Pet Expert Reveals How To Make Your Dog Feel Loved!

Buy them a new dog toy

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One of the best ways to show your pup some love is to buy them a brand new toy. It gives them an opportunity to be experimental, develop new skills and switches up their routine. Maybe they're used to a tennis ball? Throw them a bone (hopefully a stuffed one!).

Give them a treat

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It's not just a case of giving them something fun to play with; give them something fun to eat! Whether they've been a good dog, they've performed a trick really well, or just because they're especially cute that day, be sure to give them a tasty treat.

And try new treats too

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We can get so bogged down in routine, we forget that we should be changing things up once in a while, especially for our furry friends. If your pup is used to bully sticks, why not try something like frozen sardines? If they love peanut butter, maybe let them have a taste of an apple instead. Or even apple dipped in peanut butter! The opportunities are endless.

Praise your dog for being a good boy (or girl)!

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Regardless of whether it's in the form of treats, toys or tickles, all your dog really wants is to be praised for behaving well. Have you ever heard of Pavlov's dogs? Pavlov believed that dogs (and humans) were better behaved when they were praised than when they were scolded. Bear that in mind and go tell your pup they're a superstar!

Keep them comfy

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If you have hardwood floors, the last thing you would want to do is lie your tummy on them, your knees hitting the solid ground as you did so. So make sure your dog is comfortable! Make sure they have beds everywhere, blankets to spare and that if they need a lie down, there's always your lap.

Nap with them

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This one is as good for you as it is for your dog. We can all feel a little lonely, and that includes your canine pals. It has been scientifically proven to decrease loneliness, improve sleep and provide a level of security to help you both feel safe. Go and have a little nap; it will do you both good.

Go for plenty of walks

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Walks are an excellent way to show your dog that they are loved. By getting them out into the fresh and open air, it gives them an opportunity to, yes, relieve themselves, but also get out of the house, stretch their legs and let them see that the house is not the be all and end all of the world!

Take them for a run

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And if you wanted to go one step further, you could even take them for a run! Of course, make sure that your dog is capable of sticking to your pace and vice versa, but as long as it's deemed safe, you can absolutely make them a part of your running routine.

Let them off the lead

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There is a look in a dog's eyes when they get to roam a field or a park or a river unencumbered. They get a jolt of serotonin and can feel the wind rushing through their fur (or hair). It also opens up the options for play, whether it's hide and seek or chase.

Feed them their favorite food

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Some dogs aren't a great fan of treats, but they are a fan of a hearty and delicious meal. Now, if it's not especially good for their tummies, try and keep this to a minimum. But if you've been to the vet and they've had a tough day, the best thing to do is to give them their favourite meal.

Keep them hydrated

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We often forget that these little furry creatures may sometimes need reminding that they need a drink. Make sure you always have water out for them, regardless of the temperature, and knowing that they are hydrated and looked after will make you feel happy and them feel loved.

Go to the beach

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I love nothing more than seeing my pup gallop across the sand and then stop suddenly when he reaches the water! The joy these dogs feel when they experience a new circumstance with new things to discover, knowing that you're right there with them, is sure to make them feel loved no question.

Give them a massage

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Now, you could get one of the contraptions above, or perhaps you fancy learning the many and distinct ways to give your dog a real technical massage, or maybe you want to take them to an official dog spa. Either way, give them a little pamper day and show them just what it means to relax.

Take them on holiday

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Not all hotels, forms of transport and restaurants take dogs so make sure you do plenty of research. Find the right spot and then take your little pooch on a vacation. Let them come along for the ride. Not only will you feel content knowing they're with you, but they'll feel even more a part of the family.

Make sure they're healthy at the vets

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Dogs may hate it, but it's absolutely necessary in making them feel loved. How could they not feel loved? You're spending hundreds of dollars to ensure they're fleaed, vaccinated and taken care of if they have any kind of pain. They may whine and moan but it's better for them and for you.

Play games with them!

