When I first got my dog 10 years ago, he was a 3-month-old puppy who didn't know any better. He chewed everything in sight, ate some cellphones, and had an accident or two. As I look back on his life, I realized that although he learned from me, I learned from him too.
1. Never hold a grudge.
Dogs may destroy everything when they're puppies and they crouch in fear when they get scolded. But after the yelling is over, they are happier than ever. It doesn't matter what happened a few minutes before. All that matters is the present and that they love you.
2. Love unconditionally.
Dogs have a way of showing their love and affection to their owners no matter what happens. They will be the first to run to the door and greet you, the first to wake you up in the morning, and the last to lay with you before you go to sleep. Dogs don't care about how much money you have or how nice your house is. All they are about is the person you are inside, and will give you the utmost love.
3. It's okay to have fun.
No matter how tired they are, dogs are always up for an adventure. Whether it's a game of fetch or swimming in the lake. They're good reminders to find the happy moments in life and take advantage of them. It doesn't matter how old you are, a dog will always find a way to bring out the inner child in you.
4. Protect the ones you love.
Whether it's the mailman, a wild animal outside, or a stranger near the house, dogs will always protect you. Their size or strength of their bark doesn't matter to them. If someone they love is in danger, they will do anything to protect them. Dogs teach us to remain courageous and stand up for someone when they're being picked on.
5. Stop and smell the roses.
While on a walk, dogs will sniff every single scent they pick up. They're always up for exploring new things and embracing the world around them. People tend to get so caught up in their daily tasks of life that they don't have time to stop and appreciate the world around them. Dogs teach us to embrace everything we come across.
There are so many things dogs can teach us. They love unconditionally, enjoy life, protect the ones they love, and most importantly, love you more than anything. Their owner is the light of their life, and it is time to be the person your dog knows you can be.
