11 Things Dogs Have Taught Me

I was watching the trailer for A Dog's Purpose, which you can find here, the other day and it was so cute I may have cried. It seriously gave me the feels because I have always been a “dog mom” to my three dogs. No one really tells you how hard it is to say goodbye to your "baby." I suppose you get a glimpse of how hard it is for your parents to let you leave them when you go to college because you no longer have constant access to your pride, joy, and best friend. But, I know that I will always have my dogs with me as they have taught me so many valuable things to practice throughout life.

1. Constant sleep is important in maintaining a content disposition.

Dogs are constantly napping. How else would they have the energy to be the lively best friends anyone could have? Dogs know best...sleep helps you understand things more thoroughly and helps you function so much better throughout the day.

2. How to deal with annoying people.

My dogs put up with us talking in annoying voices, insisting that they take our kisses and hugs, and forcing them to cuddle with us even when we don't want to; their patience and ability to get over how annoying we can be is truly inspiring.

3. Be protective over the ones that you love.

My dogs are so protective over me that they practically don't stop barking any time someone new comes over until they approve of them because they just want the best for their owners. As it should be with your friends and family in life.

4. Enjoy the outdoors.

Dogs have no distractions keeping them from appreciating the world around them. They get happiness from being able to play outside with people and other dogs that they love without having to worry about how many likes their last photo on Instagram got.

5. How to forgive.

When my dog finds out I was fraternizing with other ones, or if I don’t take him on car ride when he really wants to come…he’s mad for basically a minute. He may even leave a special present on the carpet for us if he is really mad. Then he is totally fine again and greets me with open arms. It is important to not keep grudges over small things that make you angry.

6. Loyalty

Out of my three dogs, my chihuahua is the one that I have had the longest. He is 13 years old and has had my back ever since we got him when I was six. Even when I leave him for vacation or college, he is always there when I need him.

7. Sharing is caring.

My bed has also become my dog's bed; and he has taught me how to give him more blanket even when I am freezing because I care about him and am willing to make sacrifices to ensure that he is happy.

8. Express your desires openly.

Anytime my dog wants to go outside, he'll stand by the door and bark until I open it. Open communication about what you want in any relationship is crucial.

9. How to be responsible.

Taking care of a dog teaches you how to be responsible for someone other than yourself. Their well being completely relies on you and subsequently forces you to learn how to make social and monetary life choices that will benefit the both of you.

10. Don't take life too seriously.

It's okay to do something stupid or make mistakes every now and then.

11. And lastly, really enjoy eating your food.