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It sounds like an easy one, but you would be surprised how many owners leave their dogs to get on with their toys by themselves. That's no fun! You want to make sure that you're involving yourself in your dog's playtime. It gives you some time to bond, and you get to see their little tail wag as they take part in the fun.

Groom and pamper them

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It's not just about massages and vet appointments: take the time to actually groom and pamper them. Food can build up in the fur, fleas can get caught in their hair, and their tear ducts can fill up quite quickly. Keep them fresh and clean and treat them like the star they are by pampering them.

Lots of tummy tickles!

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If your dog doesn't want physical touch, then it's best not to mess with them. But if your dog's tail starts wagging the second you even get slightly close to them, it's time for tummy tickles! They will absolutely make it known too by presenting their tummy to you. It's less of a question and more of a command!

Remove any negative attitudes

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Your dog is not misbehaving for fun. They're not doing it to upset you or make your day any worse. they're doing it because they don't know any better, probably due to a lack of training. Try and remember that next time they rip up your favourite cushion. They'll appreciate you more for it and feel completely adored.

Make an agility course in your house

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This suggestion is a fun one especially if you have children. Use whatever you're comfortable with, be it pillows, sofa cushions, chairs, to make an agility course for your dog. They can run round like a hooligan and burn some of their energy, and you get to take as many funny videos as your cell phone can allow!

Go to the doggy park with them

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While our furry friends love time with us humans, they can also very much enjoy time with their fellow pup. First things first though, make sure the other dogs at the park seem like a friendly bunch and check in with their owners before starting. That way you can be sure that both your dogs can have a whale of a time.

Give them 100% of your attention

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It might sound obvious but your dog doesn't have a phone. They don't have a list of chores to be getting on with or a job to go to everyday. Their entire life is you. So when you're taking the time to spend with your dog, give all your attention to them and let them know that they're loved (much more than your phone!).

Snuggle them!

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Tummy tickles and nap time is great, but one of the best ways to express your adoration of your pup is to give them a great big cuddle. Maybe it's whilst you're watching TV together, or just because you're feeling a little blue. However you choose to do it, it's sure to put a smile on both of your faces.

Take your dog swimming

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My dog is not a great fan of the water; he's a little too pampered for that! But maybe your dog loves going down to the river or enjoys a little time in the ocean. Why not take them for a swim and see how they feel? Giving them the chance to try new things and have a paddle in the water will keep them happy for sure.

Try not to leave them alone for too long

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It's a gut-wrenching feeling when you have to leave your dog at home alone. Not because you're nervous they'll rip the house to shreds, but because you don't want them to feel lonely. Try not to leave them alone too often or for too long, otherwise they may suffer from separation anxiety.

If you do leave them, make sure they're entertained

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Unfortunately, I know all too well that sometimes you do have to leave your pup alone for a while. If that's the case and it's unavoidable, make sure that your dog has plenty to keep them entertained and distracted from your departure. At the very least, ensure they're set with water, food and a little toy to pass the time.

Give them time to explore

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You know that feeling when you're hunting in TJ Maxx and your partner keeps telling you to move along? It is so incredibly frustrating. You just want time to look! Well, that's how your dog feels when you keep trying to lead them back home. They want to run, jump and explore, so make sure you give them the time to do so.

Play fetch with them

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It is a classic game to play with your pooch for a reason, a very good reason: they love it! And they will love you even more if you take the time to play fetch with them. It can be with anything, a tennis ball, a frisbee or even just a stick. Whatever it is, have fun!

Listen to them

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Dogs have an uncanny way of letting us know what they need. Maybe they're sat in their basket looking outside at the world. Take them for a walk. Maybe they're staring at their dish. Give them some food! They're not subtle creatures so make sure you're paying attention to their wants and needs, and they'll feel endlessly loved.

Meet up with their doggy friends

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Let the tail wagging begin! It's an absolute joy for you both when you organise a playdate for your pup. For each, make sure it's a dog you know they get along with and let them have at it! It keeps them happy, it keeps you happy, and it only helps to build their trust of you.