How to Pamper Your Dog
Posted February 13 by FidoWhat does it mean to Pamper Your Dog? What will make them the happiest? First and most importantly - LOVE. Nothing is harder on a dog than to be ignored. It's like punishing them.
Do you have multiple dogs? I do. I make sure I commit some time each day to provide individualized attention to each of them in a manner they appreciate the most. For Toby, a hundred pound Old English Sheepdog, just sitting on the floor and letting him lay across me while I pet him makes him incredibly happy. Annie, a Bichon, loves to play fetch. For Chloe, another Bichon, belly rubs hit the spot. Vincent, yet another Bichon is happiest just sitting with me and talking about the day.
Is that all it takes to pamper your dog? No of course not! But I would argue without loving your dog, nothing else will matter.
Dog Park Visits - If your dog is social and likes to play with other dogs then find a local dog park and take him/her regularly! A dog park is a place where people and their dogs can play together. These facilities offer dogs off-leash play areas while their people enjoy the park-like setting. It's also a great place to meet and socialize with other dog lovers and their pets.
Healthy Treats - Mine get a treat twice a day. When they come in from doing their business first thing in the morning and when I come home from work. They run for the treat jar and sit (actually wiggle vs sitting still) waiting for me to hand them a treat. As long as I'm consistent with my timing, they know this is when the treats get doled out and don't beg for them other times. Be careful not to go overboard but treats are a great way to pamper your dog.
Talking - The sound of your voice is comforting to you pups. My dogs will stop what they are doing and look at me when I talk to them. Then the wagging and wiggling starts. They know by the tone of my voice whether things are good or bad; when they are good my dogs love the conversations! I have a friend who lives along with her dog. I've visited before and discovered she has almost a constant ongoing conversation with him.
A Comfy Bed - Every dog needs a bed to call their own. For the dog that likes to nest, find a snuggle style. For the older pets with achy joints, be sure to get one with sufficient padding. There are so many colors and styles avaialble to keep your dog comfy while accenting the decor of your home.
Car Rides - Does your pup love a ride in the car? I have one who is obsessed with rides. When running to the bank, or through a drive through restaurant, pharmacy etc. take your pup along. Often times you'll find treats being handed out to your dog during your stop. Be careful with your dog in the car though. Use a doggy seat belt and be sure to never leave your dog in a car. Even a 75 degree car in the sun can heat up to over 100 degrees in under an hour. Be safe!
Spa Days - Everybody loves massage and our pets are no exception. Marry quality shampoos and conditioners with a massage and your pet will think they've died and gone to heaven!
Lots of Walks - Dogs with excess aren't happy and are often destructive which doesn't make for anyone in the house being happy. Pets need fresh air and exercise for their health. A walk is great time for just the two of you to spend time together while feeling the connection through the leash. Always consider the weather when you are exercising your pets. In the summer, don't take them out in the heat of the day. In the winter be sure their paws are protected from the snow and ice and they have a coat to stay warm.
Toys, Toys, Toys - What is the one thing every pampered dog has? Lots and lots of toys and a person to play with them.
What do you do to pamper your dog? Share in the comments below or send us an email and let us know!
