It’s no secret that dog is man’s best friend. A recent survey of American dog owners by Beneful also revealed that for most dog owners, the bond with their four-legged buddy goes deeper than friendship, with nearly all (96%) dog owners surveyed agreeing that their dog is part of their family. The majority of dog owners surveyed (58%) also agree their dog understands them like no human could.
Ensuring that dogs are happy and healthy members of the family is one of the reasons that passionate dog lover, Captain William Lewis Judy, founded National Dog Week in 1928 to promote responsible pet ownership. Today, more than 85 years later, it continues to be a week worth celebrating with the four-legged friends that love, comfort and entertain us.
According to the 2015 Beneful National Dog Week (Sept 21-17, 2015) survey, the following are the top 10 activities that dog owners believe make their dogs happiest.
#1 – Eating dog treats (96%)
We all know dogs love to eat! So treat your dog to special cookie this week just for being your best friend.
#2 – Mealtime (90%)
Along with treats – food is good. Maybe tonight give your friend a homemade meal – even something simple like chicken and rice is a treat for most dogs! (Ask your vet before changing your dog’s diet!)
#3 – Chewing a dog bone (87%)
Chewing a safe bone or toy is the best! It not only makes your pup happy, but keeps your shoes intact. Give your dog something special to chew this week.
#4 – Going on walks (86%)
Walks are good for you and your dog! It not only makes your dog happy, but it can be a stress-reliever for you and it’s also healthy. Throw in an extra walk this week – you’ll both be glad you did.
#5 – Snuggling (84%)
After a long walk and an extra treat, it’s time to snuggle! If your dog is a snuggle hound, treat him to an additional session this week – it’s a great time to binge-watch last year’s season of your favorite show to get ready for this season!
#6 – Playing fetch (74%)
Like walking, fetch is a great way to keep your dog healthy while having fun. Throw that ball a few extra times this week.
#7 – Riding in the car (71%)
Some dogs just love to go on a car ride! If you are going somewhere dog friendly this week, take your best bud for a spin in the car. Maybe through the drive-through at the bank or coffee spot – many of them have treats for your dog too!
#8 – Going to the dog park (56%)
If your pup is the social sort, treat him to an extra day or an extra hour at the dog park just to let him know you care about his happiness. Plus, he it will wear him out more, which is a good thing.
#9 – Running/jogging with someone (55%)
For those of you with speed hounds at home, maybe go that extra half mile this week, or on an extra run, just for the fun of it. Your dog will thank you.
#10 – Being brushed/groomed (48%)
Hard to believe, but there are dogs out there that like to be brushed and/or groomed. If you have a pretty princess at home that likes to be pampered, treat her to an extra session of grooming this week. Or maybe even a spa day!
Toledo, United States.
