Happy Dogs!

•  Today I want to talk to you about JOY!

Yes, that 's right.

How can we make the lives of our animal companions more joyful and focus our awareness on their experience?
This piece is with regards to our beloved dogs - cats will get their own edition in one of the upcoming notes - I promise.

• Provide mentally stimulating toys, good chews, games and other activities to prevent boredom.

• Canine enrichment also includes play, play, play. This can be with above mentioned toys or with chase games, peek a boo, hide and seek (which can also be used to refresh re- call training), nose work and so on.

• Allow your dogs to make choices, when you are out and about for your daily walk, maybe by letting them choose the route - as long as it is safe- and run with them if they want to run.

• Let your dogs choose what is worthy of extensive sniffing and let them read their "pee mail" as long as they want.

• Touch them just the right way and watch for invitations to rub their favorite spots, but also note when they have enough.

• Most importantly, accept them for who they are! Just like us, our dogs are over the moon when we let go of attempts to change them and love them the way they are.

• Last but not least continue with your dog training to create long lasting benefits. A well socialized canine is less likely to be confused because they know what you want and more adaptable in new situations.

• Don't forget to smile. Be grateful.

​​             And now go fetch! 

---