Whether you are concerned about developing a strong bond with your new puppy or if you want to repair your relationship with an old furry friend, it is important that you get started straight away. Starting a relationship from scratch with a puppy is generally an easier task than mending or tweeking an existing relationship with your dog, but there are still a few basic ideas that you should keep in mind. Read on to learn a few tips you can use to establish and maintain a strong bond with your pooch.
The first thing you need to learn, if you don’t know already, is that your dog will view your family as his pack. Even in the wild, packs of dogs have a leader, known as the alpha. In your pack, you should be the leader; this will make your dog not only obedient to you, but loyal and respectful. It’s crucial that you include your dog in family activities, but never give him reason to believe he should be the alpha (ie: eating from your plate, taking the lead on walks or entering doorways before you, playing tug-of-war or another game where he can physically overpower you, etc.). You must assume the air of a leader and let your dog understand that while he is a valued and loved member of your family, his place is last in the pecking order (human family members always come first). Acting as the leader will give your dog a stability he will appreciate and respect, and respect is everything when it comes to having a good relationship with your pet.
As I mentioned before, it’s important that you include your dog in everyday activities. Trust is probably the single most important factor in having a good relationship with your dog, so try to make sure that your actions don’t imply any untrustworthiness on your part. Routines are a good way of showing your dog that you’re dependable, as long as you stick to them. Little things like taking your dog out to potty and feeding him around the same time everyday are ways that will help your dog to naturally trust in you. Imagine if you relied upon someone for your food/water and bathroom privileges; if you aren’t given these necessities on a regular and dependable basis, you would never grow to trust your supporter.
Activities are a great way to let your dog feel he is involved in the family. Dogs are naturally playful and sociable, so including them in everyday activities such as chores or playing in the back yard are important. You could also take the time to brush your dog or walk with him every day. Training is an excellent way to bond with your dog as praise and (gentle) correction lets him feel involved. I recommend that you get a set of dog steps and train your dog to use them. Whether he’s a puppy or not, it’s better for his joints than jumping to and from furniture and that added training time will only serve to rekindle your dog’s trust and obedience in you.
For more great tips about raising pets, or to purchase a set of pet stairs, visit Help Your Pets here.
Tags: bonding with your dog, new dog, new puppy, pet stairs, pet steps
