How to build a stronger bond with your dog

Like almost any relationship, forging a strong bond between you and your dog is absolutely fundamental.  Having a strong connection will help you to trust your dog and your dog to trust you. It will also help you to be able to understand each other’s communications and intentions, paving the way to a happy dog / owner relationship. Here are some key ways that you can strengthen your bond with your new best friend.

Quality time
Your relationship with your dog is like a human relationship. If you only interact on a very surface level where you only look after your dogs very basic needs and neglect to really pay them attention then your relationship will suffer. You should allocate some time every day where you and your dog play together, or interact in some way that is meaningful, while at the same time trying not to be distracted by the TV or your mobile phone.

Dog training
While the stereotype of a dog is of an animal that is focused entirely on their primal instincts and quite simple, they are in fact quite complicated.  Every dog is unique and may have its own worries, stresses and frustrations, which if understood can make life easier for the both of you. This is why it is important to get your dog trained. Dog training classes not only teach your dog to understand and listen to you, but also vice versa, massively improving your relationship and helping to alleviate problems on either side.

Treat your dog with respect
Treating your dog with respect means not only treating them how you would like to be treated but also being calm and consistent. If you encourage your dog to jump on the sofa with you one day, and then scold them the next day for the same behaviour then you will confuse your dog. Teach them good behaviours and be consistent in your reactions.  Treating your dog in a fair and consistent manner, along with principles that you are taught at dog training classes will help you to develop a strong bond with your dog built around mutual respect, which makes you both feel safe and happy.

For more information about dog training, click to read our article Dog Training: What you need to know, visit our website https://www.witsend4pets.co.uk/ or call us on 0116 244 2455.