Most of us have had dogs or some sort of pet growing up. I’ve had several (often at once) and feel that no home is complete without a dog in it. Whenever I see a dog, I ask the owner if I may pet it (or stare at their pet until they ask me if I want to pet it), and then proceed to gush about how adorable he or she is. There is a reason why a dog is man’s (or woman’s) best friend. They exhibit so many traits that are often lost in our busy everyday lives. Think about how much simpler life would be if we took a few lessons from our furry friends. Of course not a whole lot would get done if we stopped to chase something that distracted us every 15 minutes, but we can learn some valuable lessons from dogs. With that being said, here are 10 things dogs can teach us about life, love, and happiness.
Be loyal to the end.
To a dog, their family or owner is everything to them. They won’t forget them even if they may accept others who are kind or offer them food. The passing of an owner can cause unbearable grief in a dog. Even though a dog’s life span may only be a fraction of yours, it is important to remember that you are their whole life and that they see you as their alpha. A life without you for them is unimaginable. Having a dog is a commitment and you shouldn’t have one if you aren’t prepared to be loyal to it as well. Caring for it both when it is young and old is your responsibility. Your dog completely trusts and depends on you for its wellbeing.
Be empathetic even when you don’t understand.
When you don’t feel well, your dog will lay with you. Whether it is in sadness, joy, or sickness, a dog will be there for you through thick and thin. Even though they may not be able to pinpoint the source of your sadness, they are there to comfort you and provide a listening ear that won’t say, “I told you so.”
Live for today and rest for tomorrow.
Do what makes you happy whether it be chasing that squirrel seven times around the yard, terrorizing the neighbor’s cat, or eating ice cream for breakfast (as long as you share with). After all that is done make sure you take time to rest, because anytime and anywhere can be naptime in a dog’s eyes.
Share everything ALWAYS.
Your dog doesn’t mind if you eat a family sized bag of cheese balls while binge watching Netflix as long as you share. Everything should be shared, your dinner, your snacks, your couch, even your bed. Because who wants to eat or sit alone? Additionally, if your dog grows too big for you both to fit on the couch or chair, invest in a bigger or second one. If you wouldn’t make your child sit on the floor, you shouldn’t make your dog do so either.
You are capable of more than you think.
Growing up, I had a dachshund and a Chihuahua. Though they fell down steps all the time and couldn’t chew their way out of a paper bag, they always felt that that they had a lion’s roar. No matter the size of the intruder (deer, raccoon, vulture, or mailman) they never hesitated to spring into action and give the target a good chase (or barking from the window). No matter the battles or problems that arise in our lives we are never too small or too weak to overcome them. And if all else fails, call for backup, hide behind your owner’s leg, and growl menacingly.
Enjoy the ride.
Life is not about the destination; it’s about the ride. When dogs go for car rides, they stick their heads out of the window and let their ears and tongue flap in the wind. They look absolutely ridiculous but they don’t care. Most of the time they don’t even care where they’re going (unless it’s to the vet). In life, goals are important but we often forget to enjoy the ride. When we are too focused on the results we often get frustrated or angry if our expectations are not instantly met. Instead of focusing on the straight path to your goal, accept that sometimes there are detours and roadblocks.
Accept yourself.
You never see a poodle wishing she were a collie. They accept that others around them are different and they are okay with who they are. If others treat them with respect, most of the times so will they. Humans naturally see the flaws in ourselves whether they may be physical or internal. Instead of changing our appearance and working to fix our flaws, we should accept ourselves and other’s uniqueness. Dogs aren’t perfect and they don’t try to be. Dogs accept and still love you when you get mad and yell at them. Likewise, you get over it (or learn to accept it) when they pee on the floor with excitement upon seeing you. Everyone has flaws, so you should accept yourself—both the good and the less than perfect parts.
Food is never your enemy.
A dog could have just finished a whole bowl of kibble, but when you bring out the popcorn for movie night he’s suddenly STARVING again. You don’t (and shouldn’t) eat until you can’t move or feel your face (like dogs), but as long as you have a balanced diet, a treat or snack (or two) can never hurt.
Live in the moment.
Whether chasing a furry intruder, scarfing down food, or fetching a ball, dogs always live in the moment. The past is done, the future is unknown, all that is left is the here and now. What you do or say here and now can change your life. Happiness is enjoying the little things to the fullest, whether it is the warm sunny day, driving with windows down and music up, or the company of good friends.
Love, above all else.
The greatest trait a dog has is the ability to love their family/master with unconditional love that surpasses their instincts. You are the number one priority in their life and always will be. A dog sees the worst and the best of you and still loves and protects you. You may yell at your dog and he or she really doesn’t understand why, but with one smile or pat on the head all is forgiven. Humans forgive, but we tend to hold onto the negative feelings for a long time. Over time these feelings can build up and eventually surface, creating resentment and anger toward the person. Dogs understand we say and do things we often don’t mean, and as long as their humans aren’t mad at them and they are eating well, life is good.
