Dogs are, without a doubt, incredible animals who have made this world a much better place. These animals are our friends, companions, and "fur babies," but most of all, they are family. Some people consider dogs to just be pets who are not really worth a lot of time, and that is a shame. I know several dogs who have better manners than most people. Over the course of a few years, I have had the amazing opportunity to work with dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments at my workplace of Woofer's. This job has taught me responsibility, how to be a part of a team, leadership skills, and so much more. Apart from that, the dogs that I am surrounded by each and every day have also taught me lessons that I will remember forever.
1. Love Unconditionally
In the world today, it is hard to find genuine love. Whether it be family, friends, or your life partner, love can be a deceiving thing. More often than not, people overuse the word, misuse it, and abuse its meaning. An amazing characteristic of a dog is they show true love towards their human. The way they look at their leader is beyond inspiring, and one cannot help but feel truly cared for by them. Dogs want to constantly be in their owner's presence because they enjoy their company and honestly just adore their leader.
2. Be Quick To Forgive
Life is too short to dwell on negative things. We are always quick to judge, but never forgive. Forgiveness is an important action that most of us forget to do, but it would allow us the chance to move on with happiness. Everyone has bad days, and yelling at your dog for no reason could result from it. Maybe he would not stop barking, or took too long outside, which resulted in him getting yelled at. Soon enough after that, he is running back to you with a smile on his face because he understands and forgives you. Dogs do not hold onto grudges or reside in the past.
3. Enjoy The Simple Things
Life is not about a few huge events, but it is about a million simple pleasures. Whether it be a sunny day, no heavy traffic when you are running late, or even a day off from work , those "little things" can mean so much. Dogs think that getting a bone or a belly rub makes for the perfect day! They love life and the simple pleasures that come along with it.
4. Never Give Up
Setting and achieving goals is a huge part of life and something that should be completed with determination and perseverance. Getting our dream job or saving up for a car are only a couple of examples of goals that can be achieved with hardwork. Dogs do not give up easily because they are so determined and strong-willed. They teach us to have patience and to keep digging until we find what we want.
5. Do Not Judge
Our world is filled with harsh words, rude stares, and judgmental attitudes. I have never understood the point in judging someone you do not even know, or even someone who you are close with. Dogs do not care about someone's size, race, gender, and so on. They see past all of the above and focus on the personality and character that lies behind all of that.
6. Be Loyal
Loyalty is a characteristic that we all strive for in our lives. We want someone to be there for us through thick and thin, and dogs are an amazing example of being loyal. They are there for us when we are happy, sad, or going through a life-altering event. They are our shoulder to cry on and our diary that we tell all our secrets to.
7. Live For The Moment
Life is too short to live it rushed and not enjoy the little things in life. Dogs do not dwell on the past or worry about the future. They live in the moment and enjoy the life they are living. We often lose chances when we reside in what happened yesterday or what we hope will happen tomorrow. Live life for the moment because everything else is uncertain.
8. Follow Your Instinct
Everyone gets that "gut feeling" every now and then when it comes to making a decision or being in a certain situation. We should learn to listen to that feeling better because we often second guess ourselves which leads to something we may not want. Dogs naturally have this nature about them where they get this feeling when something is about to happen or when they need to protect their pack. They teach us to always trust what lies within us, and not always trust those around us.
