Do you know how to enhance your dog’s life and make your furry friend happy? You can listen to some general facts that are important for these animals and adapt them to your dog’s preferences. Experts have provided simple and effective tips to help owners improve their dogs’ lives.
Engage Your Dog’s Sense of Smell
The key rule is to engage the most important senses of the animal. For dogs, that sense is smell. Dogs that are allowed to explore scents tend to be more optimistic than those engaged in reward-based activities. In an experiment, scientists assigned dogs to a two-week group activity, either scent work or jumping, and then had them take a bias test before and after. This test measures how quickly dogs react to an unexpected bowl of food placed between locations where they know food is never found. The idea is that an optimistic dog anticipates a tasty treat and will reach it faster. Therefore, experts recommend allowing your dog to use its nose during off-leash walks. When on a leash, slow down the pace and let your pet sniff around, even if it extends the walk time. You can also scatter treats in a safe area on the grass and let your dog use its nose to find them. Another option is to create a snuffle mat with long, thick fibers to hide treats in. You can even hide goodies for your pet when it’s not looking. All of this will help improve your dog’s sense of smell.
Use a Variety of Treats
As noted by Sciencefocus, experts recommend diversifying the rewards you use during training. Using food as positive reinforcement is the best way to train a dog. However, don’t make the mistake of relying solely on dog food; instead, try different treats and human foods like chicken, roast beef, or cheese. Scientists have shown that dogs reach a bowl containing a piece of sausage faster than one filled with dog food. So, don’t assume they don’t pay attention to the rewards you offer. While some dogs may prefer certain treats, most will appreciate variety over time. If you’re not using reward-based training, it’s time to make a change.
Allow Your Dog to Play with Other Dogs
If your dog enjoys the company of other dogs, find opportunities for them to play together. This is especially important for puppies, as play helps them learn gentle biting and develop other motor skills. Play also serves crucial social functions. If you observe dogs playing, you may notice signs like bouncing during their movements, a playful expression on their faces, and a “play bow” (front legs lowered to the ground while the back end is raised). Older dogs tend to play less, may not engage in full-blown games, and might prefer simple interactions with other dogs over wrestling or chasing. If your pet doesn’t like other dogs at all, spend more time playing with them yourself. This is also a great way to satisfy your dog’s need for play.
Provide a Safe Space for Your Dog
Give your dog a safe space to retreat when it wants to rest. This could be a bed in a quiet area or a dog house with an always-open door. This is especially important in homes with children or if your dog is shy or fearful. Make sure everyone at home knows the rule: the dog can come and go from its space as it pleases, and no one should disturb it. If you need to bring your pet out of its safe space, don’t go to it; call it to you instead.
Invest in a Good Dog Bed
Dogs sleep a lot, so it’s worth investing in a good dog bed. They will undoubtedly enjoy your couch or bed, so don’t pay attention to old myths and decide for yourself if you want your pet to sleep on your furniture. Older dogs sleep more than adults and may suffer from arthritis, so they might need a bed that’s low to the ground for easier access, as well as stairs or a ramp to reach their spot.
Learn About Your Dog’s Preferences
Experts advise doing more activities that you both enjoy with your dog. Does your pup love tug-of-war or chasing games? Perhaps it enjoys playing with a stick, as it engages its predatory instincts? If your dog prefers walks in the woods or visits to a pond where it can splash around, make sure to provide those experiences. Maybe it just wants to accompany you or lie next to you on the couch while you watch TV. Preferences can be individual. Choose what your pet enjoys and ensure it has the opportunity for happiness. Spending time together is one way to strengthen the bond between dog and owner.