I have a confession to make. I was never really an animal lover growing up. So when my family went on a journey to find the perfect rescue dog for our home, I steered clear. Then they brought our little guy, Bandit, home. Although it took me some time to warm up to him, I eventually grew to love him in ways I didn't think were possible. I've learned a lot about the relationship between human and dog in the three years since his adoption. Here are some things you'll learn when you befriend man's best friend.
1. You'll develop a really weird voice when you talk to your dog.
You could be screaming at your sibling one minute, then talking to your dog in some weird, high-pitched baby voice the next. I don't know how or why this happens, it just does. So prepare yourself for some embarrassing moments when you're out in public with your dog or some mockery from family and friends.
2. Dogs love to have fun!
I know it's hard, but try to stop taking pictures and videos of them playing and actually play with them! Grab a ball, a Frisbee, or a stick and play some fetch. Or grab a rope toy and play some tug-of-war! They love to play with you, and there's a good chance they love it because they think you love it too!
3. Dogs also love to sleep.
Dogs need to sleep 10 hours a day. Factor in all that running around and playing they do, and they can get pretty sleepy! So when they cuddle up in a little ball and finally doze off, let them be! I know it's so hard, since they look like precious little angels from the heavens when they're sleeping. And when they have a dream that they're running and their legs twitch? Adorable! But try your best to keep your paws off when they're snoozing!
4. They'll act like your own personal 24/7 security guard.
My dog once ran outside and started barking at a traffic cone because he thought it would attack us. Sometimes they'll protect you from silly things, like squirrels, cats, and cars. And sometimes no noise in your house will go unnoticed. But it's always nice to know you'll never be home alone with your buddy by your side.
5. It's perfectly okay to spoil them!
When you first bring your furry friend home, you'll want to do everything by the books. This dog is pretty much your child, you have to raise him or her right! But pretty soon, "No table food!" becomes, "I saved the dog a hunk of steak for his dinner tonight!" And, "No laying on the furniture!" becomes, "Seriously, buddy, you have to move over a little so I can sit too!" And don't forget about all the cute sweaters you can buy for the dog (even though they're mostly for your enjoyment)!
6. Each dog has a different personality.
Very similar to humans, no dogs are alike. You'll find that some dogs are hyper and always ready to go, whereas some dogs are more relaxed and calm. Some dogs are goofy, some are extra friendly, and some are a little shy. However, no matter what the personality is, all dogs are lovable!
7. You'll miss your dog when you're away from home...
Before you leave the house, you'll recite a long goodbye message to your pup, and you'll simply say "bye" to anyone else. Whether you'll only be gone for a few minutes, or you live away from your dog while attending school or work, your dog will be on your mind. I have rushed home from school before because I didn't want my dog to be alone for too long. It's hard to be away from such a loving being for any amount of time.
8. … But your dog will be extremely excited when you come back!
Sometimes your dog will be the most excited out of anyone to see you. They'll charge at you full speed, and if they're big enough, they'll even knock you over. And oh so many kisses! It's like your dog hasn't seen you in years, and this is the most beautiful reunion in your life so far.
9. Dogs are the personification of unconditional love.
Love can mean many things, and it can be carried out in many ways. But there isn't anything that really compares to the love a dog can give. A dog's love is purely unconditional. There is no judgement, no rules, no limits, no "I love you, but…" With a dog, there is only, "I love you! I love you! I love you!"
10. Celebrating their milestones is important.
If you adopt a dog, there's a good chance their actual date of birth is unknown. But you could always make one up for them! Or you can celebrate "Gotcha Day," a day to remember when you first brought them home into your family. The truth is, this dog is now an integral part of your family. You wouldn't forget to celebrate a family member's special day, so don't forget to celebrate for your dog.
11. Above all, cherish your time with your dog.
Sadly, dogs do not live forever. I remember reading somewhere that a little boy justified this fact by saying that dogs already know what love and happiness are, so their lives are complete; dogs are put on earth to teach humans love and happiness. So cherish your time with your pup. Every snuggle, every game of fetch, every morning wake up call, every stare down at dinner, cherish it. Love your dog with all your might.
I don't know what humans did to deserve dogs. I do know that owning a dog opens your heart up to a different kind of love, and it really is amazing. Please remember that dogs are a responsibility and should be taken care of as such. It's not okay to keep a dog for a few days and then send them off to a shelter because you decided owning a dog wasn't for you. Also, adopt! So many shelter doggies need your love and care, and I'm sure they have so much love to offer!
Adopt, don't shop!
