that they always love will bring large smiles and happiness to your dog’s cute little faces.
It will be a lot more meaningful and heartfelt if you actually made the treats yourself. Try it, you will see a significant difference if you give your dog a treat that you made yourself. They will like it and appreciate it more.
#1. Playing Around
Most dogs love to play well past their puppy stage and into adulthood. A dog’s lifelong playfulness (called neoteny) is actually a result of the domestication process. So playing around isn’t just a fun distraction—it’s hardwired in his DNA. Go ahead and play! Get on the ground, run around, play hide-and-seek, or come up with your own special games to satisfy this basic doggy instinct.