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10 Excellent Ways To Bond With Your Dog

| October 21, 2015

Every relationship needs work, even the one with your best friend. Your dog will appreciate any extra time you spend with him and it will make your bond even stronger. Not sure what to do? How about one of these fun activities, which are sure to bring you closer together.

#1 – Therapy Work

Helping others is an amazing way to strengthen your bond with your dog. You will feel good too, knowing you are bringing a bit of joy into the lives of others. To get started, check out PetPartners.org.

Image source: @DebMomof3 via Flickr
Image source: @DebMomof3 via Flickr

#2 –  Learn A Sport

Take your training to the next level and learn to compete in rally, canine freestyle, agility, obedience, nose works – whichever sport “speaks” to you and your pup! You will learn to communicate with your dog in a whole new way that will definitely strengthen your bond and give you something fun to do together.

Image source: @recastle via Flickr
Image source: @recastle via Flickr

#3 – Camping Trip

Take your four-legged friend and go on a camping trip. Nothing gets you closer to your dog than being in nature, exploring new areas and sleeping in a tent together. Plus, it’s a fun break from the urban jungle.

Image source: @ActiveStever via Flickr
Image source: @ActiveStever via Flickr

#4 – Try Something New

Whether it’s surfing, kayaking, skateboarding, or something completely different, learning new skills with your dog can be a blast! A lot of companies that do these types of activities are dog friendly now, so you can bring along your best friend to bond as you both try something new!

Image source: @JillHarness via Flickr
Image source: @JillHarness via Flickr

#5 – Professional Photographs

Spend the day out in your favorite location with a professional photographer who can capture that special relationship you have with your dog forever. Not only is it a fun way to bond, it gives you a memory you can look back on forever.

#6 – Learn Canine Massage

Who doesn’t love a good massage? Take a canine massage or TTouch class and your dog will love you for it! It will teach you a lot about canine body language and emotions, which will bring you to closer together. Learn more at TTouch.com.

Image source: @Jespahjoy via Flickr
Image source: @Jespahjoy via Flickr

#7 – Shop Together

Next time you go to the pet store, take the time to bring your furry best friend to pick out a special toy or treat. This simple act can really increase the bond with your dog as you test out toys in the aisles (one of my favorite things to watch my dog do!) and you will learn a bit about your dog’s toy preferences for future purchases!

Image source: @Ginny via Flick
Image source: @Ginny via Flickr

#8 – Dog-Friendly Getaway

Thinking about a vacation? Instead of calling the pet sitter or boarding facility, plan a vacation that includes the dog! From amazing cabins in the Appalachian Mountains, to luxury hotels in Beverly Hills and everything in between, there are dog friendly vacation destinations pretty much anywhere you may want to go.

Image source: @CherieDamron via Flickr
Image source: @CherieDamron via Flickr

#9 – Start a Hiking Group

Start a hiking group that meets once a week or month to go on a new hike! Most states are full of dog friendly hiking spots and going with a group of other dog lovers is a great way to bond with your pup while you both make new friends!

Image source: @PeterMerholz via Flickr
Image source: @PeterMerholz via Flickr

#10 – Quiet Time

One of the simplest ways to bond with your dog? Just spend some quiet time with just the two of you! You will be amazed at what your dog “says” to you during that time, whether it’s snuggling on the couch, sitting in the woods, or enjoying the sunset from your porch. Those moments are priceless opportunities to truly bond with your best friend.

Image source:  @AnneBeaumont via Flickr
Image source:  @AnneBeaumont via Flickr

 

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