Must Knows to Select the Best Dog for You – #4 of 5, Benefits of Owning a Dog

If you are reading this blog you most likely agree with the phrase, ‘man’s best friend’, as stated by King Frederick of Prussia (1789) in reference to his beloved Italian Greyhound. Dogs weren’t always thought of in this way but we know in our society they have grown to become a valuable part of many people’s lives. Why is that? Simply stated, it is because they have a heart that is true and not fickle. If treated well they will provide you with years of companionship, enjoyment, social interaction and even safety. In addition, they are a wonderful activity partner, encouraging you to be outside in nature, which during this most unprecedented of times is a good place to spend time. I have been encouraged to see many people open their homes and hearts to adding a dog to their family and hope they are tapping into these wonderful benefits. I venture to say that our lives as we knew them prior to March 2020 have changed and may never return to what they were. Uncertainty can cause stress and the antidote to that is to relieve it somehow. Owning a dog offers options as simple as holding or sitting next to your dog and petting it, walking together or playing ball. The options are only limited by your imagination!

COMPANIONSHIP
That wonderful feeling of fellowship or friendship with another. It can include conversation or not. Maybe you have seen this famous conversation of a dog with his owner about bacon. Isn’t that funny? I laugh every time I watch it. Bacon aside, everyone needs a good friend and your dog could be your best choice yet because if treated kindly he/she will give you unconditional love (and licks) in return. Who couldn’t use more of that?

ACTIVITY PARTNER
Has anyone (like a spouse or the doctor) told you to get more steps in your day? Most dogs need a walk (or two) every day, rain or shine. Of course, you can walk or jog and that would be fine but you can also bike ride, hike or kayak together. Another idea for you to consider would be to join a club that includes your dog. My husband and I participate in the sport of field trialing which includes riding a horse while following the dogs as they hunt for birds. We love it! The good news is that not all breeds of dogs require the same amount of activity. A few examples of dogs who are more sedentary are the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Pug and Shih Tzu. It’s a great idea to study the various breeds when selecting your dog so your activity level is well matched with your dog. If by chance it is not, I have another good suggestion….doggie day care, like Paws In Time.

ENJOYMENT
Another wonderful benefit of having a dog in your life is enjoyment. Don’t you just love watching a child interact with a puppy like this short video?Dogs can bring enjoyment to people of all ages, even in a nursing home. Just think, you could train and take your dog to spread the love they have to many people. They never tire of licking and wagging their tails while being loved on.

LEARN
I had to add this to the list because dogs and their owners learn so much from each other. Interacting with a dog is different than interacting with a human. Dogs can teach their humans playfulness, patience, kindness and gentleness. The owner also needs to learn to be the alpha as well as learn dog language in order to communicate well. Dogs understand body language (ear and eye position, body position and facial expressions) more readily than vocalized language. Dogs love to learn and together you can be creative by learning many tricks and helpful tasks.

SOCIAL

Sometimes people live by themselves and don’t spend much time with friends and family. This can cause loneliness, anxiety and even depression. By taking your dog for a walk you have the opportunity to interact with others or you can step it up and take your dog to a dog park and interact with many other dog enthusiasts. Many businesses are also pet-friendly, from a hardware store to an auto repair shop. This topic has even made the news! Once again the opportunities to interact with others through your dog are many, just look around or ask and you will find them.

SAFETY
The presence of a dog adds a degree of safety in your life. Even if they aren’t trained to do so, a barking dog inside your house will cause a possible intruder to think twice about entering your home. When you are out on a walk or bike ride, having a dog next to you adds to your safety bubble. When children playing outside and the dog is with them, they will be much less likely to be approached by a stranger. If you have an accident and have your dog with you, they may bark and bring attention to your situation which could bring assistance more quickly.

I can honestly say that owning a dog has such potential for so many benefits in your life and those will far out weigh the added responsibility and costs. I wish you many years of enjoyment and companionship with your dog and hope that you make many special memories together.

Cheers,

Julie