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1. Go for a hike together.
Give your dog plenty of time to stop and sniff. You can use that time to enjoy the sounds and sights surrounding you. Or, you can think about how you are going to tackle that big homework project that is due tomorrow.
2. Brush out those tangles.
Dogs need their hair combed and brushed, too, and if you're very gentle, your dog will not mind and might even love being groomed. Even short-haired dogs shed their fur and need the loose stuff brushed out.
3. Take your dog to visit someone who doesn’t get many visitors
maybe someone at a senior citizen’s home or a disabled neighbor. They will enjoy the company and your dog will LOVE the extra attention.
4. Hang out together
4. Hang out together
when you read, watch TV or a video, or listen to your favorite CD or radio station, your dog wants to be with you -- her favorite person! When was the last time your dog was brushed -- watching TV and brushing can be done all at once!
5. Teach your dog the rules.
Your dog doesn't know that jumping on people, stealing dinner off the table and pulling on the leash are "bad." Just like you had to learn the rules at school and in sports, your dog needs to be taught what is OK in the world of humans. Be sure to have lots of doggie treats on hand to use as rewards.
6. Let your dog mingle.
Bring him out into the world so he will be comfortable in many situations -- the park, the middle of town, the pet supply store, and the bus stop. Once your dog walks on a leash without pulling you away, you can begin to take him where all the action is. He'll be happier and won't get bored looking at just your house and yard! Try a harness or a head halter instead of a collar if your dog pulls and chokes himself as you walk. Go to your local pet supply store or veterinarian and ask about the Gentle Leader or Halti head halters!
7. Get some exercise.
Toss a frisbee or tennis ball. Who knows, you and your dog might end up the grand champions of the national frisbee competition.
8. Teach your dog some neat tricks!
People will love your dog even more if he can entertain them with silly tricks. Teach her how to give a high five, roll over, or crawl across the floor!
9. Start a neighborhood dog park or play group if you don’t already have one.
5. Teach your dog the rules.
Your dog doesn't know that jumping on people, stealing dinner off the table and pulling on the leash are "bad." Just like you had to learn the rules at school and in sports, your dog needs to be taught what is OK in the world of humans. Be sure to have lots of doggie treats on hand to use as rewards.
6. Let your dog mingle.
Bring him out into the world so he will be comfortable in many situations -- the park, the middle of town, the pet supply store, and the bus stop. Once your dog walks on a leash without pulling you away, you can begin to take him where all the action is. He'll be happier and won't get bored looking at just your house and yard! Try a harness or a head halter instead of a collar if your dog pulls and chokes himself as you walk. Go to your local pet supply store or veterinarian and ask about the Gentle Leader or Halti head halters!
7. Get some exercise.
Toss a frisbee or tennis ball. Who knows, you and your dog might end up the grand champions of the national frisbee competition.
8. Teach your dog some neat tricks!
People will love your dog even more if he can entertain them with silly tricks. Teach her how to give a high five, roll over, or crawl across the floor!
9. Start a neighborhood dog park or play group if you don’t already have one.
Invite friends and their dogs to meet at a park or field at a specific time. Once you’ve been spotted there a couple of times other people and dogs will join the group. Be sure to pick up after the dogs. Nobody wants to step in poop!
10. Be creative.
10. Be creative.
Draw a picture of your dog. Write a poem, story or song. Design a web page featuring you and your dog. Photograph your dog. Let your dog be your inspiration!
