Posted by Dogs are one of the two most ubiquitous and most popular domestic animals in the world other than cats. For more than 12,000 years it has lived with humans as a hunting companion, protector, object of adoration and friend.
The dog evolved from the grey wolf into more than 400 distinct breeds. Human beings have played a major role in the creation of dogs in order to fulfil distinct societal needs. Through genetic engineering, dogs were bred to accentuate instincts that were evident from their earliest encounters with humans. Although details on the evolution of dogs are uncertain, the first dogs were hunters with impeccable senses of sight and smell. Humans developed these instincts and created new breeds as need or as desire arose.
Dogs are regarded differently in different parts of the world. They are often characterised as loyal, protective, and very affectionate. Therefore, dogs have earned an important position in Western society. In the US and Europe, the care for dogs has become a multibillion-dollar business. Western civilisation has given the relationship between human and dog great importance. However, in some parts of the world, dogs are used as guards or beasts of burden or even for food, whereas in the United States and Europe dogs are protected and admired. In ancient Egypt during the days of the pharaohs, dogs were considered to be sacred.
Here are 5 ways to make your dogs happy:
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Provide appropriate play time & exercise
Exercise and plat time aren’t just good for your dog’s health but it also helps them with their mental health. Dogs need daily exercises such as swimming, playing fetch or going for walks so that they can burn off some excess energy.
Toys and games that are mentally stimulating such as a toy feeder or puzzles are great ways to exercise your dog’s mind.
If they weren’t given playtime or adequate exercise, dogs would live a pretty boring life. A bored dog will have to find their own way to have fun such as by destroying furniture or causing chaos.
2. Continuously train your dog
Training your dog doesn’t stop after it has learned basic commands such as sit, stay and bark. Continuously training your dog even after that gives you a fun way to challenge and entertain your dog’s mind.
Our dogs anticipate learning new behaviours especially when we use positive reinforcements in order to train them.
Training will also help them better understand how they must behave in the house, reducing any confusion and frustration while also making them more confident. A good training session will also give you some quality time with the pet and parent.
Related link: International Cat Day: 5 Ways to Make Your Cats Happy
3. Give your dog some choices throughout the day
Dogs require the same freedom as humans. As the owner, you must be the one deciding their meals, their nap times and where they go potty. Therefore, giving your dog a little bit of autonomy is an easy way to bring them joy.
Small decisions are able to make your dog enjoy it more such as picking out which toy they want or let them decide the route of their walks.
Allowing them to be off-leash is very exciting for dogs who aren’t used to it but this should only be done when it is safe to do so.
4. Provide plenty of chew toys
Dogs love to chew and they would often destroy their toys. This is their way to have a good time while also expressing their natural instincts.
You must look for durable toys that won’t need to be thrown out after a few uses. Also, make sure to have a supply of different types of chew toys so your pet has options.
Some toys can hold a treat inside and this can be a good way for them to learn. Edible toys such as dental chews are fun for your dog while also being great for their oral health.
5. Consider learning doggie massage techniques
There’s no secret that most dogs love to cuddle and be petted. Therefore, do try to learn your pup’s favourite spots to be pet and scratched. You can use petting as a way to reward them for good behaviour.
There are certain massage techniques that you can learn and your dog will love. Massages will help your dog relax and ease their tired muscles as well as anxiety.