Lighten up and have some fun together

I often browse the Internet looking for “what’s new” in the dog world. Most websites and articles are still talking about the importance of being a pack leader with dominance and control.

I am all for leadership but I truly believe that we need to lighten up a bit in our relationship with our dogs. Things are getting so serious and so controlling. We need to remember that dogs are mammals. They have emotions and feelings. Not enough play can have a boomerang effect.

A little while back I got the chance to be part of a workshop with Monique Anstee in Victoria BC. What I took home was the importance of lightening up with our canine friend. She was pointing out that in our quest to the perfect well behave dog we often forget why we got a one in the first place. Unless we have a service or working dog, we are looking  for a fun loving companion.

With so many does, don’t and must we really forget that dogs are like little kids and need to play and have fun as well. I am not talking about just playing ball or Frisbee. That is important too. I am talking about having good silly fun together. This is also a way to connect and create a bond together.

When is the last time you saw your dog smile? You can tell when they smile, their face lighten up and the energy in their body change.

Our dogs are very close to us. They follow our tendency to be overweight, stressed and … take life to seriously.

So ease up a bit. Relax, take a deep breath and be silly with your dog. Race him up in the staircase, play hide and seek on your walk. Get down on all fours and engage in a play. All you need is your imagination. Your dog will love you more for it.

It does not have to be elaborate and complicated. A few minutes is enough. Be spontaneous and have some fun together. You will be amaze how the dynamic of your relationship will change for the better. How your dog will listen to you better, be more relaxed and receptive to your training.

When is the last time you saw your dog smile or laugh? (yes they do)