No one said owning a dog was a cakewalk. Having a beagle, a dog breed noted to be one of the naughtiest of all, I can’t help but agree that the responsibility heap is a large one indeed. From nights of restless barking to constant pawing on the doors for another pee-walk, to large heartwarming eyes suggesting something a little more than just innocence, living with a beagle has been an experience on its own. But that’s not to say she hasn’t made my life a more joyous ride. So when this furry little puppy landed in my house with a handful of tail-wags and excited pants, I couldn’t have been more elated. Four years later, my bond and love for her has only increased more. Here are ten reasons why having a dog has been and is so amazing:
1. Dog walks are therapeutic.
Running behind cats together is a euphoric feeling. Running like that through the rains or the wind is even better. Whether you’re sprinting across the grass or strolling through cars while your dog sniffs cars like a resolute detective, just the feeling of accompanying your canine while they have their happy time makes you joyful. (Let’s not forget the look on their face (and yours) as they finish a big dump!)
2. Sharing a meal was never more fun.
Unlike people, a beagle will not complain about unsavory the food may be. This makes eating together a fun time indeed; their excited gobbling and the sound of an empty, moving bowl will only remind you of how nice it feels to have fed someone a healthy, satisfying meal.
3. An extra pillow makes the bed more comfy.
What else would you need on chilly winter days besides a warm dog to snuggle with? (Oops, you may just get kicked out of your own bed!)
4. True attention and loyalty is a certainty.
Your dog is probably the only one in this world who will give you pure, never-ending attention without asking for anything in return. Meanwhile, their attempts to grab your attention or appreciation (no, please don’t hide my slippers and socks under your bed!) can turn out to be the most endearing thing ever.
5. The feeling of being considered a best buddy by a dog can’t get better.
Being welcomed home by crazy jumping and thrilled barks reminds you of how special you are to them. This is the probably the only time being tackled to the ground feels hugely acceptable.
6. Your music never annoys them.
Loud music? Classic rock? Taylor Swift? Your dog doesn’t care: all they’re looking out for is a time to enjoy with you while you have fun. So next time you pump up the music, remember to dance along with your dog as well- of course, video recording is an added bonus!
7. Selfies become a thousand times more enjoyable.
Speaking of video recording, your social media is probably flooded with pictures of something your dog did, or their ears, their expressions, or even their whiskers for all you know. And no matter how good or bad a poser your dog is (all dogs are photogenic, no kidding), one thing’s for sure: a photograph just gets so much better with your dog in it!
8. Making them feel happy makes you feel happier.
Spotting even the slightest tail wag can get your happiness index higher up on the scale. Because let’s face it: nothing makes you happier than seeing your dog happy. (Yes, Coco, you can go chase the birds now!)
9. Watching them socialize with other dogs is a movie by itself.
Seeing your dog mingle around seamlessly with just a round of sniffing and ear-perking gets you to wonder why it couldn’t be the same way with us humans. Not only is it entertaining, but you also start to silently pair your dog up with another and think of how cute they’d look together (you’ve done this, don’t deny it!)
10. They love you no matter what you do.
Yes. (Even if you take them for that occasional bath.)
Your dog loves you. Unconditionally. They seek to impress you, trust you, and be by your side always. And I’m certain it works the other way around too.
This small brown dog called Coco has made my life so much more colorful and lively than it was that it’s crazy to imagine what it would be like without her.
Clichéd but nonetheless true, a dog is truly a man’s best friend.
