6 Great Ways To Bond With Your Dog

Whether you have a new puppy or a long-time companion, your dog is probably your best friend. Like any relationship, it takes work to build a strong bond. Dogs need stimulation and affection, just like people. Various fun activities will help you bond with your dog and create a lasting friendship. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Bonding Outside

1. Going On walks

This one is a no-brainer. When you go on a walk with your dog, you both enjoy the fresh air, exercise, and explore the world together. This is one activity you can do every day, virtually anywhere, whether you live out in the country or the city.

Finding a good place for a walk is easy to do. A quick tour down the street or to the local park will trick. If you’re feeling more adventurous, check out a dog walking trail near you. A simple search online will help you find one quickly. (“Dog walking trails near me” usually brings good results, as seen here.)

2. Teaching Your Dog New Tricks

Whether it’s something simple like sitting or something more advanced like rolling over, teaching your dog new tricks is fun to bond with them. It also teaches them to get something exciting by doing something simple like sitting. It’s also a great way to keep your dog entertained when you have a few minutes to spare. It doesn’t take long to teach your dog something new, and it will be exciting for both of you when you’re finally able to show off your new skill. Hiring an expert from dog training Huntsville company to train your dog is always a great idea!

3. Playing Fetch, Tug-O-War, Or A Game Of Hide-And-Seek

Playing games with your dog is an excellent way to bond. Contests are fun for both of you, and they also teach your dog some essential skills. Games like fetch, tug-of-war, and a game of hide-and-seek help foster your dog’s natural hunter instincts, leads them to impulse control, and they’re also a lot of fun! You can play whatever games your dog enjoys the most, but be sure to try out new things.

Bonding Indoors

1. Cuddling With Your Pup

Some dogs love being close to their owners, whether cuddling on the couch or the floor. Cuddling with your dog benefits you, but it also helps your dog. Cuddling with your dog releases chemicals in their brain that makes them feel loved and cared for, making them feel happy and comfortable. It’s a great way to show your dog that you care, and it also helps build a stronger bond between the two of you.

2. Use Paws-Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is one of the most important things you can do to help build a strong bond with your dog. When you use positive reinforcement, you praise and reward your dog for desirable behavior. This helps strengthen your connection, which is especially important when you first bring your dog home. It also helps build their confidence, which is necessary for a successful companion.

3. Try Fun Indoor Exercises, Like Doggy Yoga

Sometimes we can’t go outside to play, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have fun indoors. Activities like dog yoga are gaining popularity because they’re a great way to strengthen your muscles and joints and your bond.

Dog yoga combines yoga poses and moves with playtime with your dog, which means you get the best of both worlds. Group dog yoga classes are becoming more and more popular, so be sure to check out one near you. If you don’t want to make a trip, you can also try out a doggy yoga video online at home to do some exercises with your pup.